Nelson Spas & Wellness
Cave at Ainsworth Hot Springs, Tourism BC photo
Considering the number of spas, yoga studios, alternative medical treatments and other healing arts and wellness centres that are on offer in Nelson, it would be tempting to conclude that the entire population is obsessed with health and beauty.
The reality is that people here like to play hard and then relax and take care of themselves.
The larger hotels have in-house spas, (including Shalimar at the Prestige Lakeside Resort – which is busy so book in advance or on arrival) and there are studios all over town offering everything from aromatherapy to acupuncture. Some are located right on or just off of downtown's busy Baker Street.
Ask the locals for recommendations – they're happy to offer directions or help – or stop in at the Visitor Centre for other tips.
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What's Watsu?
There are lots of places in Nelson to get a massage or a facial, but only one place offers therapeutic Watsu. Mountain Waters Spa has a lovely indoor pool, about the size of a really big hot tub, in which the shoulder-deep water is heated to body temperature. Try to imagine this: get in a pool, with small floats attached to the ankles to help overall buoyancy. A Watsu practitioner supports the neck and shoulders, and moves the client gently through the water. Sessions last about an hour.
Blaylock's Mansion
Selwyn Blaylock built this mansion in the 1930s as a summer home in which he could entertain. Today, this North Shore landmark is an upscale bed-and-breakfast and health spa, offering a range of services that are designed to promote the well-being of both body and soul.
Ainsworth Hot Springs
About 40 minutes drive from Nelson, overlooking Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains, Ainsworth Hot Springs is a spa for the whole family. The hot pool has its own horseshoe-shaped cave, where temperature and humidity are highest. A larger swimming pool has warm water. With lots of ledges to sit on, it's easy to stay in the water for hours. In contrast, nobody stays in the stream-fed cold plunge for long. Massage services are also available on site.
Learn more about Hot Springs in the Kootenay Rockies.
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