If you are seeking ultimate relaxation and bliss, make sure to check out Scandinave Spa in Whistler. The Nordic inspired spa features a collection of thermal baths, cold plunge pools, a eucalyptus steam room, a Finnish sauna and relaxation areas designed to detoxify your body, lift your spirits and quiet your mind. I recently enjoyed an evening at Scandinave with a good friend and couldn’t help but feel so grateful that this blissful experience is right in my own backyard.
The spa itself is situated amongst cedar and spruce forests, only a few minutes by car north of Whistler Village. After meandering through a wooded path the spa building awaited, invitingly perched above the luminescent steam baths. After arriving at the spa and handed a robe and towel, we were given a quick briefing on the traditional sequence of the baths to get the most out of the healing effects. Bath guests are encouraged to spend 10-15 minutes in a warm bath, sauna or steam room, followed by a quick 10 second dip in a cold plunge pool and finally a 10-15 minute rest in one of the relaxation areas. This sequence is then to be repeated 3-4 times, or until the spa closes which happened in our case. Finally, guests are advised that the baths are a silent area, something I thought would be challenging however once in a state of quiet relaxation I was grateful for the silence as words would have distracted from the beautiful refuge.
The Scandinave Spa is a perfect place to unwind and rest sore muscles after a day on the mountain. Not only does the spa feature the incredible outdoor baths but there is also a menu of massages for those looking for a little extra. The bath experience, also known as hydrotherapy, has amazing healing benefits such as cleansing the body, circulating the blood and releasing endorphins. The use of water temperatures in contrast has been practiced for centuries as a way to eliminate toxins, decrease inflammation and stimulate circulation. I can certainly attest to the invigoration of the experience and after 2 hours of going from hot, to cold to relax I felt completely rejuvenated and effortlessly at ease.
Not only is Scandinave Spa an oasis for health and wellbeing it is also an eco spa existing in harmony with the natural surroundings. Guests as Scandinave will feel poised amongst nature gazing out from the forest at spectacular mountain vistas and valleys. The spa prides itself on using sustainable fibres and products and has a ‘green’ roof which supports efficient heating, cooling and insulation. The spa also has a lovely café which stocks healthy, local food to enjoy before or after a treatment.
I am certainly going to incorporate Scandinave Spa into my ongoing health and wellness routine. If you haven’t tried Scandinave yet, I encourage you to treat yourself to this wonderful experience. A local’s tip is to get your hands on a Whistler Adventure Passport which has tons of savings on Whistler dining, retail, tours and attractions including Scandinave Spa. The book costs $25 which you will make up in no time with the amount you will save; you can save $8.50 alone on a bath access pass with an Adventure Passport. If you have been to Scandinave before look out for the spa expansion which is set to open soon. Treat yourself to a Scandinave Spa experience and make sure to get your hands on a Whistler Adventure Passport for some great savings!