I visited this luxury thermal spa —and here's what I thought

I arrived at Balnea Spa + Réserve Thermale, in Bromont, Qué., needing a relaxing massage. It was recommended I try Balnea’s signature multi-sensory full-body massage, which is curated with a blend of body manoeuvres from around the world, applied with the creative touch of a therapist to help awaken the senses.

90 minutes went by and I woke up in a complete daze. Not only did the massage relieve the tenseness in my shoulders, but my mindfulness had reached its optimal prime. I felt completely relaxed, uplifted and stress-free. Just when I thought my day at the spa over, I was invited to explore the rest of the Balnea’s all-inclusive installations and thermal experiences.

I began the rest of my day overlooking the lake, sitting inside one of the outdoor thermal WaterSense pools (certified as ultra-high efficient, allowing water savings of 50 per cent). I found a deep sense of calm sitting with my boyfriend, overlooking the mountains and lush greenery.

Balnea, nestled on a 400-acre private nature reserve, is the ideal venue for a quick getaway from the city. Being there felt like I was transported to some luxury Scandinavian resort. I had full access to treatments I could never get in Toronto, and it changed the way I looked at self-care and appreciation.

Aesthetics and relaxation aside, the pools provide an appeasing effect on the muscles as they stimulate blood circulation and calm muscular tensions and respiratory problems.

I also had the chance to try the spa’s short immersion into the cold ritual. The emblematic waterfall, the forest pond, and cold water basins offer instant energy with ice-cold water, which firms the pores that have been opened by the heat, toning the body and activating the nervous system to improve blood circulation. These few seconds of boldness will restore your vitality — it is said this circuit treats muscle pain, inflammation and respiratory problems. Gnarly, but worth the health benefits.

After immersing myself in the freezing cold water, I was told to go into the sauna, with an insane panoramic view of the woods, for fifteen minutes to rebalance my central nervous system.

Not only does an all-day pass allow you to have access to all these services, but you also have access to the Moroccan nap room, an aquarium lounge, forest acoustic cones and relaxation spaces surrounding Lake Gale. I literally spent the entire day there! I had lunch at the Lumami Resto, which was great, but didn’t have many food options. I even took an hourlong nap in one of the forest acoustic cones, which amplified the sounds of my surroundings.

If you’re ever in Montreal, I highly suggest giving this spot a chance. It’s only an hour away from the city and costs $70 for all-inclusive access to treatments. You have to pay an additional $50 for a massage, but if you ask me, you won’t even need it after lounging around all day. It’s the perfect day for couples and bridal parties.

The only downside was not being able to take photos. Due to other visitors’ privacy, no phone or cameras are allowed past the locker rooms.

Looking to book a visit?

Make sure you come with a bathing suit and flip flops. You may also want to have a book and sunglasses for when you're chilling outside. What you don’t need to bring are towels and a bathrobe — those will be provided to you once you check in at the front desk. Best of all, the spa is opened all year round. Yup, you can experience the thermal hot tubs and pools during the colder months for the ultimate winter experience.

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