7 of The Best Ski Resort Spas from Ski Independence
February 2016
Skiing can be tough on the body, especially if you only get away once or twice a year, with burning thighs a common complaint. What better then, than to relax and recharge at the end of the day with a soak in a luxurious hot tub or sauna or by indulging in a full body massage?
Our guide to the best ski resort spas is here to help you find the perfect place to ease your aching limbs out of your ski boots and into the very best Jacuzzis and luxury pools. From the simple pleasure of a hot tub with a beautiful mountain vista, to an all-out spa experience complete with ice pools and flower baths, Ski Independence's team of Ski Specialists have tried and tested (reluctantly, of course!) a wide range of spa and wellness experiences to share with you.
The Confluence waterfall at the St Regis Aspen
1. The Remède Spa, St Regis Hotel Aspen
Voted the Number 1 Spa in the World by Travel + Leisure, the 1,500 square foot luxury Remède Spa at the exclusive St Regis hotel comes complete with steam caves, cold plunge pools, hot tubs, a fitness centre, the 'Confluence' waterfall and complimentary champagne. There's even an oxygen lounge if the Rocky Mountains altitude is proving a little too much to handle in the first few days of your holiday. Take your rejuvenation a step further with unlimited access to Aspen's renowned yoga studio Shakti Shala for $25 per night when you stay at the St Regis Aspen.
Ski Independence top tip:
"I really love the St Regis Spa in Aspen – it’s a champagne and nibbles, self-indulgent, spoil yourself sort of a place. Just what you want on holiday!" Karen, Ski Specialist
2. Hotel W Verbier
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The AWAY Spa indoor/outdoor pool
The AWAY Spa at Verbier's trendiest hotel, The W, offers 800m2 of relaxation space with all the best treatments and facilities including manicures, pedicures, full body massage and facials. You can also sample dishes from the special Spa Menu - including quinoa & green lentil salad, green smoothies and multigrain bagels, indulge in a Japanese Away Ritual, "a real journey through the traditional culture of Japanese medicine", or give your legs a boost with the Light Legs Care treatment - 60 minutes of 'cold' treatment that is said to leave your legs light and your figure toned.
Ski Independence top tip:
"The W’s spa is incredible – perfect to unwind after a day in the 4 Valleys!" Claire, European Product Manager
3. Scandinave Spa, Tremblant
Scandinave Spa Tremblant
Discover the amazing benefits of hydrotherapy in the natural surroundings of the Scandinavian baths in Tremblant, where it's all about invigorating and cleansing the body. Start by warming up in the wide array hot baths, steam rooms and saunas, then cool right down again and close your pores in one of the cold showers or baths, or by dipping into the Diable River (yes even in winter!). Lastly, relax!
Ski Independence Top Tip:
"Scandinave spa in Tremblant is an adults only, chatter free, oasis of calm in the woods. It’s quite magical to relax in the outdoor hot pool with snowflakes fluttering down and wild birds and deer grazing!" Karen, Ski Specialist
4. Aqua Allalin Wellness Centre, Saas Fee
A hot tub with a view at the Aqua Allalin, Saas Fee
Part of the Saas Fee Youth Hostel, the Aqua Allalin Wellness centre offers a great value, typically Swiss wellness experience including sensory showers, a Finnish sauna, herbal steam bath, hot tub and relaxation areas. Follow up with a revitalising tea from the wide selection in the Aqua Allalin's dedicated tea room. Entrance to the wellness centre and swimming pool is just 35CHF and available to all visitors to Saas Fee, and you can book a 30 minute massage for a very reasonable 55 CHF.
Ski Independence Top Tip:
"In true Swiss style the wellness area is a swimming costume free zone however for us prudish Brits there are hammam towels provided so there is no need to bare all if you don’t feel comfortable" Julie, Agency Business Development. Read more in A Short Break in Saas Fee.
5. The Chedi Andermatt
The Hydrothermal pool at the Chedi Andermatt
The spectacular spa at the Chedi Andermatt - "almost a reason not to ski!" says Claire - includes a 35m indoor pool with a glass ceiling and a 12m outdoor temperature controlled lap pool. Luxuriate in the spa's range of baths and saunas, including bio and Finnish saunas, a scented salt steam bath, hot and cold plunge pools, ice fountain and flower bath. There are 10 treatment rooms (or 'spa suites') where Oriental treatments are the order of the day.
Good to know:
Personal trainers are on hand for indoor and outdoor training sessions for individuals or groups, including walking, cross-country skiing and Pilates.
6. The Crater, Park City Utah
Totally unique, The Crater
For something completely different, The Crater is quite simply like nothing else you will have ever come across: "a natural, geothermal pool - in a crater". Natural light and fresh air come in through the hole at the top of the dome but don't worry, there's a tunnel at ground level for access so abseiling skills aren't required! Go for a soak in the mineral rich water for just $16, scuba dive in the warmth, or attempt to stay dry by taking a paddle board yoga class.
Ski Independence Top Tip:
"Quite basic but pretty unique, The Crater is around a 30 minute drive from downtown Park City so you will need a rental car to get there, or you could grab a taxi for around $50, plus tip" Pete, Overseas Operations Manager
7. Ki Niseko
Ki Niseko rotenburo baths
You couldn't write a blog about the best ski spas and miss out Japan! Onsen are a mainstay of Japanese culture and probably the ultimate 'natural' hot tub, where mineral rich spring waters reach tempartures of 400 C+. Niseko's newest luxury hotel, the Ki Niseko offers separate male and female Onsen, both with indoor tubs and outdoor stone rotenburo baths, plus saunas and plunge pools. You can also reserve a private Onsen if you're travelling as a group or with family.
Good to know:
It's obligatory to bathe without clothes or swimming costumes in an onsen. The Ki Niseko have produced a handy guide to Onsen etiquette to avoid any embarrassment or Lost in Translation moments!
To arrange your visit to any of the best ski resort spas or resorts we've included above, simply get in touch with our team of Ski Specialists. You can call them on 0131 243 8097 or request a tailor-made quotation online.