The sign said sanitas per aquam: Health through water. (The original meaning of the word “spa.”) We thought we should put this theory to the test (all in the name of research, of course).
Upon entering Scandinave - Les Bains, a 12,000 square foot sanctuary from the spa experts at Le Scandinave, we were blown away. This beautiful new retreat in Old Montreal serves up ancient therapeutics with contemporary design. One senses the space was carved from a hillside, with curved lines and natural stone complemented by IPE wood and waterfalls.
The two-hour Scandinavian bath ($42) was energizing yet relaxing. First, the body temperature is raised (via either eucalyptus steam bath, Finnish sauna or hydro-jet baths) causing profuse sweating that cleanses the skin. Then the pores are closed under the cold Nordic waterfall. Finally, relax in the ZeroStress room or spacious lounge. (Repeat several cycles for optimum benefits.)
The baths also come with massage packages. We couldn’t decide between the Icelandic package ($155) with hot stone therapy and the luxurious Baltic package ($175) with 75-minute exfoliation massage. The Duo Swedish package ($216) would make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.
Guess we’ll just have to brush up on our Latin a bit more often.
Scandinave – Les Bain Vieux-Montreal
www.scandinavemontreal.com
71 rue de la Commune W. (corner St-Sulpice)
514-288-2009
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