There it is again, the telltale pitter-patter of Seattle’s winter drizzle on the roof. A familiar blanket of gray clouds covering the sky. It’s only sensible to find yourself daydreaming of your next trip.
While it may be easy to write off as a passing fancy, taking time off is key for your mental and physical health. Inc. Magazine reports that vacations reduce stress and anxiety, prevent heart disease, improve productivity and promote better sleep.
BOOK NOW: Seattle to Victoria, BC Overnight Hotel Package!
Time to stop dreaming and start planning. With a new year upon us, go ahead and put your needs first with these incredible ways to plan a spa and wellness retreat in Victoria, BC.
Embark on a Wellness Getaway for a Meaningful Transformation
In an era of non-stop notifications, status updates and pings, nothing is more freeing than escaping the daily grind by scheduling some much-needed spa-time and quality relaxation. A quick mini-vacation that results in a big transformation, leaving you feeling refreshed and recharged. Especially when it includes a scenic 2-hour and 45-minute cruise from Seattle to Victoria, BC on the Victoria Clipper ferry.
Steam, Soak and Massage Your Way to Spa Bliss
From aromatic steam rooms to heated mineral pools and relaxing rubdowns, spa life equals the good life. Make self-care a priority for your busy, hardworking self and unwind and rejuvenate your spirit with some hard-earned R&R at one of Victoria’s phenomenal five-star resorts.
Parkside Hotel and Spa
Sneak away to a sanctuary rooted in healing and rejuvenation at Parkside Hotel and Spa. As an all-suite hotel, enjoy the comforts of home in the charming city of Victoria encouraging you to hit pause, and press that reset button in the depths of winter. With the spa’s philosophy focused on sustainability and natural products, soothe your skin with a customized Eminence facial or indulge in a 90-minute relaxation massage before hitting the pool and hot tub to finish off your day.
Whether it’s a girl’s getaway, some much needed solo time or a trip with your special someone, browse a variety of services suited for everyone! Book this hotel with FRS Clipper, learn more.
Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Surrounded by the fresh air of the Salish Sea and sunsets that paint the sky hues of pinks and blues, a trip to this seaside hotel and spa is the equivalent of watching your worries whisk away from the moment you step foot in the lobby.
As the stunning scenery of the PNW and Mount Baker welcome you through floor to ceiling windows to begin your day, distraction takes a different meaning at Oak Bay. Indulge your physical senses in a variety of holistic treatments and therapies from deep tissue massages, to collagen-infused facials at the Boathouse and when you’re done, take a dip in one or all 3 of their heated mineral pools.
As the sun sets across the water, sip on a winter warmer or zero-proof cocktail with light bites poolside nourishing your body and invigorating your mind. Book this hotel with FRS Clipper, learn more.
Willow Stream Spa
Voted in the top 100 spas in America by Condé Nast, soothe your soul with the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Empress’ unique Spa Ritual. A combination of a comforting soak in their thermal mineral bath plus a stop to relax in the eucalyptus steam inhalation room and sauna makes the experience simply divine.
Melt away your winter blues afterward with a 120-minute relaxation massage or energizing detox wrap.
Book this hotel with FRS Clipper, learn more.
Ritual Nordic Spa
Looking to end the day out and about with a little slice of heaven? This modern sauna focused spa is sure to do the trick. Find a massage that suits your fancy or leisurely move through their Nordic circuit at your own pace while trying out the Finnish sauna, eucalyptus infused steam room, cold plunge pool and salt lounge.
When your done wind down on the outdoor patio and cafe while relaxing with a cold plunge pilsner or cold juice.
Explore the great outdoors
If you’re looking to truly disconnect, immersing yourself in nature is a tried and true starting point. A study from the University of East Anglia reported in Science Daily found, “Populations with higher levels of green space exposure are also more likely to report good overall health.”
With hundreds of parks, green spaces and natural areas scattered across Vancouver Island, tranquility can be found in any direction. A 30-minute drive out of Victoria’s downtown core brings you to the spectacular Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Nestled next to the Saanich Inlet, it boasts of more than 25 kilometers of trails for your wandering pleasure.
There’s nothing quite like the smooth, mirror-like expanse of water or the rhythmic sloshing of waves to lull you into a state of tranquility.
For a unique water experience, drive about an hour east of Victoria to pay a visit to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park. A swimming haven for locals in the summer, the series of deep, polished rock pools connected by waterfalls offer a peaceful locale for a quiet stroll or a picnic. Plus, nearby towering trees provide a beautiful canopy and no shortage of green!
Feed Your Body and Your Soul
If you’re going to treat your body, your taste buds should be at the top of the list. Head out of the downtown core to the Saanich Peninsula’s secret foodie haunt Charlotte and the Quail.
Tucked on the edge of the Horticulture Center of the Pacific (HCP), the rustic restaurant focuses on simplifying healthy eating by serving up wholesome food crafted from ingredients sourced from neighboring farms. Sample the local favorite, oatmeal pancakes or slurp up the ever-changing seasonal soup. (Insider tip: Don’t miss their aptly named sister location, Nourish Kitchen + Cafe, an 1888 heritage home-turned-restaurant mere steps from the Victoria Clipper terminal.)
Wash your eats down with one of the Booster Juice locations and try one of their cold-pressed juices, or a signature shot with lemon, turmeric, coconut, and ginger resetting and nourishing your body for the day’s adventures.
Leave your stress behind for a weekend away in the charming coastal city of Victoria. Home to healthy, farm-to-table eats, luxurious spas and awe-inspiring natural beauty, it’s a place where you can kick back, relax and explore without feeling exhausted and in need of a second holiday. You’ll come back revived and ready for anything.
