Cold weather unlocks Quebec’s best spa experiences

Across Quebec, thermal spas are booming not just because they’re beautiful, but because hot-cold cycling in winter delivers outsized physical and mental benefits compared to any other season.

I just came back from Canada, exploring three Quebec spas: Siberia Spa, Strøm Nordic Spa, and BALNEA spa + thermal reserve Spa. While they all feature thermal water experiences, they each also offer so much more, and each has its own vibe. I learned a lot about how to choose which one you might want to try, in addition to learning some tips and tricks to maximize your visit to any of them.

We All Could Use Some Stress Relief

At first, I intended this to be a very general article, but as an irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) sufferer, I am well aware that this gut-brain disorder is highly affected by stress. While I do watch what I eat, I am also mindful of stress-reduction techniques, and I know very few people who could not benefit from them! Got stress? Read on.

Winter at a Nordic spa feels almost cinematic the first time you step outside in a robe while snow falls quietly around you. Steam rises from hot pools, pine trees glow under soft lighting, and the cold air hits your face just enough to make the warm water feel incredibly indulgent. Let’s dive in.

I Had So Many Questions As a First-Timer

If you have never experienced a Nordic or thermal spa in the heart of winter, the process can feel mysterious, slightly intimidating, and full of unspoken etiquette. What do you bring? How long do you stay in the hot water? Do you actually dunk in the cold pools? Are you supposed to be silent? This guide walks through everything first-timers need to know before stepping into the snow surrounded thermal waters.

Every spa has explanations and guides, but some things you learn from doing. I’m going to help you be prepared.

Why Winter Is the Ultimate Time for a Thermal Spa

Thermal spas exist year-round, but winter is when they truly shine. The contrast between hot and cold becomes sharper and more invigorating, the steam rising from pools feels dramatic and soothing, and the surrounding landscape often becomes part of the therapy itself.

Many spas design their outdoor circuits to highlight winter scenery, using warm lighting, fire pits, and heated pathways to create a feeling of comfort even in freezing temperatures.

The science behind hot-cold therapy also supports winter visits. Alternating between heat and cold encourages circulation, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the nervous system in a way that many people describe as energizing yet deeply calming.

What These Spas Offer

• These spas all have day passes, as well as night passes. Some sort of special package is always running. Check individual websites.
• One thing that took us by surprise is that a reservation for the thermal circuits does not guarantee admission.They run on a first come, first served basis, and there is a limit to the number of people let in. The way around this is to be there when they open, or you can also book a service, like a massage, and that typically guarantees your access to the thermal areas. Check specifics with each spa.
• That said, the spas do not feel too crowded, and we were there on a weekend, which is typically a busy time. If one pool feels too crowded, move on to another.
• All the spas we visited have multiple hot water pools, and there are always cold plunge pools nearby.
• There are eucalyptus steam rooms.
• Dry saunas are available, as well.
• Every spa had indoor and outdoor fireplaces and pits.
• Resting areas are abundant.
• Massages and other treatments are available at all the spas.
• They all have restaurants (more on that below).

Understanding the Thermal Cycle

Most Nordic spas follow a specific sequence often called the thermal cycle. Once you understand the rhythm, the entire experience becomes intuitive and relaxing.

The classic cycle includes three steps: heat, cold, and rest.

• The heat phase typically lasts 10 to 20 minutes. This might include a sauna, steam room, or hot pool. The goal is to warm the body thoroughly and begin gentle perspiration.

• The cold phase is short but powerful. Guests might step into a cold plunge pool, roll in snow, or take a brisk cold shower. Even a few seconds is enough to create the desired effect.

• The rest phase is the part many newcomers underestimate. Relaxing in a lounge chair, hammock, or heated relaxation room allows the body to normalize and absorb the benefits of the temperature contrast. This stage often lasts as long as the heat phase.

Most guests repeat this cycle several times during a visit.

What to Expect When You Arrive

First-time visitors often feel unsure about how the day will unfold, but the structure is designed to be simple and low-stress.

After check-in, you will usually receive a robe and wristband. Lockers, showers, and changing rooms are typically well organized and designed to make transitions easy. Guests are expected to shower before entering the thermal circuit, both for hygiene and to help the body acclimate to the temperature shifts.

From there, the experience becomes self-guided. You move between pools, saunas, relaxation spaces, and quiet areas at your own pace.

At these three spas, all the thermal circuit features are co-ed, and you wear your bathing suit. (Other spas not reviewed here have co-ed areas, and sometimes areas separated by sex, where you can be naked. Know what you are signing up for).

The atmosphere is intentionally calm and slow. Many spas encourage quiet conversation or full silence, especially in indoor relaxation rooms. There will be signs explaining which areas are meant to be silent, and which allow whispering.

Tip: Some signs are in French, not always translated into English, so if English is your sole language, acquaint yourself with some key words before you go.

What to Pack for a Winter Spa Day

Packing correctly can make the difference between feeling perfectly prepared and slightly uncomfortable.

A swimsuit is an essential clothing item, but a few extras can dramatically improve comfort. Flip-flops or waterproof sandals help with walking between stations. A reusable water bottle is important for hydration. Lip balm and a simple moisturizer can help protect skin from repeated temperature changes.

Many experienced spa visitors also bring a warm hat for outdoor walking between stations, and even for wearing while in the water. Even short exposures to cold air can feel intense without head coverage.

Tried & True Tips

• Make sure to bring waterproof flipflops or sandals that slip on and off quickly. Do not rely on water shoes that are hard to get on and off. You will be walking outdoors in the cold (it was in the low single digits while we were there) and you want to be able to slip out of those shoes and get into the hot water as quickly as possible.
• Bring a waterproof bag to carry your wet bathing suit and sandals home at the end of the day.
• There are lockers, but think minimal. You really just need your bathing suit and sandals throughout the day. Phones are discouraged and prohibited in most areas. You do not want to have to worry about your phone in your bathrobe while you are in the pools.
• Spas offer robes. You could bring your own, but they get damp and heavy and would just be a drag to lug home at the end of the day. If you are a very small or larger person, ask them for an appropriate size at the desk. They tend to hand you whatever they think might be best, but we found we could get a better size if we asked.
• Bring two warm beanie-style hats. Yes, people wear hats in the pools, and they can get damp or even quite wet, and you want a dry one for later in the spa day or for when you leave.
• If you are going to spas a couple of days in a row, bring multiple bathing suits, as you do not want to have to pull on a wet bathing suit the second day (assuming you are in a hotel without a clothes dryer).
• All the spas provide some number of toiletries, but having your own lip balm and facial moisturizer that you know your skin loves will be helpful when you dress at the end of the day (or the balm for throughout).
• Do not underestimate hydrating; drink water throughout. Spas will have plenty of water available, and often have other drinks, sometimes hot and cold, available for free. Take advantage. You can bring your own bottle, or take advantage of their offerings.
• I wish I had brought a protein bar in my bag. Yes, the spas have restaurants, and you are not supposed to bring in outside food, but one day I felt a bit faint and needed to boost my blood sugar ASAP. Waiting on a restaurant reservation, which is often typical, was not going to do the trick. I happened to have a banana and a hard-boiled egg in my car, so I got dressed and went out to the parking lot, but obviously this was not optimal.

How Long You Should Stay

Many first-timers assume a spa visit is a quick activity, but most thermal spa passes are designed for several hours.

A typical visit lasts three to five hours, though some guests stay all day. The goal is to move slowly through multiple thermal cycles, enjoying different pools and relaxation spaces without feeling rushed.

This slower pace often surprises visitors who initially plan other activities afterward and later wish they had allowed more time.

The fact that there are numerous lounges and restaurants means you can stay all day without leaving the premises.

Eating and Drinking at a Nordic Spa

Food at thermal spas tends to reflect the same wellness-focused philosophy as the thermal circuit itself. Menus often emphasize light, nourishing meals that support hydration and energy rather than heavy comfort foods.

Many spas include cafés or restaurants with soups, salads, grain bowls, teas, and fresh juices. Eating lightly between thermal cycles helps maintain comfort and energy levels throughout the visit.

And yes, you just go to the restaurant right in your robe (which feels quite indulgent).

Hydration remains essential. Alternating heat and cold can be dehydrating, and drinking water regularly is strongly recommended.

The Mental Benefits of Thermal Spa Culture

While the physical benefits of hot-cold therapy are often discussed, many visitors notice the mental shift even more.

Thermal spa environments are intentionally designed to slow the pace of the day. Quiet zones, nature views, and limited phone use encourage guests to disconnect from daily stress and focus on sensory experiences.

Many people leave feeling mentally refreshed, calmer, and more present than when they arrived.

More Tips for First-Time Visitors

Number one tip for first-timers: CALL! I was able to learn about deals that were not available or clear on the websites.

The day of, arriving early helps maximize the experience and avoid feeling rushed. Starting the day with the thermal circuit often sets the tone for a slower, more relaxed mindset.

Eating a light meal beforehand can prevent hunger from interrupting the experience. Planning minimal activities afterward allows the relaxed feeling to last longer.

Most importantly, allow yourself to move slowly. The experience is not meant to be optimized or rushed.

There might be times when you want to rest in the relaxation areas with a book or tablet (which are allowed), so plan accordingly.

Every spa has a boutique, so if you have forgotten something, such as a bathing suit or sandals, you can purchase there (for a premium, of course). They all also sell the toiletries and essential oils that are used within the spa.

Always check packages. There are single day, single night, as well as month long, seasonal, and other discounted packages.

Nordic spas can be a family affair. Look for family times and special pricing. For instance, every Sunday from 9am to 12pm are Family Mornings at Siberia; children as young as 5 are welcome. Conversely, if you are looking for a romantic spa time with your partner, these would be good times to avoid. Please check individual locations for age restrictions.

Pros and Cons of Siberia Spa, Strøm Nordic Spa, and BALNEA spa + thermal reserve Spa

Here are my personal Pros and Cons of the three spas I visited. 

Siberia Spa

We visited for a night session, which ended up being quite lovely, as this spa is in the woods, adorned with twinkling lights. 

Pros: 

• Upon making reservations, I happened to mention that we were coming in that day from the States. They have a special evening pricing for the thermal access and guaranteed us entrance without having to book any treatments, due to the fact that we were arriving from a great distance.
• Their rubber bracelets that give you access to your own locker have an integrated key system within the silicone, so there is no key flopping around your wrist.
• Hands down, Siberia Spa has my favorite steam room. I don’t know if it is the quality of their eucalyptus essential oil, the ratio of eucalyptus to steam, or the quality of their water, but it is the best steam experience (for me) of the three spas. Along with Strøm floating pool, this was a major highlight. Also, in the steam room, you are invited to pick up a bucket of ice chips. You give yourself an ice massage while you are in the hot steam room, which is an incredibly interesting sensory experience. Their “ice room” is in a vestibule before you go into the steam room proper, which prevents the steam room from a cold shock from the cooler area where you disrobe.
• I liked their restaurant the best because it was the simplest. It is more of a café, very casual, and for me, when I am visiting a spa like this, I am not interested in an extensive sit-down restaurant experience with alcohol—but this is obviously a very personal opinion.
• The Spa is connected to the Bergeron River, and if you are daring, you can dip in the river itself reached via a secluded path/walkway.

Cons: 

• Part of the reservations process was a bit odd. After we secured our Friday evening visit, the customer service rep was ready to hang up the phone call; I asked if they wanted my email for confirmation. She said that there was no email confirmation. The idea of driving all the way up to Quebec not having this assurance was a bit nerve-wracking, but I trusted it would all work out, and it did. 
• If you go to the café, you will need your credit card, which is not convenient.

Strøm Nordic Spa

We booked massages at Strøm so that we would be guaranteed access to the thermal pools. Strøm has several locations; these notes are based on Old Quebec overlooking the St. Lawrence River. You will see in the pictures of Strøm in Old Quebec that the look is very industrial, and that was a bit off-putting during planning, but if I had to choose one of these three spas to return to, it would be this one.

Pros:

• There is more “to do” at Strøm; this was mentioned in many reviews, and until I started experiencing these spas, I didn’t realize why that was such a positive. In addition to all the standard offerings aforementioned, Strøm has a room with infrared lounge chairs, a self-salt exfoliation room, a lazy river, a thermal pool that is indoor and outdoor connected, an outdoor whirlpool, and a huge salt flotation pool (see more below). This is in addition to numerous thermal pools, dry saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas.
• You do not stay in the hot or cold areas for very long, so having more choices of areas to move onto ends up being a very positive feature.
• The Lazy River: There is an area of their indoor/outdoor thermal pool that has a one-way flow that gently carries you along. There are pool noodles available, which you do not need, but either way, being pulled along gently in the heated water is truly relaxing and really fun!
• The Salt Flotation Pool: This might be our very favorite experience of all. There is a large, warm, indoor pool, with a heavy concentration of Epsom salt, meant to mimic the salinity of the Dead Sea. The room has subdued lighting and is lined with (faux) candles. You can float effortlessly, and your body can completely let go and relax. This is an extra fee, beyond the Thermal Experiences access, but worth every damn penny.
• While this is a larger facility than the other two, you can always find quiet spaces. For instance, even on a busy Saturday, there were times we were alone in the salt flotation area, or just sharing with one or two other people.
• Numerous relaxation areas with glass walls offer stunning views.
• They have a hydration station, which offers cold water, as well as hot mint tea.
• If you need to buy anything during the day, your locker number connects to your account, and you need nothing else.
• My massage, which does cost extra, was the best massage I have ever received. Of course, this might vary depending on your massage therapist. I would ask for Felix again.
• Fellow spa-goers were of all ages, which I appreciated.

Cons: 

• For some reason, when you check in, your silicone bracelet has a key dangling from it. The key clinks and clacks against things as you move from area to area, which I found annoying. Curiously, when you get your bracelet for the salt flotation room, it has an integrated key within the bracelet itself; they should all be like that.
• The restaurant gets busy and you need reservations. Also, the menu is quite limited, and IMO, a bit heavy leaning. They have a bar, which is a plus for many, but when my blood sugar was tanking, I tried to get a glass of juice, and they could not provide. We found ready-made juices at the front desk, but the maître d’ did not tell us that.

BALNEA spa + thermal reserve 

We went to BALNEA spa + thermal reserve in Bromont, on Lac-Gale. While Siberia is in a pine grove, and Strøm is on the St. Lawrence River, BALNEA spa + thermal reserve is perched on a mountaintop, overlooking the lake and rolling fields. The crowd here skewed a bit younger.

Pros: 

• BALNEA spa + thermal reserve can be the most economical, depending on when you book. 
• You are given a silicone wristband with a dangling tag with your locker number. This number can be used for any purchases made during your visit.
• There are some interesting relaxation areas: there is a Moroccan-themed area with little sleeping pod/bunks; a room with fish tanks and comfortable seats; a room with nature videos and headphones; and we loved the two-story separate building with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, fireplaces, couches and blankets. We took a nap there.
• They have several saunas and relaxation areas facing huge glass walls with spectacular views offering a connection to nature.

Cons: 

• That dangling wrist tag is also a con; why they don’t all have the integrated magnetic “keys” confounds me.
• I found the steam room to be overpowering. The eucalyptus actually stung my eyes, and being a huge steam room fan, this was a bummer. I could not stay in the room.
• Overall, BALNEA spa + thermal reserve does not feel as luxurious. An exception is the restaurant, which also has a lounging area, both of which are very nicely appointed. Otherwise, from the lockers, which were hard to use for many of us, to the overall feel, it is not as “luxe.” This could be a pro for some, given the lesser price point.

The Takeaway

We are figuring out how to get back. This was a six-hour drive for us, so it is not around the corner, nor is it insurmountable. Two days in a row felt great. By the third day, we were a bit spa-saturated.

You could create a Quebec/Old Quebec itinerary, which takes advantage of all of what the area has to offer, going to a spa on the first day, and the last. Siberia Spa and Strøm are very close to one another. BALNEA spa + thermal reserve is hours away, but we hit it on our way home, so if you are driving south to the US, that is an option.

If I had to pick one, it would be Strøm Nordic Spa, but note that not all of their locations have the salt flotation room, and that is one of the main reasons I would go back there.

Strøm, I will be back. The steam room at Siberia will be graced by us again, and for a shorter trip from New England, Balnea would be highly considered.