With the harsh bite of cold temperatures and waning sunlight, winter can wear down even the hardiest Canadians. If you're looking to thaw out those winter blues, a wellness adventure might just be the perfect remedy, and Ontario has no shortage of options.
From soothing hot tubs overlooking pristine winter vistas to invigorating treatments that melt your stress away, these day-long respites, romantic getaways or longer restorative retreats are the epitome of relaxation.
If you're ready to plan your ultimate wellness escape, here are seven of Ontario's top destinations that are worth a visit this winter.
Ste. Anne's Spa
Price: All-inclusive day spa packages start at $310 per person
Address: 1009 Massey Rd., Grafton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Ste. Anne's Spa, 90 minutes from Toronto, features castle-like vibes amidst rolling hills and lakeside views. Choose the day pass or pamper yourself with an overnight stay in the Main Inn or one of the cozy cottages.
The all-inclusive day spa experience includes a three-course lunch and $150 toward spa and wellness services like fitness classes, meditation, yoga and more. The rest of the time, you're free to wander the grounds, soak in the thermal pools and just relax.
Accessibility: Visit the website or contact Ste. Anne's Spa to ensure your accessibility needs can be met.
Terra Nova Nordic Spa
Terra Nova Nordic Spa
Price: $85 per person for the thermal experience
Address: 596145 Hwy. 59 N., Woodstock, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in southeastern Ontario, Terra Nova Nordic Spa & Café is a low-key but amenity-rich destination that's ideal if you want some quiet time in nature. The thermal experience is available year-round, offering hot and cold pools, saunas and a eucalyptus-infused steam room.
Add on spa treatments including facials, massages, manicures and even osteopathy sessions, unwind in their authentic teepee or light-filled geodome, then wrap up your visit by taking high tea in the café with scones, sandwiches, sweets and a whole menu of coffee and tea.
Accessibility: It's recommended to reach out to Terra Nova before booking to ensure your accessibility needs can be met.
Northern Edge Algonquin
Price: All-inclusive retreats start at $785 per person
Address: Kawawaymog Lake, Algonquin Park, South River, ON
Why You Need To Go: Northern Edge Algonquin offers nature-inspired retreats for groups of eight to 30, with locally sourced meals and a whole range of activities provided. Join an upcoming retreat or plan your own for you and your friends.
These all-inclusive getaways offer cozy accommodations, tailored outdoor adventures, holistic wellness activities (like yoga and meditation) and creative sessions against the picturesque backdrop of Algonquin.
Accessibility: Limited accessibility for people who require mobility support. It's recommended to reach out to Northern Edge Algonquin before booking to ensure your accessibility needs can be met.
Grail Springs Retreat for Wellbeing
The great hall at Grail Springs Retreat.
Courtesy of Grail Springs Retreat
Price: $690 for the all-inclusive Signature Package in a deluxe queen room for two
Address: 2004 Bay Lake Rd., Bancroft, ON
Why You Need To Go: This transformative sanctuary near Bancroft offers visitors all-inclusive packages from two to 20 or more nights. Plant-based meals are provided every day, along with access to the outdoor sauna, immersion therapy pools, evening classes and forest walks with crystal meditation.
Specialized programs, like "Awaken the Sacred Personal Spiritual Retreat," offer a full schedule of activities to rejuvenate both body and spirit — a unique opportunity to reset and rediscover your inner balance.
Accessibility: Limited accessibility for people who require mobility support; certified service dogs are welcome.
Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain
Price: $95 per person for a thermal journey
Address: 152 Grey County Rd. 21, Blue Mountains, ON
Why You Need To Go: With a rejuvenating water circuit inside a 10-hectare forest, this Instagram-worthy spot with stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment is just a two-hour drive north of Toronto.
Immerse yourself in the relaxing power of Scandinavian baths, wash away tension with a therapeutic massage and reconnect with nature through mindful forest bathing. Scandinave Spa is conveniently located within minutes of Ontario's top resorts, inns, and B&Bs, providing a tranquil escape in the heart of nature.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; support persons and certified service dogs welcome.
Hammam Spa by Céla
Price: Steam Rituals are $65
Address: 901 Bayview Ave., North York & 602 King St. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Drawing inspiration from the opulence of Middle Eastern spas, Hammam seamlessly blends ancient healing traditions, natural elements and modern comforts to curate a peak wellness experience.
Immerse yourself in the revitalizing ritual of Turkish baths, harnessing the benefits of steam rooms and treatments to rejuvenate both body and mind. You can come just for the Steam Ritual, but if you book a service valued over $100, it's complimentary.
Accessibility: Contact for more information
Millcroft Inn & Spa
Price: Hot Springs Day Pass is $75
Address: 55 John St., Alton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nestled amidst enchanting woodlands and cascading waterfalls, Millcroft Inn & Spa presents an idyllic blend of contemporary luxury and rustic charm. Indulge in a farm-to-table culinary experience at Headwaters Restaurant, where locally sourced organic delights take centre stage — including honey harvested from on-site beehives.
A Hot Springs Day Pass will let you into their five thermal pools, indoor steam room and traditional Finnish cedar sauna. Book an overnight stay or a treatment over $100, and your hot springs visit is complimentary.
Accessibility: The spa is accessible via elevator; additional accommodations can be arranged by contacting Millcroft Inn & Spa.
From steaming Scandinavian-style water circuits overlooking a landscape of crisp white snow to wilderness retreats that get your heart pumping among the beauty of nature, Ontario has a rejuvenating destination to suit everyone.
Whichever one you choose, the province's top spas and wellness retreats will help you shake off the winter blues and step into spring relaxed and revived.
To learn more about spa and wellness getaways in Ontario, visit the Destination Ontario website or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.