I spent an incredible day at Spa le Finlandais while visiting Montreal. Drawn by their thermal experience, I moved between pools and saunas inspired by different countries around the world.

I made it a point to visit every spot, giving you a chance to experience it with me. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape near Montreal to truly unwind, Spa le Finlandais is the perfect place. Here’s what to expect during your visit!

Spa le Finlandais

Spa le Finlandais, located in Rosemère, Quebec, just north of Montreal, is inspired by the Finnish tradition of sauna and thermal baths. The name reflects this deep connection to Finland, where saunas are used for relaxation and healing.

The spa’s mission is to provide a peaceful escape where guests can unwind and rejuvenate. With pools and saunas inspired by different countries, it offers a unique experience that promotes relaxation and wellness. Set along the quiet Mille Îles River, Spa le Finlandais is the perfect place to relax and recharge.

Here’s a look into my visit to the thermal experiences. If you’re looking for a specific area, feel free to skip ahead!

The Thermal Experience at Spa le Finlandais

The thermal experience at Spa le Finlandais is all about balancing heat and cold to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and detoxification.

Your body goes through a series of temperature changes, like moving from a sauna or steam room to a cold plunge pool, which helps to stimulate circulation, release toxins, and reduce muscle tension.

The heat opens up your pores, helping your body sweat out impurities, while the cold plunges tighten the skin and improve blood flow, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized.

This cycle not only helps with relaxation and stress relief but also boosts your overall well-being by improving your immune system and leaving you with a deep sense of calm and renewal.

The Baths

With eight types of pools, you truly have so many places to soak your worries away. The pools were based on different countries, which felt like I was truly traveling around the world. Here are the ones I tried!

Icelandic Hot Pools

Our soak started at the Icelandic Hot Pools. Inspired by the Blue Lagoon and other hot springs of Iceland. These two outdoor pools were large and had rocky surroundings.

We swam around, soaking in different spots and enjoying the sunshine on a cold late September day.

Neptune’s Grotto

I couldn’t pass up the chance to explore Neptune’s Grotto. This mysterious pool is partially covered, and I loved swimming inside to hide away from the chaos outside.

Once inside, I was surrounded by the flowing waterfall along the walls and warm bubbles massaging my body. It felt like a secret oasis, perfect for leaving all your worries behind.

This is also a quiet pool, so it was nice to have a moment away from the crowded areas of the spa. We were actually the ones in there when we went.

Helsinki Bubbles

Then there were the Helsinki Bubbles, my favorite soak of the day. These suspended, transparent bubbles are a total game-changer.

All you have to do is walk into the pool and pick your pod of choice. I curled up in one of these cozy pods, letting the warm water soothe me while gently rocking me back and forth.

I actually fell asleep in one of the pods for a few moments, just listening to the sound of the water around me.

The Turkish Bath

Next, we headed inside to the Turkish Bath, where the steam filled the air, and I relaxed beneath the soft glow of an oriental chandelier.

The room is beautifully designed with marbled vaults, earthenware, and mosaics, giving it a luxurious feel.

The Turkish bath is part of the sauna area and even features a cold plunge section, making it a perfect spot for the full thermal experience.

The pool was small, but since we were the only ones there, I had the chance to lie back and soak for a while. The lighting was fantastic, and I truly felt like I was in another country.

I couldn’t get a picture of this one because it was inside but trust me, it lived up to the hype!

Thermal Waterfall

For a unique thermal experience, head to the Thermal Waterfall, located outside at the center of the spa.

This is a quick and refreshing option where you can step under the cascading water and feel the warm streams hitting your skin, just like a gentle massage.

Between two elegant stone columns, come and slip under a fine cascade of hot water which will relax you from head to toe.

The Saunas of The World

After soaking, we headed into some of Spa Le Finalandia‘s saunas. You are supposed to do the sauna for twenty minutes before heading to the next step. Here are the ones I tried throughout the day.

Viking Sauna

We started with the Viking Sauna which is a unique sauna with glass windows. This lets you enjoy the heat and the beautiful views of of the Rivière-des-Mille-Îles!

Japanese Sauna

Then we tried the Japanese Sauna which uses infrared radiation rather than the intense heat of a traditional sauna. I loved the wooden cabin which was cozy but relaxing, thanks to the views outside.

Russian Sauna

My favorite one was the Russian Sauna, which blends the best of both worlds between a dry sauna and a steam bath.

The room is heated by a brick stove, and every so often, a light mist is released from the ceiling.

The decor—stone, wood, and ceramic—adds to the atmosphere, making it feel like you’re really getting a taste of Russia.

My favorite part was the ice buckets that you can bring inside with you to cool off during the sauna session.

They also had their own plunge pool which you are supposed to do after your session! We did it, and it was refreshing!

The Hammam

Finally, the Hammam was pure bliss. Inspired by ancient Roman baths, this steamy room helps open up your pores, detoxify your skin, and relax your muscles.

The warm, humid air promotes relaxation, and the misty atmosphere was perfect for clearing out my sinuses. It’s the kind of place you just lose yourself in.

Exfoliation Room

Located next to the hammam, it’s the perfect place to follow up your steam bath with an exfoliation treatment!

The room features salt falls and individual baskets, and the steady flow of water made it super easy to get a thorough salt treatment. My skin felt so soft and renewed afterward.

The Cold Plunges

I love cold plunges! Even though I avoid them for most of my time at the spa, once I get my body hot enough, I finally take the plunge. While most plunges are freezing, they feel amazing—like a shot of espresso for my entire body.

Arctic Basin

For a true test of courage, I braved the Arctic Basin. A cold pool that we enjoyed right after the sauna.

It’s a great way to firm up your skin and feel completely rejuvenated after sweating out all the toxins. Definitely an energizing experience!

Norwegian Falls

If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, the Norwegian Falls are perfect.

The cool water was the ultimate refreshment after enjoying the heat, and the strong force of the falls worked wonders on my circulation.

Relaxation Areas

Exploring the rest areas was one of my favorite parts of the spa. This should be the final step in your thermal experience. After the cold plunge, you will feel awake but ready to relax. Here are the rooms I got to relax in.

Indian Meditation Lounge

For a bit of peace, the Indian Meditation Lounge was my go-to spot.

I spent an hour lounging around in one of these super comfy rocking chairs, surrounded by 270° of gorgeous views of the spa and its serene surroundings.

It’s right next to the central fireplace and the Tea Salon, which I will talk about now.

World Tea Fair

I couldn’t pass up the World Tea Fair, which is a small area that has a selection of self-serve teas, for free! It’s like a world tour in a cup.

I must have drank four cups of tea during my visit. I loved trying the different blends of my soft robe while reading my book in the relaxation room.

Multi-Sensory Experience

One of my favorites was the Multi-Sensory Experience area. You get to sink into these deep armchairs that feel like huge cocoons, and let your mind drift away.

The soothing music, calming wall projections, and soft, colorful lighting create this dreamy atmosphere that totally takes you out of the real world. It’s like a mini-vacation for your mind.

The view from the windows on a late fall day was beyond relaxing.

Where Is Spa le Finlandais?

It’s important to note that your entry slot for the thermal experience is for four hours. Honestly, that was plenty of time to enjoy all of the attractions.

If you do book a treatment, you will have access to the thermal experience for the entire day.

How Much Does It Cost?

The rates can change, depending on the high season or the weekend. We paid 64 CAD which is about $44 for a 4-hour pass.

You can do the entire day for a higher price. It was honestly quite a steal as most spas in Quebec are more expensive.

Where Is Spa le Finlandais?

The worldly spa is 40 minutes north of Montreal, making it a great day trip or an overnight stay.

Explore More of Quebec

I definitely recommend spending the day at Spa Le Finlandais! Whether you’re visiting Montreal or simply passing through this area of Quebec.

The other spa I love is Strøm Spa: The Best Nordic Spa In Quebec City!

Want to explore? Here are all the Nordic Spas & Hot Springs I visited, all around the world.

We visited during our trip to Montreal. Where we spent our time sipping in some hidden bars. Here are Montreal’s Speakeasies: The Best Hidden Cocktail Bars!

I also go the opportunity to Joe Beef: Anthony Bourdain’s Favorite Restaurant in Montreal!

Want more of Quebec? Here are all my Canada Travel Guides!