FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
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Immerse in an Invigorating Thermal Journey at Scandinave Spa Whistler

by Rina Nehdar

Nov 21, 2024

© Scandinave Spa

November 2024

The glittering green pines and burst of jasmine lake beyond almost made me forget about the aches in my legs that slowly developed after the promised hour-long hike ran into the third hour. And, oh, there were my hips, showing up to remind me I was no longer in my 20s. I didn’t mind, though, because the vision that surrounded me during our guided walk through Garibaldi Park to Cheakamus Lake in Whistler, British Columbia, with Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures proved worthy of a thousand postcards.

Part of the reason I didn’t worry about my discomfort was knowing the next day it would melt away at Scandinave Spa. I traveled with a group who quickly became friends as we shared outdoor adventures. Scandinave Spa is housed in and around a spacious, modern log cabin. When we walked in, we saw people in robes milling around a wood-paneled reception area, some snacking around the bistro, some sipping coffee. A wall of windows opened onto a bright alpine summer day. A shag rug of trees carpeted its way to distant mountains.

At a capacity of 300 guests, Scandinave Spa can usually accommodate walk-ins, but advanced reservations come with a complimentary robe rental. Massages are also available. The front desk staff gives first-time visitors an overview of the spa since they’re unable to physically tour guests around, as the outdoor spa is designated a silent zone.

spa

© Scandinave Spa

I felt excitement and trepidation as our spa guide explained the Thermal Journey. The idea is to take the body through a spectrum of temperatures from hot to cold and then relax it before doing it again two or three times. Hot elements include two heated pools, two eucalyptus steam rooms, a wood-burning sauna and a Finnish electric sauna. Cold experiences are two plunge pools, a
Nordic waterfall and a Nordic shower.

Relaxation zones spread around the outdoor spa include a collection of hammocks, three solariums, a yoga room and lounge chairs spread around a fire pit.

I mostly looked forward to the heat. I knew my aching legs would love the embrace of warm water while I sat outdoors surrounded by old-growth rainforest in 25,000 square feet of outdoor bliss. But the cold portion of the cycle had me worried. I’m not a cold-temperature person. However, I’d heard and read about how ice baths and cold plunges improve physical and mental health and can enhance circulation, among other benefits. So I bookmarked the possibility in my mind.

Acres of green pines, hemlock and ancient cedar surrounded me as I cycled through the Thermal Journey. First, I walked into the eucalyptus steam room. I felt the moist heat envelope my body and the soothing scent relax my mind. Then, unsure what to do next, I was still reluctant to submerge into the cold. I chose instead to dip into the large hot tub, shaped like a clover with pockets for privacy. Throughout this journey, I barely heard a sound from the people around me as everyone respected their inner navigator.

pool

© Scandinave Spa

Then, I knew. It was time for the cold plunge. I assured myself I could do it. Even if I just went in and came right back out. The next pool down the path was the cold pool, with a sign depicting the frigid temperature range. It was smaller than the hot pool, and only one other person braved the water. I decided I had nothing to fear except for temporary discomfort; no one was holding me down; and if the cold could reduce the inflammation of my sore muscles, it would be worth it. I walked down the steps into the pool, blue sky and evergreens framing my sight, and ignored the shock of cold as I pushed through my panic. I only lasted 10 seconds instead of the recommended 30, yet I was proud to have done it. The dopamine flowed, and I rode it to Hammock Haven, tucked behind a solarium, facing a grove of old-growth trees.

The next time I chose the sauna, and this time when I went into the cold pool, I counted and kept counting past the 30 seconds to 56 until I climbed out, feeling proud and great. I lay by the fire, alone yet surrounded by others experiencing this ritual, knowing this journey was mine, yet I shared it with others.

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FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

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