With abundant snowfall magnifying the already breathtaking natural landscapes, winter in Quebec is an invitation to get out of the house and enjoy it to the fullest. Hiking, sledding, snowshoeing, snowboarding, downhill skiing, or cross-country skiing—there’s no shortage of winter sports for those who love to play outside. For ski enthusiasts, the rush of adrenaline felt on the slopes calls for a slowdown at the end of the day, a descent into a peaceful space where you can unwind.

Skiing places incredible strain on our lower body muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings, calves) and our back muscles. When turning, the knee and hip joints cushion the movement and anticipate changes in terrain. In cold weather, our blood vessels constrict in a process called vasoconstriction: the body limits blood flow to the surface to keep heat at its core and protect vital organs, such as the heart and brain.

The thermal experience is based on the age-old concept of thermotherapy. Available twelve months a year, rain or shine, this wellness ritual involves alternating between heat and cold to help the body regain balance.

Hot: The ritual begins with intense heat from a dry sauna, hot tub, or steam bath, which dilates blood vessels, eases tension on our muscle tissue, and decongests our respiratory tract.
Cold: The second process involves a quick, sudden immersion in glacial water that stimulates blood circulation and sharpens mental clarity.
Relaxation: The final process is a period of relaxation, allowing the body to return to a neutral state. This period of rest promotes endorphin release and allows you to feel the physical and mental benefits of alternating hot and cold temperatures.

This whole process should be repeated two or three times to relax the muscles, create a sense of lightness, cleanse your spirit, and improve the quality of your sleep.

After a long day on the slopes, a thermal experience offers a welcoming physical reprieve that manifests itself in a number of ways:

Muscle relaxation and reduced muscle soreness
Heat helps ease the tension found in areas of the body under high strain, like thighs, calves, and lower back. The cold acts like a natural anti-inflammatory by limiting micro-inflammation occurring from exertion.

Mobility and recovery
Alternating temperatures improve joint mobility and get your body ready to move freely again, so you can hit the slopes the very next day!

Circulation and energy
The contrast between vasodilation and vasoconstriction stimulates venous return, promotes more efficient oxygenation, and restores tone and clarity of mind.

Immunity and respiration
Regular temperature fluctuations can strengthen the body’s adaptive mechanisms, while the sauna facilitates deeper breathing; when coming out of the cold, breathing becomes lively and full, reactivating a vital rhythm.

Not only are there physical benefits to a spa, but a thermal experience also helps recentre our spirit. Heat relaxes, and the cold gives clarity; combined, they offer a renewed sense of awareness. By relaxing, we give way to calm. When repeated, the three processes clear the mind, reduce stress, and create a sense of peace.

Tempted to enjoy an experience of total relaxation after a day on the slopes? For stress-free logistics, combine your ski destination with the nearest Strøm Nordic Spa. Designed with well-being in mind, the five Strøm spas are the perfect place for optimal recovery in a natural environment that is even more beautiful with the snow.

Old Quebec: Between the River and the mountains

Coming from the summits of Stoneham (~25 min), Mont-Sainte-Anne (~30 min), or Massif de Charlevoix (~60 min), your journey will end at Strøm Nordic Spa of Old Quebec.
After enjoying spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River from the mountaintops, admire the immensity of the River from the infinity pool and discover one of the largest floating baths in North America. One of Quebec’s most spectacular spas, recognized as an international benchmark by wellness industry professionals and guests alike.

To fully enjoy your spa visit, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to help you prepare.

When should you go to the spa?
After skiing (late afternoon or evening), for immediate recovery. The next morning, to extend the effects and start a new day of skiing in comfort.

How long should you visit?
Anticipate a spa visit lasting 2 to 3 hours to fully benefit from the thermal experience.

How many thermal cycles should I do?
Aim to do 3 to 4 cycles of hot/cold/relaxation, with 15 minutes of heat, 10–15 seconds of cold (listen to your body), and 20 minutes of relaxation.

What should I bring to a spa?
A swimsuit, sandals (required), a reusable water bottle, a waterproof bag to store your wet swimsuit at the end of your visit, and a hat for outdoors.

Final advice
Drink regularly (water or herbal teas). After the spa, opt for a light and nutritious meal (protein, vegetables, whole grains) to optimize recovery.
Avoid alcohol before and during cycles; it disrupts thermoregulation and alters perception.