Scandinavia in Canada

 

Cool off in Nordic waterfalls to strengthen the immune system

 

In the quiet hills of British Columbia, six buildings spread over three acres form Scandinave Spa Whistler, which will open next month. Surrounded by Western Red cedar and spruce trees, the Nordic-style all-season spa is just a mile from Whistler Village, but worlds away from the stress and aggravation of everyday life.

The massage pavilion has 12 single-bed treatment rooms and five duo-bed treatment rooms. All rooms have windows overlooking Mount Sproatt.

Several options are available, depending on each guest’s needs. The three-stage Scandinavian Baths experience cleanses the body and skin, helps improves blood circulation and physical and aerobic conditioning to promote relaxation. First, guests warm up in a eucalyptus steam bath or wood-burning Finnish sauna to open pores, stimulate blood circulation and release toxins; then they cool off in the Nordic waterfalls, cold baths or shower to close the pores and strengthen the immune system. Finally, they can relax in a solarium or unwind on one of the terraces with outdoor fireplace to allow the cardiovascular system to regulate itself and blood circulation to decrease.

Massages at Scandinave Spa

Massages at Scandinave Spa Whistler range from the Duo Swedish to Thai-yoga

 

Guests can choose either the Scandinavian Baths experience or a Baths and Massage Package, such as Swedish or Duo Swedish massage, sports massage, Thai-yoga massage and hot volcanic stone massage.

While time will tell what the most popular treatments are, and who the most popular therapists will be, two of the most popular packages at other Scandinave spas are the Authentic Package (approximately $92) and the Soft Adventure Package (approximately $152). The former comes with Scandinavian baths, healthy lunch, stainless-steel water bottle and a gift package of body-care products. The latter includes access to the baths, Swedish massage, healthy lunch, sandals, stainless-steel water bottle and a gift package of body-care products.

Scandinave Spa Whistler can accommodate groups of up to 150, but does not offer full spa buyouts. If a large group would like the full use of the baths, they must arrive at 9:30 a.m., prior to the spa opening at 10 a.m. The 17 treatment rooms, however, can be booked in advance for groups, and are ideal for a wedding party.

Nice eco-touch: The spa has been designed to minimize its environmental impact on the nature that surrounds it. All bags are reusable; water bottles are made of stainless steel rather than plastic; and all technologies used at the complex are eco-friendly.

Annique Aird (604-935-2424, [email protected]) is the general manager. Travel agents should contact Elissa Mulligan (604-935-2424, [email protected]), sales and marketing coordinator.