by Anne Dimon
Spa Eastman, in the heart of Quebec’s rural Eastern Townships about an hour’s drive from downtown Montreal, is an ideal choice when the plan is to simply spend time reconnecting with ones’ self.
Quebec’s premiere spa for the last 40 years, Spa Eastman is literally carved out of the bush. The wilds of nature marry beautifully with meticulously groomed English gardens and a collection of cozy modern buildings scattered around the property and housing very comfortable accommodations. In this rural setting, dynamic owner Jocelyna Dubuc has created an idyllic refuge where luxury meets nature.
My daughter, Julia, and I arrive mid-afternoon. At check-in we pick up robes, then head upstairs to our room, one of a handful located in the main building. This large lodge-style pavilion warmly decorated in upscale country is the social centre of this ‘spa village.’ It also houses the treatment rooms, a number of comfortable lounge areas, the dining room, a heated indoor pool, fitness studios, a steam room and meeting rooms for wellness workshops. Our room overlooks a natural pond and Mount Orford beyond.
THINGS TO DO
Optional activities include lounging by the natural pond or outdoor swimming pool, participating is a guided walk, exercise or yoga classes, sitting in on one of the many health and lifestyle-related workshops held daily, or strolling along the groomed trails that wind around this 315-acre property. Another option is simply finding a private place to sit and read or enjoy something many of us don’t have much time for in these busy, stressful days – quiet self-reflection.
Dubuc says even when Spa Eastman is fully booked, it never really feels uncomfortably busy. As we walk the spacious property past beautifully kept gardens, some with trickling fountains, I notice the needs of guests who want moments alone or with a partner have been thoughtfully taken into consideration. In a secluded spot, a swing hangs from the massive arm of an oak tree, in another niche embraced by nature there’s a hammock. Here, a wooden bench overlooks a bed of bright blooms. There, a couple of Andirondack chairs offer those who choose to sit a lovely mountain view.
Along with the setting, another unique feature of Spa Eastman is the healthy spa cuisine. Based on naturopathic needs, meals has nutritious, delicious and artfully presented. ‘Food combinations, says the chef, ‘are also chosen for better digestion.’ During our stay we dined on dishes such as rabbit in a mustard sauce, grilled haddock, baked salmon with a dill sauce and chicken with a tarragon sauce. Between meals there are snacks like fresh fruit and squares made from Verbena said to help digestion and fight anxiety and nervous fatigue.
The spa offers a full range of treatments.
Spa Eastman is an ideal mother/daughter getaway. I also recommend for anyone travelling solo.
For more info go to Spa Eastman