HITTING THE SPA DURING A PANDEMIC
Precautions have changed things, but relaxation can still be found
After a stressful few months and the gradual loosening of quarantine restrictions, beauty and wellness appointments are top of mind for many. Whether it’s relieving muscle tension with a robust massage or unblocking those pores, a pampering treatment can have you feeling like your old self again.
But spa aficionados ought to expect some significant changes at their next well-being appointment. In Alberta, hot tubs and saunas won’t open until Stage 3. And you can forget about shedding pedestrian attire for a fluffy robe and swanning about the property.
As it’s next to impossible to stay two metres apart from others when change room lockers are wedged side by side, the majority remain closed. In most cases, guests are taken directly from reception to their treatment room immediately upon arrival.
Because Fairmont Banff Springs temporarily closed in April, many Willow Stream Spa devotees didn’t get a chance to suss out their $3.5-million redevelopment, completed in February of this year. This was the spa’s first major renovation since it opened in 1994, and with over 40,000 square feet and 27 treatment rooms, it’s now the largest Willow Stream Spa in the world.
Mandatory masks, temperature checks and increased cleaning are but a few of the new operational standards implemented since reopening in June.
Additionally, service providers wear masks, aprons and face shields during your treatment.
While you won’t be able to bliss out in the new 12-chaise Relaxation Lounge, nor access the change rooms or mineral pools until Phase 3, the spa has made efforts to make your wellness experience less clinic-like.
Spa-goers can wait in the comfy coed lounge before their appointment and be treated to cookies and beverages served by attendants. The newly built deluxe couple’s suite, complete with a fireplace and soaker tub, is so large, therapists have no trouble staying the required six feet apart while delivering facials, massages and wraps to partners.
Those opting for a salon service, such as a mani-pedi or hair appointment in the expanded Beauty Salon likely won’t notice the change to amenities offered. Ceiling-high Calacatta marble walls and heated, pod-like massage chairs transport guests to another world, albeit one that feels a tad bit different than what they’re used to.
While your treatment provider may look like a lab scientist, their appearance won’t affect your favourite treatments. They’re still as indulgent as ever, and to sweeten the deal, Willow Stream Spa prices are currently reduced by approximately 30 per cent.
Discounts are also available at Kananaskis Nordic Spa. While their hydrotherapy circuits and saunas remain closed until Phase 3, they’re open for massage and are offering reduced prices.
Those looking for an all-encompassing wellness experience will find it at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise this summer. Known for their spring and fall all-inclusive wellness retreats, the property is now offering weekend well-being workshops for their guests.
Similar to renting a canoe or signing up for a guided hike, guests can choose full- or halfday wellness experiences guided by renowned regional facilitators. These entry-level luxury wellness workshops are ideal for anyone who’s ever wanted to go on a spa retreat but hasn’t had the chance.
Mindfulness reset workshops encourage participants to pause, recentre and learn strategies to get back on track after a rough start to 2020. On alternate weekends, forest bathing workshops invite attendees to mindfully connect with nature through their senses. All workshop activities are set up to honour physical distancing guidelines.
Jody Robbins is a Calgary-based lifestyle writer. Follow her wellness adventures on her blog: Travels with Baggage.