Nestled on the edge of the forest beside Winnipeg’s Crescent Drive Golf Course, Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature was intentionally set in the heart of nature. An indoor-outdoor haven open year-round, its world-class facilities were carefully and thoughtfully planned long before it even opened.
During its development, every little thing was taken into consideration. From proximity of the trees, wind patterns and sightlines, to the path of the sun across the sky. The mission of Thermea is to give spa-goers the best, most zen-like experience possible – and it’s been accomplished.
Centuries-old concept of Nordic spas
Although still relatively new to North America, the ‘Nordic spa‘ concept has been a well-known fixture across Europe for centuries. The thermal ritual involves cycles of heat and cold, allowing the body to eliminate toxins, stimulate circulation, release adrenaline, and increase flow of endorphins. This results in purification, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
On site are baths, saunas and relaxation areas, connected by heated stone pathways. Walking around in bathrobes and sandals, with steam rising and spa music playing, it feels like you’ve just stumbled upon a secret little village of comfort and joy. In fact, it might even feel a little bit surreal the first time. For certain, it will feel a whole lot relaxing.
The Finnish sauna, Finlandia, is lined with cedar benches and varying heat depending on where you sit. Stones radiate soothing dry heat with essential oil infusions. Two wet saunas, Vaporo Eucalyptus and Vaporo Orange, are both luxuriously hot and steamy. The Exfolia room lets you scrub down with essential oil-infused salts, choosing from calming lavender or refreshing menthol.
Taking the plunge
The baths go from hot, to cold, to colder. Gëser is the hottest and the one you’ll linger in the longest. The temperate pool, Tempër, is a cool 21 Celsius. Only the bravest will venture into the aptly named Polarbër plunge, or stand beneath the Iceber waterfall, both of which are a teeth-chattering 10 Celsius.
While I’m normally not a fan of cold-water, I made myself try the Polerbër plunge after sweating it out in Finlandia. And am I ever glad I did! Yes, it was horribly cold, I won’t lie. But the feeling you get after exiting is so completely invigorating: a slow rush of coolness starts at your toes and spreads inch-by-inch up your body, right to the top of your head. I kid you not. It was so amazing that I willingly went back into the cold plunge for a second time after a nice long steam. I can see this process becoming quite addictive.
The Relaxa pavilion houses heated stone benches, picturesque views, fireplace, and quiet room with heated stone beds and mattresses. Sip herbal tea while listening to the sounds of babbling brooks, or slip on a pair of headphones and drift away to spa music, nature, classical, and other tranquil selections.
Smell of wood-smoke fills the air
Right in the middle of the site you’ll find my favourite place of all. Fläm is an open-air log cabin with an enclosed fire pit, circled with Adirondack chairs. You get the sweet smell of woodsmoke, the warmth of a fire, and the freshness of the great outdoors, while feeling warm and sheltered.
In addition to all this, massages and body treatments are available, and a fully-licensed restaurant serves locally-sourced dishes paired with an impressive variety of wine. Making Thermea everything you could want in a spa. And more.
So now it’s your turn, Winnipeg, to go ahead and take the plunge. The coldest one.
I dare you.
