The spa on the corner of Yew and West 4th has changed hands a few times over the years. It has been Spa Ethos, Solarice Wellness Spa and now Spa on the Rocks. I live around the corner and have been fortunate enough to try them all. The overall aesthetic of the spa hasn’t changed much with each owner, but the experience certainly has. When Solarice took over the space and offered online deals with virtually every provider, the place quickly disintegrated. Thankfully, Spa on the Rocks has revived the special, indulgent, day spa experience I loved about Spa Ethos.
Most recently I had the opportunity to try an Eminence organic facial at Spa on the Rocks and was thrilled with my experience. I went a little early to take advantage of their eucalyptus steam room which was a great start to the day and a really nice perk to any treatment. The change room and the steam room are a bit tight, but otherwise really clean and well presented. Reception and staff were also polished and professional, even first thing in the morning!
My treatment started with a foot soak beside a glass fireplace. After visiting this location over a dozen times over the year, and sitting in this very lounge each time, this was the first time I ever saw the foot baths utilized. If you have ever attended the spa before, you will know what I mean. Anyway, this is a great perk. I am glad Spa on the Rocks has incorporated the foot baths.
My therapist, Susan, then took me upstairs for what was the most relaxing facial I have ever had. I usually book massages at spas because of my desire to relax, but I can honestly say that this facial was just as relaxing! The facial took place of a heated bed and included all the perks, exfoliates, masques, arm and leg massage, and even extractions (I realize not everyone wants extractions but I always feel ripped off if my facial doesn’t include them). Susan truly left me pampered head to toe.
At the end of every facial I usually start to cringe. Partly because it is almost over, and partly because I know the sales pitch for a variety of pricey products is about to begin. To my surprise, the sales pitch never came. My therapist, Susan, left me a useful card indicating products that would be helpful but skipped the whole uncomfortable high pressure sales pitch. A quick Yelp search produces numerous others reviewers rejoicing in the lack of product pushing common at most other spas.
My experience ended with a cup of tea beside the fire place. I lingered with some trashy celebrity magazines, a complementary granola bar and a cup of tea for a while, knowing that the serenity of the spa would come to an abrupt end when I walked out the doors. Overall, I had a wonderful experience and will definitely be back. The spa has certainly succeeded in elevating the customer experience; however, this doesn’t come without a cost. The spa prices are on par with other luxury spas in the city, but not necessarily affordable for most people. On Mondays, their facials are $99 and they do offer other specials from time to time too. With Mother’s Day coming up, a gift certificate for a facial is a no brainer.
Spa on the Rocks, 2200 W 4th Ave, (604) 734-3533, Spaontherocks.ca
Last modified: March 20, 2013
