Alyeska’s new Nordic Spa is now open outside of Girdwood, Alaska. The 50,000 square foot spa has already welcomed its first guests. Nestled in the Chugach Mountains within a temperate rainforest where the brisk mountain air is perfect for Nordic Hydrotherapy. Alyeska Nordic Spa is opening in three phases. Phase one, which is now open, consists of six pools with varying temperatures, a sauna and a Himalayan salt rub exfoliation cabin. Yet to open are relaxation spaces and the barrel saunas.
Nordic hydrotherapy has become the latest trend in spas in Canada. It’s now spreading even further north into Alaska. Nordic hydrotherapy involves going from extremely warm waters to extremely cold waters. This type of water therapy involves soaking in hot pools and directly after, dunking into frigidly cold ones.
Originating in Scandinavia, hydrotherapy has been practiced there for many generations. The theory is that Nordic hydrotherapy can assist in decreasing aches and pains, boost the immune system and even take toxins out of the body.
“Your wellness journey will relax and rejuvenate you. Move through the hot and cold outdoor pools to invigorate and detoxify the body. Relax in the signature sauna and social relaxation spaces. Indulge in a massage treatment or a delicious meal at the bistro. Disconnect from the stresses of the outside world and reconnect with yourself, nature, and the ones you’re with,” writes Alyeska Nordic Spa.
The spa experience starts with a warm greeting from the front desk. They then give guests bracelets that lock their lockers. Sign some paperwork and it’s off to the spa. The locker rooms are bright with lockers, bathrooms and, the author’s personal favorite, the primping palace. Brushes, curling irons, flat irons, hairdryers and all of the other amenities needed when stepping out of the shower. Each placed perfectly at individual stations.
After the first round, guests then put on their robes and go to the towel reception area to pick up towels. Cold water and hot tea are offered right at the exit for guests to drink while in the pools. Ready to soak up the hydrotherapy, guests head outside. Pools dot the exterior and signs tell guests the temperature of each pool. Spend time getting as warm as possible in the varying jacuzzies, or in the sauna. Then, dunk into the cold plunge pools.
After the first round, put the robe back on and take a trip back inside for lunch. The menu has a section called zero proof, with drinks that don’t have any alcohol. There’s also a list of drinks that do. The restaurant has seating both downstairs and up. The gigantic picture window looks out to the front of the resort. Alternatively, order lunch and enjoy it outside as there’s a fireplace with plenty of seating. When lunch is done, it’s time for one (or two) more circuits. End the day in the spa’s Himalayan salt rub cabin and a warm shower.
The new Nordic Spa at Alyeska is an outdoor experience with warm, hot and cold pools, a sauna, and a Himalayan salt exfoliation. Surrounded by forest, guests can plunge from pool to pool at their own pace. Massages are also offered separately and come highly recommended by fellow reviewers. Come to Alyeska’s Nordic Spa and receive a 12 hour pass to the amenities. Add Alyeska’s Nordic Spa to the list of adventures when visiting Alaska. It is a worthwhile experience.
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