Alberta, Canada’s picturesque Kananaskis and its superb Kananskis Nordic Spa is a secret I can’t keep. If you’re seeking a relaxing wellness getaway with plenty of awe-inspiring nature at your doorstep, this is it!
Location
Situated in the Canadian Rocky Mountain wilderness, Kananaskis Village is an hour’s drive west of Calgary in the province of Alberta. This gem holds very special memories for me – during university, I spent a summer working at the front desk and in room service at the CP Hotels & Resorts’ Lodge at Kananaskis, now named Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.
So, it was surreal for me returning there recently to a transformed hotel whose neighboring forest is now home to the soothing, rusti- chic Kananaskis Nordic Spa.
Designed to evoke peace and rejuvenation, this alpine sanctuary offers a hydrotherapy circuit with the mantra: hot, cold, rest, repeat.
Amenities
In addition to massages, the spacious outdoor tree-fringed facilities includes the following:
- Hot pools
- Saunas
- Barrel saunas
- Steam rooms
- Cold plunge pool
- Hammocks
- Fire cauldrons
- Exfoliation cabin
The cold plunge pool was super refreshing with the steam rooms and saunas providing a great contrast! Plus, the exfoliation cabin was a unique feature.
Silence isn’t expected, which is great if you’re visiting with someone. But, if you’re seeking a more tranquil experience, I’d recommend the stellar Scandinave Spa Whistler, north of Vancouver, which I shared with you in a previous post.
Wellness Benefits
So, what’s the value in spending several hours and dollars on a visit to this decompression zone? According to science: plenty.
- Saunas and hot pools can be beneficial for your heart, with Finnish saunas specifically shown to reduce the risk of conditions such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory issues. They may also help alleviate musculoskeletal disorders, while enhancing mental well-being, sleep, and longevity.
- Steam baths can improve circulation, reduce inflammation as well as muscle tension.
- When you brave the cold plunges, you’re activating your immune system and helping to reduce muscle damage from exercise, leading to reduced inflammation and soreness.
Plus, the serene environment is ideal for breathwork, reflection, meditation, or prayer.
A small, chill restaurant on-site called Two Trees Bistro features such nutritious dishes as the Two Trees Buddha Bowl, Vegetable Bone Broth and Artisan Greens.
Kananaskis Conservation Pass
A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for each vehicle. The first Wednesday of the month is free as well as a few other days throughout the year which are listed on their website. Purchase the pass on-line, at some of the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centres or the Canmore Nordic Centre Day Lodge.
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PS – The Kananaskis Nordic Spa made a cameo appearance in my video, Banff Wellness Getaway below.
I’m thankful you dropped by and I wish you a wonderful day!
