58 G O I N G P L A C E S | W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 douglas little
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he hustle and bustle of the city melts away as you sink into the warm depths of the whirl-
pool. e only sounds are the whir of water jets and sighs of bliss. Snowflakes fall softly,
as even Mother Nature seems to understand the need for peace and quiet at ermëa,
a Scandinavian-inspired spa on Winnipeg's Crescent Drive.
Surrounded by elm and pine trees and charming wooden buildings, it's easy to forget you're
just 20 minutes from downtown Winnipeg and the stress of daily demands. Here, the only deci-
sion to make is just how to relax. Float away in the whirlpool, heated to 39 C, or stretch out in the
dry sauna. Slough away your worries with an invigorating self-exfoliation treatment before
being enveloped by the orange- or eucalyptus-scented steam rooms. Reap the benefits of
thermotherapy, such as muscle relaxation, improved sleep and an immune system boost, with a
dip in the polar bath – at an icy 10 C. Complement the thermal experience with a relaxing massage
or body treatment. Too many choices? It might be time to recline on a heated mattress in the quiet
area to contemplate your next move. After all, you wouldn't want to push yourself too hard. GP
www.thermea.ca; 775 Crescent Drive, adjacent to the golf course; day passes start at $45.
Nordic Bliss
by Lea Currie
LANDMARKS
