Six top apres ski spas to rejuvenate the body

Scandinave Spa Whistler – is a six-minute drive from Whistler and worth every second in the car. Pull on your swimsuit, wrap-up in a robe and head outside to find the many hot and cold pools to soak in. Follow the hydrotherapy process of soaking in a hot pool for a few minutes, then plunge into a cold pool for a few seconds. Try out the eucalyptus steam room or maybe have a Finnish sauna or visit the thermal waterfall. End your session by relaxing in a hammock or beside a mesmerizing fire. There’re no kids (19+), no cell service, no nothing to take you away from your regeneration. For those really sore knotted muscles check in for a massage.

Nita Lake Lodge – was ranked as one of the top 25 spas in Canada by the Spa Industry Association of Canada and it’s easy to see why. It’s a short walk (or a quick ride on the courtesy shuttle) from the base of Whistler Blackcomb. This holistic winter wellness hideaway offers accommodations and the spa. Roof-top hot tubs are in perfect view of Whistler, so you can soak and recap the day all in one soothing retreat.

Nakiska

Kananaskis Nordic Spa – Only minutes from the base of Nakiska is the brand new Kananaskis Nordic Spa at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Resort (formerly the Delta) and it is dreamy. Open for adults every day from 9am to 9pm daily, it is designed to rejuvenate the body, the soul and the community spirit. The outdoor pools vary in temperatures, all from “melt my sore muscles” to “dang, that is colder than the river!” And the steam rooms and saunas are luxurious with splash buckets or hints of soothing scents. Wrap yourself in the iconic Canadian tartan robe and meet friends at the firepits or rest in a heated hammock. The adjacent lounge area offers light fare to enjoy before repeating the hot/cold cyclic of the Nordic spa experience. This is the best addition to the Kananaskis in many years.

Banff

Banff Upper Hot Springs ­– Stop in at the mineral springs that started it all. The Banff Upper Hot Springs were instrumental in opening the west to rich folks who travelled by train from the east to experience the mountains. The mineral-rich waters were said to sooth everything from arthritis to shyness. (Kidding on the shyness – did you see the crazy bathing suits of the day?) Feel your body melt with every step into the soothing naturally hot water of the historic spa. Tip your head back and let the snowflakes melt on your heat flushed face as you soak. It’s only then you realize that “ahhh” you hear is actually coming from you. Let the minerals relax those aching muscles as you plan tomorrow’s adventures. Then try a massage at the adjacent Pleiades Massage to extend the benefits. If you forget your swim suit, be a trendsetter (or would that be a re-trendsetter?) and rent one of the historic swim suits.

Willow Stream Spa – Since you are in Banff, stop at the “Castle in the Rockies” and plunge into the soothing pools at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Rundle rock surrounds you in this cavernous escape. Stand under the mini-waterfalls to massage those weary shoulders or drift in the mineral pool. Slip outside to the hot tub and relax while admiring the views.

Nelson

Ainsworth Hot Springs – Years and years ago, after a day of hunting and fishing, the Ktunaxa First Nations peoples would soak in the hot waters of the pools and caves of the Ainsworth Hot Springs in the Kootenay region. Today, after fighting (or loving) the powder at Whitewater Ski Resort near Nelson, pop in the car for a quick drive to Anisworth Hot Springs to soak your weary bones. You’ll be so glad you did.

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