How to Spend a Perfect Spa Day at Le Nordik in Chelsea, Quebec
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend the day with a friend, or a must-visit destination while in the Ottawa region, look no further than Le Nordik Spa in Chelsea, Quebec. Tucked into the stunning Gatineau Hills, just a short 25-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, this Scandinavian-style spa retreat offers the perfect mix of nature, relaxation, and connection. Whether you’re visiting with a friend, your partner, or on a solo self-care day, Le Nordik is one of those rare places where time seems to slow down—and you leave feeling completely refreshed.
Why Le Nordik Is a Must-Visit Near Ottawa
Le Nordik has long been a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike. I’ve been coming here for years, and every time I return, I find something new to love. What began as a serene thermal spa has expanded into a world-class wellness destination that blends the spectacular outdoor setting with spa luxery.
The spa now features three distinct areas designed to create different atmospheres depending on what you’re looking for:
- The Quiet Section – perfect for gentle conversation and peaceful connection.
- The Silent Section – ideal for those who want true solitude and mindfulness, surrounded only by the sounds of nature.
- The Social Section – where you can chat with friends, enjoy a cocktail, and soak in the lively, restorative energy.
This thoughtful design makes Le Nordik feel inclusive to every kind of spa-goer. Whether you crave stillness or social connection, you’ll find your rhythm here.
Arriving and Planning Your Day
Our girls’ getaway began bright and early, with a 9 a.m. reservation. We were greeted by friendly staff who checked us in quickly and provided everything we needed: robes, towels, and a keyless locker wristband that doubles as your payment method throughout the day. It’s a small touch that makes the experience seamless—you can move from saunas to pools to restaurants without carrying a wallet or keys and can even exchange your robe or towel if it gets to wet during your stay.
You’ll want to bring a few essentials with you:
- A bathing suit
- Flip-flops
- A plastic water bottle (there are filling stations throughout the spa)
- Optional: a cloth bag for your hat, sunglasses, or book—plus it helps you spot your robe among the many hanging on hooks!
We spent the next six and a half hours completely immersed in the experience, leaving around 3:30 p.m. feeling both relaxed and reconnected. What I love most about Le Nordik is that there’s no time limit—you can stay as long as you like. Many people spend the entire day and even linger into the evening when the pools glow softly under the night sky.
The Thermal Experience: Hot, Cold, Rest
The foundation of Le Nordik’s experience is based on the Nordic thermal cycle, a rejuvenating ritual that alternates between hot, cold, and rest. This centuries-old tradition is known to improve circulation, boost energy, and calm the mind.
Here’s how it works:
- Heat Up – Begin with a sauna, steam room, or hot tub to open your pores and release tension.
- Cool Down – Take a quick plunge in one of the cold pools or under a refreshing waterfall to invigorate your senses.
- Rest – Relax in a hammock, by a fire pit, or in one of the cozy rest areas to allow your body to rebalance.
Repeat the cycle as often as you like throughout the day. There’s no “right” way to do it—just listen to your body and move at your own pace.
Spa Rituals: A Unique Sensory Experience
This visit, I tried something new and joined two of Le Nordik’s spa rituals. These special experiences are free with admission, and I highly recommend them if you’re looking to elevate your visit beyond the traditional thermal circuit.
The first ritual I attended was Arboreal, inspired by the forest that surrounds the spa. During this ritual, branches are used to move air and water in rhythmic motions, creating a gentle, almost hypnotic flow. It felt deeply grounding and connected to nature—a true reminder of the spa’s setting in the heart of the Gatineau Hills.
The second was the Aufguss Ritual, held in one of the larger saunas. It’s a multi-sensory experience where a host performs a choreographed routine to music, using towels to circulate waves of hot air and aromatic essential oils. Snowballs infused with oils are placed on the sauna rocks and slowly melt, releasing layers of scent and steam. The combination of heat, music, and movement creates a surprisingly meditative and energizing experience.
If you plan to participate in these rituals, check the schedule when you arrive and head to the sauna about five minutes early to ensure a spot. They fill up fast!
Dining at Le Nordik
After a few cycles of hot-cold-rest, we stopped for lunch at my favourite restaurant on-site, Le Resto. Over the years, the spa’s food and drink offerings have expanded significantly, but Le Resto remains a standout. The menu focuses on fresh, healthy, and flavourful dishes, perfect for a wellness-focused day.
We shared one of their amazing salads, a grilled fish dish, and the bruschetta. The ingredients are always fresh and beautifully presented, and the space itself feels calm and inviting. If you’re in the mood for something lighter or more social, there are also outdoor dining spots and cocktail bars sprinkled throughout the spa. Whether you’re sipping sparkling water, a smoothie, or a glass of wine, it’s easy to settle into the relaxed rhythm of the day. Plus, everyone is in their robe, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy.
Spaces to Unwind
One of the things I appreciate most about Le Nordik is how thoughtfully the spaces are designed. Every path winds through natural rock, trees, and waterfalls, creating a sense of immersion in nature. There are countless spots to rest and recharge—hammocks, swings, quiet cabins, firepits, and even warm stone beds tucked away in a cozy bunkroom (a personal favourite).
In autumn, the trees surrounding the spa burst into colour, painting the hills in shades of gold, orange, and red. And in winter, snowflakes drifting down while you soak in a hot pool feels straight out of a Scandinavian fairytale.
Tips for Your Visit
If it’s your first time visiting Le Nordik Spa-Nature, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Book in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
- Arrive early to enjoy a full day without feeling rushed.
- Hydrate often—alternate between spa water stations and herbal teas available on-site.
- Bring minimal belongings; everything you need will fit in your locker.
- Try something new—whether it’s a ritual, a massage, or an exfoliation treatment.
- Take time to explore Chelsea Village before or after your visit. It’s filled with cafés, local boutiques, and trails for a pre- or post-spa stroll.
Why Le Nordik Is Worth the Visit
Le Nordik Spa-Nature is more than just a spa—it’s a complete wellness experience that reconnects you with yourself and the natural world. Each visit feels different depending on the season, your mood, and who you’re with. Whether it’s a cozy winter escape, a summer retreat, or a fall getaway surrounded by fiery leaves, it always feels restorative.
For me, this girls’ day was exactly what I needed: a day to unwind, catch up, and recharge surrounded by nature and calm. It’s a reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated—it can be as simple as spending a day in good company, letting go of stress, and enjoying life’s small luxuries.
If you’re planning a visit to Ottawa or live nearby, add Le Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea, Quebec, to your list. It’s the perfect place to reconnect—with friends, with nature, and most importantly, with yourself.
? Le Nordik Spa, Chelsea, Quebec
? chelsea.lenordik.com
If you are looking for other spa getaways, check out the best spas on Vancouver Island.
Great description of a spa visit!