Unwind at these 7 Nordic spas in cottage country

Vettä, a Finnish-inspired day spa, is surrounded by a hardwood forest in Ontario’s Horseshoe Valley. The spa was founded by Eric Harkonen, who grew up surrounded by his parents' Finnish values—embracing nature, resourcefulness, and daily sauna practice. Cycle through hydrotherapy, indulge in a massage, and grab a bite at one of the spa’s two restaurants.

In Gravenhurst, Ont., a Nordic-inspired thermal cycle floats on Lake Muskoka. Yes, floats! Soak up the warmth of the wood-fired sauna while admiring the views of the Muskoka Wharf, take a cold plunge into the lake or a cold-bucket rinse, then chill out on the dock (chilly temperatures permitting). You can visit Floathaus for a community, private, or half-day session.

A lively spa year-round, the Muskoka Beer Spa in Torrance, Ont., turns into a Nordic retreat in the winter. Take a dip into the freezing waters of Clear Lake, relax in a lakeside sauna, and then grab a locally-made craft beer from Clear Water Brewing.

Just minutes from the Blue Mountain ski hills, driving down the tree-lined driveway to Scandinave Spa Blue is like being transported to another world. While the indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy baths are the star of the show, you can spend hours relaxing by the fire pits and in the dining room. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the property’s peaceful trails, either on your own or on a guided forest bathing walk.

On the other side of the country, Scandinave has another must-visit Nordic spa. Indulge in hydrotherapy and relaxing massage therapy at Scandinave Whistler, all while surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies.

The mountains are calling! Just 45 minutes from Calgary, the Kananaskis Nordic spa at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature. The spa includes six hot and cold treatments—including a forest view sauna and exfoliation cabin—plus, countless spots to rest with breathtaking views of the Rockies.

In Quebec’s Charlevoix region, Spa Nordique Le Germain is the peaceful retreat you’ve been dreaming of. Alternate between the Finnish sauna, eucalyptus steam room, hot and cold outdoor pools, and even a snow fountain. After a long day of relaxing, rest your head at the adjoining Le Germain hotel.