Montreal needs not be jealous of the spas and relaxation areas with Scandinavian baths in the Eastern Townships or Laurentians! Indeed, two of the trendiest and most luxurious spas are on the island; even better, they’re in the heart of trendy Old Montreal.
The Scandinave Spa was the first to settle, back in 2009, in this constantly growing neighborhood. The concept was innovative: a spa with Scandinavian baths in the city centre! Scandinave Old Montreal was an instant success, and to this day, the place has remained synonymous with luxury and urban relaxation.
The following year it was Bota Bota’s turn to open its doors just a few blocks away in the same neighborhood, but this time aboard a ship docked at the Port of Montreal!
The two Old Montreal spas distinguish themselves with their respective locations, philosophy, atmosphere and level of care provided. However, both spas are targeting urban and trendy clientele that like to have fun and can afford a moment of relaxation without leaving the city.
Compare the two spas to choose which best satisfies your cravings and desires.
Le Scandinave Spa Old Montreal
The Scandinave Spa in Old Montreal offers a “luxury” indoor spa experience where silence is king. Although busy de la Commune Street is on the other side of the bay window, the location truly offers an oasis of peace! It’s perfect for cutting out external stimuli and enjoying your very own Zen bubble for a day! As soon as you enter you instantly feel more relaxed. The blue shades and natural finishes throughout the inside of the spa are especially soothing.
We particularly like how they provide everything you might need: sandals, towels, bathrobe, locker and key. You need only bring your swimsuit! The Scandinave offers baths and heat therapies as well as massage therapy (Swedish, deep tissue, lomi-atsu and volcanic stones). The perfect urban spa with a unique atmosphere that offers the essentials for relaxation in the heart of Old Montreal.
The Extras?
At the moment, the Scandinave is offering an autumn promotion, available from Monday to Thursday between 8:00am and 9:30pm. Access to the baths costs $35 plus tax and the bath & massage package starts at $99 (vs. $49 and $130, respectively, during regular times).
Also, every last Friday of the month they organize a special ‘Fridays-Lounge’ evening. Guests can mingle and chat on-site in a relaxed, yet slightly more festive atmosphere complete with music. This is the only time reserved for customers to talk, because otherwise, the spa is strictly a silent zone.
On these special nights, which take place between 9:00pm and midnight, snacks and health juices are served free. Access to the baths costs $28 plus tax and Swedish massages are $88 plus tax. The event is very popular, and as space is limited, it’s best to book a few days in advance.
Bota Bota
Bota Bota spa is truly a unique one of its kind: it’s a floating spa! Located on a boat docked at the Old Port of Montreal, the spa is also a creation of the Sid Lee Architecture firm. It’s a very impressive and brilliantly conceived spa! You enter as if leaving on a cruise; no wonder a day at Bota Bota feels like going on vacation.
The ship has five bridges distributed between all installations: two saunas with views of the river and Old Montreal, a steam bath with eucalyptus, several outdoor hot tubs, showers and cold baths, a relaxation space, restaurant, terraces and a garden! The garden was inaugurated last summer and includes a brand new outdoor space.
At Bota, you’ll appreciate the transition from indoors to outdoors as you’re enjoying the ‘water circuit’, which begins with an outdoor bath with breathtaking views of the city and then returns you inside to relaxation areas and wet or dry saunas. No matter where you are on the boat, the view is breathtaking.
The Extras?
Besides its exclusive location in Montreal, the Bota Bota spa offers a variety of health and beauty options: massage therapy, body treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures, as well as yoga classes and Pilates.
Every Monday from 5:30 to 6:30pm, you can enjoy Pilates and the entire bath circuit for $45 per person. You can also access all of the baths by taking advantage of their $35 evening promotions, ($45 regularly), available Monday to Thursday at 6:00pm; the perfect way to end a stressful day at the office! Bonus: sitting in the outdoor hot tub, the city lights are superb at night!
