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Summary

7 thermal spas near Ottawa that'll transport you to Iceland's Blue Lagoon this fall

All of the relaxation, none of the long-haul travel! 🧖

Nordik Spa-Nature during the fall season. Right: Two women smile and soak in a steaming pool at Strøm Nordic Spa.

Nordik Spa-Nature during the fall season. Right: The steaming pool at Strøm Nordic Spa

Managing Editor, Canada
Ascending

Ever dream of floating your worries away in Iceland's Blue Lagoon? Luckily, you don't need to hop on a plane to get that same relaxing experience. There are plenty of thermal spas and saunas near Ottawa that'll make you feel like you've been transported to a Scandinavian retreat—without ever leaving the country.

As the crisp autumn air settles in, there's no better time to soak in an outdoor hot tub or unwind in a cozy sauna surrounded by nature. Whether you're alternating between hot and cold pools, enjoying a steam room, or indulging in some well-deserved treatments, these spots offer the perfect escape from the city. And with their serene natural settings, you'll feel completely refreshed and recharged.

So, pack up your swimsuit, grab your flip-flops, and get ready to enjoy a little slice of relaxation heaven just a short drive from Ottawa—no international travel required!

Nordik Spa-Nature

Price: From $94 per person

Address: 16 Chem. Nordik, Chelsea, QC

Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in the charming village of Old Chelsea, right on the edge of Gatineau Park, Nordik Spa-Nature is actually the largest spa in North America. It's all about relaxation and wellness here, with a focus on thermotherapy and natural surroundings to help you recharge.

With 10 outdoor pools, nine saunas, a saltwater flotation pool, and even an infinity pool that overlooks Gatineau, this place is the ultimate fall escape. Plus, there are four restaurants and tons of treatments to choose from, so you can spend a whole day (or longer!) unwinding here.

Nordik Spa-Nature website

Spa Holtz en Nature

Price: From $45 (plus tax) per person

Address: 60 Chem. Mill, Wakefield, QC

Why You Need To Go: Wakefield Mill Hotel and Holtz Spa in Nature are two go-to spots for wellness treatments in the National Capital Region. Set in a peaceful, intimate location surrounded by nature (it's in the name, right?), Holtz Spa in Nature is all about helping you unwind and recharge.

You can enjoy a relaxing massage, warm up in the sauna, and then float in the hot tub by the fireplace—it's the perfect combo for de-stressing and finding your calm.

Moulin Wakefield Mill website

Amerispa Spa Nordique Cantley

Price: From $91.98 for a one-day Thermal Experience pass

Address: 5 Chem. Sainte-Élisabeth, Cantley, QC

Why You Need To Go: Just 20 minutes from Ottawa and Gatineau, Amerispa Spa Nordique Cantley offers a unique and intimate thermal spa experience. Picture frosted lemon-scented tropical rain, a eucalyptus steam bath, and a refreshing mint-scented cold fog.

Set in a lush forest, Amerispa has it all: hot and cold baths, saunas, steam rooms, and cozy relaxation areas indoors and outdoors. It's the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature during fall.

Amerispa Nordique Cantley website

Uppliva Sauna and Steam

Price: Varies, multi-visit passes from $195

Address: 1140 Wellington St. W Suite C100, Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in the trendy Hintonburg neighbourhood, Uppliva offers a traditional sauna and steam circuit, complete with a refreshing cold plunge pool. It's easy to spend hours unwinding in cozy hammock chairs, sipping tea by the fireplace and soaking in the calm here.

Uppliva Sauna and Steam website

Koena Spa

Price: From $39

Address: 1172 Chem. d'Aylmer, Gatineau, QC

Why You Need To Go: Just 10 minutes from downtown Ottawa, Koena Spa promises a peaceful, Blue Lagoon-inspired escape without the long drive. It's a budget-friendly way to enjoy Nordic spa amenities, and the Pa'akai Himalayan salt room will have you feeling like you're oceanside.

Koena Spa website

Strøm Nordic Spa

Price: From $54

Address: 930 Laurentides Blvd, Piedmont, QC

Why You Need To Go: Nestled along the Simon River, Strøm Nordic Spa Saint-Sauveur offers a unique experience where you can dip into the river before warming up in their saunas, steam baths, and outdoor whirlpools. Located on the site of Quebec's first Nordic spa, opened in the 1960s, this spot stays true to Scandinavian traditions.

The river's proximity makes it easy to alternate between the heat of the sauna and the refreshing coolness of the water. Surrounded by mature trees in one of Quebec's most scenic tourist areas, it's the perfect place for an immersive, nature-focused relaxation experience.

Strøm Nordic Spa website

Spa et Hotel le Finlandais

Price: From $54

Address: 124 Labelle Blvd, Rosemere, QC

Why You Need To Go: You'll find a variety of saunas and pools inspired by different traditions, like the Norwegian Falls, Neptune's Cave, Japanese Sauna, Aromas of Egypt Sauna, Moroccan Lounge, and Helsinki Bubbles. There's also bistro-style food available and an on-site hotel if you want to extend your stay.

Finlandais Spa website

These prices are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.

  • Managing Editor

    Helena Hanson (she/her) is the Managing Editor of Canada for Narcity and MTL Blog, where she brings her expertise in dreamy, aspirational travel journalism to life. A first-class graduate of Cardiff University's School of Journalism, Helena has a passion for inspiring readers to discover the magic in their own backyards. Originally from the U.K., Helena has spent years uncovering hidden gems and must-see destinations across countries like Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and more. Having lived in both Canada and Australia, she's become a seasoned expert in off-the-beaten-path adventures and bucket-list experiences that don't break the bank. Whether she's writing about things to do in Ottawa, Montreal, or her favourite spot—Disney World—Helena hopes to leave readers dreaming of their next adventure.

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