From spa visits to firelit cabins, Jasper is the dream escape where visitors can relax and embrace that slow, mountain-town pace.
With their jagged beauty and rugged terrain, the mountains that surround Jasper might not at first blush seem like an ideal setting for rest and repose. But their grandeur is great for more than just heart-pounding adventure; the artistry of nature can take your breath away in gentler ways too.
Reconnect with quiet peace and find serenity within yourself via one of these seven relaxing pastimes.
1 Soak Away The Stress
Nothing melts stress like submersing it in deliciously warm water. At the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, your extensive wellness menu itinerary can include the eucalyptus steam room and sauna, a new 20-person outdoor hot tub and heated pool (hello views!) and customized treatments at the Reflections Spa. Or, if your self-care includes a workout regimen head over to the state-of-the-art fitness facility. It's no wonder that the spa was rated the #3 spa in Canada and the #1 spa in Alberta.
2 Knead Aside The Tension
In addition to a full and diverse treatment list that includes facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing and tinting, reiki, body wraps and reflexology, the Mountain Wellness Day Spa(operating out of the Sawridge Inn and Chateau Jasper) boasts an enviable massage service. Choose from hot stone massage, Thai massage or the classic full body massage and let the therapist's hands work their magic. And if you're relaxing with a partner or friend, the Melting Moments couples massage finishes with a glass of champagne and orange juice.
3 Walk Toward Tranquility
Walking is well known to clear the mind and calm the nerves. Explore Jasper's many trails, ranging in difficulty from flat and paved to winding and wild, either by yourself or with an experienced local guide like Paula Beauchamp via her interpretive tour company Walks & Talks Jasper.
4 Enjoy Some Retail Therapy
It's true that money can't buy happiness, but it can buy gear and souvenirs and that's basically the same thing. Stock up on all your outdoorsy goodies at Edge Control, or if you prefer your shopping infused with an extra dose of beauty then head to the Beauvert level of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge to peruse the fine art offerings at Mountain Galleries.
5 Indulge In Comfort Food
Nothing soothes a shattered nerve like pizza; head to Famoso Pizzeria for their mouthwatering and authentic neapolitan creations. Other local favourites in the comfort food category include sipping a tea at Coco's Cafe, or the bison meatloaf with mashed potatoes from Evil Dave's Grill, or even a classic burger from Jasper Brewing Co.
6 Practice Peaceful Yoga
This self-care option should surprise precisely no one. Dedicated yogis and downward dog novices both should enjoy the drop-in classes at Jasper Wellness, which offers daily yoga for all levels and experiences.
7 Recline Fireside In A Cabin
If we could spend every evening cuddled up by the fireplace in a cozy wood cabin, we would not be mad. Jasper's cabin heritage is felt in many of the local accommodations, whether it's through the building's overall structure or in the aesthetic decor. Explore 10 unique cabin rentals here.
