Adventure and wellness travel writer Rachael Hopwood shares her top spots in Whistler for wellness, including some amazing spas and retreats. She knows the region well and offers some fabulous options for those also looking for summer activities and stress busters!
Whistler, one of North America’s most popular ski resorts, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re thinking of booking a summer getaway. However, this stunning corner of Canada has lots to offer once the snow has melted, and an altogether more laid-back vibe makes it a leading destination for a wellness break in the mountains.
Once the long winter has abated, Whistler enjoys long sunny days with temperatures into the mid twenties on most days. Outdoor activities are available in abundance and there’s a busy events calendar too. Whether looking to have a relaxing break with a loved one or jetting off on the ultimate Whistler bachelorette party, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Here’s our pick of the best places to relax and rejuvenate, complete with a few stress-relieving activities to try while you’re in town.
Top Spas
The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge
Get that summer glow with a hot stone massage, body scrub or hydrafacial at The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge. The Swedish and deep tissue massage options prove popular with guests and the lakeside spa has a real feel of serenity. The rooftop hot tubs are highly recommended, particularly if you’ve been hiking or biking, and the eucalyptus steam room will leave you feeling truly revitalized. Nita Lake is ranked as the number one place to get your relaxation on according to TripAdvisor, so don’t just take our word for it. There’s a number of fine dining options on site too, so whether it’s a delicious meal or just a glass of bubbly you’re after, there’s plenty of opportunity to indulge.
The Spa at Four Seasons Resort
No list of spas in Whistler could miss out the #1 hotel spa in Canada, as recognized by Travel and Leisure’s “World Best Awards”. The Spa at Four Seasons Resort is a luxurious indoor/outdoor getaway focussing on nature and her ingredients, using them to boost health and renewal. The sanctuary spa itself offers twelve treatment rooms, two couples’ rooms, and two zen relaxation lounges. Check out the signature treatment, starting with a Canadian maple syrup and brown sugar scrub, moving on to a clay body wrap with an Argan oil hair treatment. If you’re visiting with family, they even offer services for the kids including kiddo specific manicures and gentle facials. Cute!
Vida Spa at The Fairmont
You don’t have to stay at The Fairmont to take advantage of the exquisite Vida Spa. The service menu includes everything from massage treatments to body wraps, and many of Vida’s treatments are based on the principles of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year old system of holistic Indian medicine. According to Ayurveda, the key to a long and healthy life is achieving a balance between body, mind and spirit. The 60 and 90 minute one-on-one restorative yoga sessions come highly recommended, and mean you don’t need to miss your yin practice even when travelling.
Love yoga…? Yoga fans should head to Whistler for Wanderlust (Aug 1st-4th 2019), an annual festival that brings together some of the best world-renowned yoga and meditation instructors, speakers and chefs, sure to lighten your path and help you feel truly zen.
Scandinave Spa
Situated on the edge of Lost Lake and Spruce Grove, the Scandinave Spa’s location is almost as exquisite as the hydrotherapy treatments it offers. Hop freely from hot pool to cold water falls and enjoy the serenity of a spa that is almost entirely outdoors. The rustic wooden setting includes an array of saunas and massage rooms and is the perfect way to spoil yourself this summer, particularly if you’ve spent the day exploring your surroundings or enjoyed a little retail therapy. The hammock haven is one of the best ways to spend a lazy summer afternoon and the spa operates a “value of silence” – promoting inner stillness and complete relaxation.
Summer Activities & Stress-Busters
While chilling out in one of Whistler’s many amazing spas is idyllic, be sure to check out these top summer stress relievers too:
Go axe throwing: Axe throwing is one of the best things to do in Whistler and you can visit the award-winning Forged Axe Throwing at any time of year. You’ll hurl hatchets at a target in this most unique alternative to darts, aiming to strike a bullseye and take home the bragging rights. Relieve stress just like the lumberjacks of old and strike up some friendly competition with your friends.
Go zip lining: Strap yourself in and ride the legendary Whistler zip line to see the natural beauty of this area from a totally breathtaking perspective. It won’t just be your adrenaline levels soaring to new heights as you swing and swoop your way down Cougar Mountain.
Go fishing: Whether you’re a seasoned angler or are brand new to the sport, fishing in Whistler is a great way to relax. Expect an abundance of fish species ready to bite your bait this summer, and opt to wade from the shoreline or head out on a boat. Whatever your skill level, the rich rivers and lakes of Whistler are sure to provide a little peace and quiet as well as impressive fishing.
Go night walking: Legend has it there was a long-lost trail hidden between the trees here that led to a secret valley where stardust falls from the sky. Moment Factory and The Adventure Group have teamed up to offer a magical twilight expedition that retraces the footsteps of bold travellers who uncovered the secret wonders of the woods. Keep your eyes peeled and don’t forget those hiking boots.
Go shopping: If your kind of cardio involves a credit card and shopping bags, you’re in for a treat. Whistler is home to a number of boutiques and independents each selling an eclectic mix of fine artwork and fashion, jewellery, outdoor sportswear and equipment, or luxury items, all while the sun (hopefully) beams down.
GETTING THERE
Direct flights operate daily from London to Vancouver, and a new direct service from Manchester will operate this summer. From Vancouver International Airport, Whistler is a two-hour drive and frequent shuttle services operate daily from the terminal building.
