Postcard from Siberia Spa
There’s little I love more than a spa day: that sort of “forced relaxation” is not only a great example of self-care, but it’s also a really healthy vacation activity. During my weekend in Quebec City, I spent an afternoon at the absolutely gorgeous Siberia Spa. The spa is based on a Scandinavian concept “alternating hot, cold and rest to bring about deep relaxation.” I can attest that not only does the concept work, but it’s intensified by the beautiful and calming natural surroundings: most of the spa is situated outdoors, underneath towering trees and next to a flowing river. 
Siberia Spa is located about a 20-minute drive outside of Quebec City proper. Hotel de Glace (aka the ice hotel!) is in between: if you’re visiting in winter, it’d be worth popping in for a frozen cocktail on your way back to the city. I recommend going early in the day and/or on weekdays to avoid local crowds, and plan on spending at two to three hours relaxing. It was especially cool to visit an outdoor spa in winter (hanging out in a hot tub right next to a snowbank!), but it is open year-round, rain or shine or snow. I think it’d be especially beautiful when the leaves are changing in fall!
Although most of the people at the spa were groups of friends or couples, I feel like this is actually a perfect activity for solo travelers. Most of the spaces encourage only speaking in whispers, and there are plenty of silent zones: being alone means there isn’t any temptation to chat. You’re able to truly relax and reflect and take the hot-cold-rest at your own pace. I had such a lovely time! 
The place is also set up perfectly for quiet reflection and Kindle reading. I spent most of my time reading Under the Banner of Heaven: the multi-layered story and nonfiction aspects were so intriguing.
A yurt filled with hammocks arranged around a wood-burning stove: can it get more rustic and relaxing than that? 
There’s a river that runs through the back edge of the property, and you can take your “cold” by plunging right into it. It’s incredibly scenic, especially in the middle of winter. 
I dipped my toes into it, but couldn’t bear to go all the way in: it was absolutely freezing!
The cafe offers healthy snacks and light lunches: I enjoyed the butternut squash soup, but I especially loved the Scandinavian-inspired design and high, sweeping ceilings. 
Have you ever visited an outdoor and/or Nordic spa? What was your favorite part?
p.s. there’s a great Scandinavian spa in Montreal, and incredible hot spring spas in Melbourne, Jordan and Iceland.
