by Anne Dimon,
Of the short list of spas that embody the ‘Canadian spa experience,’ Nordik Spa Nature in the village of Chelsea, Quebec – an easy 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa – rates among the top three.
At 145,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, Nordik is now the largest day spa in North America.
While the original part of the spa (photo above) retains the quiet ambience that has prevailed since Le Nordik opened in 2005, the newer part of the spa is more conducive to socializing – talking and enjoying a glass of wine and tapas.
In addition to the pools, saunas, relaxation areas, a restaurant plus a lounge serving beverages and snacks, there are 28 treatment rooms. Treatments are therapeutic in nature and are limited to massages plus a few body, face and foot care treatment. There are no manicures and pedicures.
While Nordik is officially considered a “day spa” there is one lodge on the property that sleeps a group of up to 12 in a beautiful rustic ambience with all the modern conveniences. It’s the perfect setting for a Girls’ Getaway.
For local activities beyond taking-the-waters, a Hike and Spa offer includes a 60-minute hike along the groomed trails of Gatineau Park – a two minute drive from Le Nordik – followed by “the baths.” Another local activity is visiting the handful of nearby shops and restaurants in the quaint village of Chelsea. We recommend you give yourself at least two hours to enjoy the full benefits of the water circuit, longer if you plan to enjoy a meal, take a hike or visit the town. More on Le Nordik