For my birthday this year, I knew I wanted to treat myself. I had recently hit the three month mark at my new job, which meant benefits had kicked in, and of course the first thing that came to mind was a massage! When I was looking for spas to go to, I stumbled upon a list of places to check out for free goodies on your birthday. Did you know Elmwood Spa offers a free three-course lunch in its Terrace restaurant when you spend over $119 during your birthday month? When I found out, I was sold!
Here’s what it was like spending the whole day at Toronto’s Elmwood Spa!
First Impressions:
I walked into Elmwood Spa with little expectations. I have only ever been to Hungarian baths and massage therapists who practice out of my local gym, so I wasn’t sure what to expect at an upscale spa. I booked everything over the phone, which made checking in a breeze. Once I signed a waiver for my massage and my facial, I was then free to go upstairs to get changed!
I brought a towel, shampoo/conditioner, and body wash with me, but I didn’t need any of it.
I was offered a robe as soon as I arrived, and there were plenty of towels to go around. When I showered there was a variety of shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and more all at my disposal.
After changing, I was able to lock everything in my locker, free of charge and there was even an adorable box for jewellery. I noticed some people who took their phones with them, but I left mine in the locker for a fully relaxing experience.
Before heading onto the water therapies, I was able to soak in a hot tub inside the changerooms. Since the pools are co-ed, the changeroom is a good place to soak if you’d like a bit more privacy.
The Water Therapies:
The water therapies are free with services over $100, but you can also buy a day pass to hang out in the pools for $25 if you’re spending less than $100, or $50 if you’re not receiving a service.
The water therapies area has a fairly large pool, a hot tub, a steam room, and a licensed lounge to hang out in. It’s best to do this BEFORE your services, so I got there about an hour early to check it all out. It’s a great space to bring a book, listen to a podcast, or some music if you want to relax by the pool.
The Massage:
Since I often get massages at the gym that target specific parts of my body, I figured I’d go with something a bit more “relaxing” so decided on a full body 55-minute massage. Elmwood Spa offers an Aromatherapy option, and I decided to give it a try!
I had the opportunity to choose from a variety of scents, but I went with my fave, eucalyptus.
While I waited for my massage, I was offered herbal tea, hot or cold, or water. I enjoyed sipping on my drink and flipped through a magazine until it was my turn.
The massage itself was extremely relaxing, but I do wish I had asked for a bit more pressure in certain spots.
I definitely plan on coming back with my partner, as they also offer side-by-side massages for couples.
The Facial:
This was my very first facial, so I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I dipped my toes in with the least expensive facial on the menu, but I definitely still felt pampered.
The service not only included education around what was going on, but also on some of the products that would work for my skin that I could purchase in the gift shop.
I was also surprised by a foot massage and hot towels on my feet as well that were changed throughout the 40-minute service. I will definitely be back for a facial in the future!
My skin was glowing immediately after the facial, and for days after as well.
The Lunch:
As much as I loved my time in the water, the massage, and the facial, I would be lying if I said the lunch wasn’t a highlight of the day.
You get to choose an appetizer, a main, and a dessert from the prix-fixe menu, and I was honestly stuffed!
I tried the vegan butternut squash soup, the braised short rib, and the cheesecake and I was completely satisfied!
Final Thoughts:
As someone who hasn’t spend a lot of time in spas, this was an amazing first experience.
I felt extremely pampered, and the customer service was top notch. Everyone wished me a happy birthday, and were always there to lend a hand with anything I needed. I’m SO excited to head back to Elmwood Spa down the road!
Featured Image: Instagram/@spaincmag
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