A sanctuary of serenity in Quebec

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 05/10/2022 (1385 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

If a sprawling sanctuary of serenity is your cup of tea, then expect to find the entire teapot at Nordik Spa-Nature. Nestled in the Gatineau Hills near Chelsea, Que., just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, the largest spa in North America has been offering relaxation and rejuvenation to locals in the region — and travellers from around the world — since 2005.

The mission of Nordik Spa-Nature is to improve wellness and make a positive difference in people’s lives. They use thermotherapy based on techniques and rituals that first originated in Nordic countries 2,000 years ago. The practice of a thermal spa is to engage in purifying cycles that alternate hot and cold temperatures, followed by rest. The benefits are believed to be vast for both physical and mental health, with immediate and cumulative results.

For the physical body, thermotherapy improves circulation and digestion, stimulates the immune system, eliminates toxins, accelerates healing, and encourages better sleeping. On the psychological side, it reduces tension, encourages relaxation, improves memory and clarity, and enhances peace of mind.

I first visited Nordik Spa-Nature 10 years ago, before returning in 2022. It was even better than I remembered this time around. Utilizing the elements of wood, stone, water and fire, the setting and decor here is infused with a welcoming warmth. There are 10 distinctly different outdoor baths, nine unique saunas, numerous fire pits, and lots of places to lounge and relax. Each of the four onsite restaurants serves exquisite cuisine made from fresh local ingredients, making it easy to replenish with a nourishing meal during your spa day.

The multi-level rocky landscape is thoughtfully designed with solitude in mind. There are hammocks, hanging chairs, giant beanbags, and oversized cushions. Lawn chairs circle fireplaces in gazebos, and beach loungers line the simulated sandy beach complete with the sound of ocean waves. Indoors you can recline with musical headphones, stretch out on hot marble slabs, or nap on mats.

Other features include aromatic steam rooms, exfoliation room, yoga and meditation room, and outdoor massage pavilions. There are waterfalls to play in, and a peaceful infinity pool that provides a spectacular view of the lush valley below, especially at sunset.

The most memorable experience of all, though, has to be Källa — a large saltwater flotation pool dug five metres down into the rocky ground. With 10 tons of Epsom salt dissolved in 1,200 cubic feet of water, and the air temperature calibrated to match body and water temperature, this magical subterranean setting invites you to experience weightlessness and timelessness with zero resistance. It allows you to drift away in the dimly-lit underground grotto where the Zen is real, all worries have disappeared, and everything is one and the same.

Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea is owned by the same parent company, Groupe Nordik, as Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature in Winnipeg (the only Nordic spa on the Canadian prairies), and the brand new Thermëa Spa Village in Whitby, Ont. They continue to innovate and evolve their spa offerings with enchanting sites in naturally wooded havens, all with easy access to urban areas.

Groupe Nordik plans to open additional locations in coming years, bringing their extraordinary experience to even more spa-seekers across Canadians. Lucky for us.