Spa La Source: A Spiritual Connection in Quebec

It called to me … a lone hammock gently swaying between a knobby 15-foot tree bereft of branches and a small cluster of reedy siblings. Its perfect placement grasped the few wisps of clouds drifting overhead. Settling into its cocoon-like embrace, I felt unified with nature.

To my left, a wall of grey and ash white boulders of various shapes and sizes and some broad leaf palms thick at the base. An inviting mulch pathway led to the right, punctuated by a massive boulder, two Adirondack chairs, another hammock and a mini-grove of evergreen trees forming a natural fence. My mind wandered; perhaps I wouldn’t be alone?  Regardless, being out here in the moment was a solitary experience that was bringing me closer to my life source. It’s no wonder this place was so aptly named.

 

Finding Your Center

Located in Quebec about an hour north of Montreal, La Source Bains Nordiques (meaning Nordic Spa) is one of several concept spas dotted throughout Canada. Each combines the benefits of hot and cold plunge Jacuzzis, restorative steam and dry saunas, therapeutic massage and body treatments and enchanting indoor and outdoor relaxation areas with all-encompassing meditative environments. Together these elements invite guests to immerse themselves mind, body and soul.

La Source was six-years in the making, created by a 30-something couple compelled to leave the corporate rat race for something more meaningful. Something to not only satisfy their quest for purpose and fulfillment in what they were doing but also to help others reconnect with their true essence. The results are obvious at this breathtaking escape you’ll not only love but you’ll also find you really need.

 

The “rules” are simple:  Leave the stress of daily life behind, relax, release, rejuvenate, and enjoy. You’re encouraged to stroll the grounds in silence to absorb the meditative ambience. We meandered about the property in our swimsuits, terry robes and flip-flops from one enchanting spot to another – an inviting natural pool; several grottos set with hot and cold plunges replenished by waterfalls; semi-secluded enclaves with chaise lounges and hammocks; and hillside slopes furnished with chairs – all situated amidst the natural wonderland of a 100 year old forest. And being situated so high-up – literally, we had to climb several wooded stairways to reach the main building – enfolds you in pure mountain air.

 

In the warmer months, the clientele is about 75/25 women to men. In the winter, you might think that only those used to very cold climates would want to stroll about alfresco in their skivvies. But that would be a gross underestimation. Winter visitors are plentiful, in fact, with about a 50/50 gender split. Unlike other spas, men are not coming with their wives or girlfriends but rather alone. Perhaps it’s the Canadian joie de vivre (joy of life), or that they’re just adventuresome souls wanting to get in touch with the restorative benefits that Nordic spas provide. Whatever it is it’s working as La Source is one of the most recognized and sought after Nordic spa experiences in North America. Plus, it’s open 365 days a year, rain, snow or shine. The folks here say, “You can find a new level of peace and repose anytime, whatever the weather.”

 

Breathing in Well-Being

Most people spend 3 to 4 hours in health and wholeness reconnection here, often incorporating at least one therapeutic treatment. Offered indoors or out, treatments are designed to improve and increase cardiac function and vascular circulation, cleanse and tone the skin and eliminate harmful toxins.

Two of the most distinctive areas within the property are the Relaxation Pavilion and the Salle Noire. The Relaxation Pavilion, also referred to as the “Sleep Room,” is a spacious, architecturally stunning space with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides and an adjoining patio that’s cantilevered over the cliffs, with spectacular views of verdant trees and rainbow flora beyond. A carpeted area dotted with low chairs and oversized cushions for one or two and fluffy body pillows gives it the air of a youthful “sleepover,” yet infinitely more peaceful.

The Salle Noire (Black Room) is a true invitation to engage your senses of touch, hearing and smell as your sense of sight is almost eliminated by the darkness. The entrance is like a funhouse, a curtained off section in front separating the outside light and sound from the quiet of the inner sanctuary. Once inside it takes a few minutes for your eyes to adjust to the minimal light stemming from the fluorescent La Source emblems on each wooden rocker which indicates it is unoccupied.

The soothing new age ambient music draws you further into letting go, allowing the obscurity to induce a breathing rhythm so a heartfelt soul connection can take hold. And nothing interferes with complete calm other than the sounds of other patrons shuffling about. It’s really an amazing inward journey.

 

To Your Health

Keeping with the theme of health and wellness, the La Source Bistro offers a healthy menu that includes fresh salads, sandwiches, spring rolls, salmon tartar and lots of fruits and veggies. I opted for one of their fantastic local produce platters with sliced apple and a salad of field greens, soft and semi-hard cheeses, a tiny beaker of warm squash soup and French touches like a lamb terrine with cranberries and duck rillettes accompanied by sweet onion compote.  Everything was artfully presented on a blonde cutting board. And the ambience of relaxed, bathrobe-clad diners felt a bit like being in the afterworld.

 

Au Revoir

Finally, it was time for goodbye as we descended the stairs of this mountain paradise. For me it had been an unforgettable experience, one that brought me back to my source by closing my eyes, meditating and reconnecting with my breathing.  And nature had helped all along the way.