Nordic style baths are one of the biggest trends in spas across North America. We went to the Scandinave Spa in beautiful Mont-Tremblant, Quebec to try out the hydrotherapy focused spa. 

If you find yourself in the Mont-Tremblant area and you’re more après ski inclined then ski bunny, a visit to the Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant is a must. Nestled on the edge of the Rivière du Diable, the nordic-like spa which includes saunas, steam rooms and cold and hot baths provide a complete relaxation in a calm and natural setting. 

The spa’s been open since 1999, and although it’s seen many upgrades over the years the most recent reno was pretty major. At the start of 2018 they officially opened the new facilities. The upgrades include a massive infinity edge hot tub complete with thermal waterfall, an additional dry sauna, steam bath and cold pool.  

Over family day long weekend I found myself in the area hitting the slopes, but after two days on the hill my muscles were moaning and my inner spa hound was howling to go to Scandinavia Spa Mont-Tremblant. So I did!

Image courtesy of Scandinave

#Goal: To slow down, detox, relax my sore muscles and reach a full on blissed out state of zen.

The treatment: My partner and I arrived at the spa moments after our last run on the mountain, aka we were rushing, to make it in time for our treatments. We both opted for the deep tissue massage. In order to use the baths you don’t need to book a treatment, however it’s recommended. They also offer Swedish, therapeutic, duo and prenatal massages.

I’m pretty active, and currently training for a marathon, so my muscles are in a constant state of pain. The massage was expertly done by a registered massage therapist. Although I do prefer a firm pressure my masseuse’s pressure was a little lighter then what I am use to, however, she had magic fingers and released tensions in my back and legs. I immediately felt more limber post treatment.

Next, we hit the baths. The staff recommended to try the classic Finnish way. Meaning cycling through the hot tubes, then cold dip, followed by some relaxation in one of the saunas. Following this protocol has proven to be both energizing and relaxing for the body, improving blood circulation and activating the lymphatic system to help detoxification. I’m here to say believe the hype, it was wonderful, especially being surrounded by a winter wonderland.  We even saw a few dear on the river while peeking out over the edge of one of the hot tubes. I mean…

One of the highlights was a cold pool cut out of the ice in the Rivière du Diable. The temperature was only 2°C, after my crazy partner did it, being the competitive person I am I promptly followed. I got to say, it felt cold (obviously) but invigorating. Post dip, we quickly made our way into a dry sauna to warm up. 

Image courtesy of Scandinave

The result: Have you heard of the Danish term hygge (pronounced hue-guh)? The word is used to acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, charming or special. It only requires a conscious appreciation, a certain slowness, and the ability to not just be present–but recognize and enjoy the present. In all honestly I’ve never been to a place, until now, that evokes the feelings of hygge to this degree. I felt cozy, relaxing and we both felt very happy after. 

The cost: Bath access, $60 | 60 minute massage and bath access (depending on massage) $150-$160 | 120 minutes massage and bath access (depending on massage) $240-$260. scandinave.com