By Erin Nicole Davis
Under the towering peaks of Western Canada’s mountains, the iconic Fairmont Hotel & Resort brand rolled out some notable new wellness offerings at three of its properties. These high-profile developments represent a significant shift toward immersive, destination-scale facilities that go well beyond the traditional spa. From a sprawling, standalone thermal sanctuary in Lake Louise to a high-concept urban retreat in Vancouver and a guided luxury ritual in Jasper, these latest additions from Fairmont set a new benchmark for upscale relaxation in the Canadian West. And the scenery isn’t too shabby, either.
BASIN Glacial Waters at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
The most significant wellness-focused development is found at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which unveiled BASIN Glacial Waters in September 2025. This 19,000-square-foot standalone thermal sanctuary, designed by AD100 architect Matteo Thun, is built directly into the mountain’s granite shelf and represents the pinnacle of a multi-year redevelopment. The facility is centered on the power of contrast bathing, featuring a signature Aufguss Sauna where “sauna masters” perform theatrical ceremonies using essential-oil-infused steam and rhythmic towel-waving. Guests follow curated trails through the amenities — for example, the Stillness Trail for nervous system regulation or the Presence Trail for circadian resets — through Finnish saunas, Himalayan salt rooms, and an outdoor infinity vitality pool that juts out toward the iconic Victoria Glacier (the main reason for the lake’s famous turquoise color). To maintain an elite and uncrowded atmosphere, spa access is currently exclusive to overnight guests.
The Glacial Plunge & Sauna at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge has leaned into the resilience travel trend with the November introduction of the Glacial Plunge & Sauna. This year-round guided ritual is a 60-minute ceremony of thermal extremes, moving guests from the dry, aromatic heat of a lakeside barrel sauna into an invigorating cold plunge in the mineral-rich waters of Lac Beauvert. Facilitated by certified guides, the experience integrates guided breathwork and recovery touches like neroli facial mists and lavender cooling cloths. The experience is a sophisticated take on traditional Nordic contrast therapy, designed to leave guests with a sense of clarity and mental grounding.
The Spa Soleá at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver has introduced a refined urban tranquility with the opening of Spa Soleá in late December 2025. Spanning 6,000 square feet, the sanctuary utilizes organic textures and natural finishes to mirror the serenity of the Pacific Northwest. While the menu features signature experiences including the Lavender Cocoon Wrap, the 2026 standout is the Hammam Skin Ritual, a restorative ceremony rooted in Middle Eastern bathing culture that has been reimagined for a West Coast audience. This opening bridges the gap for Vancouver’s elite travelers while the Fairmont Pacific Rim undergoes its own “Next-Gen” transformation, with its main spa facilities scheduled for a high-tech reveal in May 2026.
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Erin Nicole Davis is a Toronto-based travel writer and regular contributor to Travel to Wellness.
