This Nordic Spa Is Changing Up Its Scandinavian Tradition
Updated: Sep. 10, 2018
By adding a twist of Canadiana.
Looking for a Nordic spa experience, eh? Calgary has you covered.
Leave it to the folks in the Canadian Rockies to come up with a concept that takes the best of the traditional offerings and creates a uniquely Canuck-focused experience. The brand-new Kananaskis Nordic Spa — about an hour outside of Calgary — is part of the recently renovated Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, an Autograph Collection hotel.
The spa is a jewel nestled in the heart of the mountains and pine forests of Alberta, says Jennifer Buckler, vice president of spa & development: “We’ve taken the philosophy and practices of Nordic wellness, and created an original design. This is a space that reflects not only our location, but the Canadian way of life; a different take on the increasingly popular Nordic spa style of repair, relaxation and rejuvenation.”
You’ll find the Canadiana in the details: think campfire settings for social interaction; red tartan robes instead of white terry cloth; and a licensed bistro that offers a good selection of beers.
And, if you’re a spa purist who only wants the water experience, you won’t be disappointed.
The spa comes complete with a series of hot, saltwater, and cold plunge pools. There are three different sauna types: a barrel sauna, banya sauna and Finnish sauna, as well as a eucalyptus and alchemist steam cabin infused with select aromatherapy oils. Heaven! The exfoliation cabin — a space inspired by the traditional Turkish hammam — houses a selection of salts for self-exfoliation of the skin. Learn how to recreate your own Turkish hammam at home.
Drive up from Calgary for the day, or stay on the premises.
Room options start at the basic double queen and go up to luxury executive suites. There’s also plenty of on-site food options, including Blacktail Bar (you have to try the Brant Lake Wagyu House Burger); Market Café, a grab-and-go shop that offers Starbucks coffee; or the main dining room, Forte, that caters to all taste buds. Decided to stay in Calgary longer? Here are some more places to check out while you’re in the area.
