The Big Chill

Savvy travelers are heading north for spa adventures with ‘coolcations’.

Header photo: Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel

As global warming continues to turn up the heat around the world, the trend of “coolcations” or vacationing and spa-going in colder climates is growing.

Torunn Tronsvang, founder of Up Norway, an Oslo-based bespoke travel agency, says that, “beyond just the appeal of milder temperatures, there are compelling health reasons to consider a coolcation.

“Cooler environments and activities can promote better sleep, reduce inflammation, and improve respiratory function,” she says. “For those dealing with heat-related health issues or simply looking to refresh their minds and bodies, cooler climates offer a natural remedy.”

The Rise of the Coolcation

The move of travelers to colder climates, especially those with the pocketbook power to travel to northern destinations in North America, Europe, and Asia, is a growing trend according to the Global Wellness Institute.

“For more than two years, we’ve been referring to travelers seeking and spending vacations in cooler destinations. This is now gaining important traction,” says Thierry Malleret, an economist who writes a monthly blog, Wellness Barometer for the Institute.

“Luxury travel platforms and networks report that a rising number of their clients (up to 82% in a survey led by Virtuoso) are considering 2024 destinations with more temperate weather. Accordingly, Europe, Scandinavia, the Baltics, and Scotland are surging in popularity, to the detriment of Mediterranean destinations.

“As global warming accelerates, this coolcationing trend will inevitably accelerate in tandem, with profound implications on real estate investment and wellness tourism. In the northern hemisphere, northern destinations will capture much of the upside...it’s happening slowly. Slowly, but irrevocably.”

“Cooler environments and activities can promote better sleep, reduce inflammation, and improve respiratory function.”

— Torunn Tronsvang, founder of Up Norway

The Allure of Cold Climate Spas

What makes these chilly retreats so appealing? For many, it’s the perfect blend of contrast and comfort. Picture yourself immersed in a steaming outdoor hot spring, surrounded by pristine snow-covered landscapes. Or imagine stepping out of a warm sauna to take an exhilarating plunge into an icy lake. These experiences offer more than just Instagram- worthy moments; they are said to provide tangible health benefits as well.

Health Benefits of Cold Exposure

Proponents of cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, cite numerous potential health benefits:

• Improved circulation: Exposure to cold causes blood vessels to constrict and then dilate, potentially improving overall circulation.

• Reduced inflammation: Cold therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help with pain relief and recovery from physical exertion.

• Boosted immune system: Regular exposure to cold may stimulate the production of white blood cells, potentially strengthening the immune system.

• Enhanced mental clarity: The shock of cold exposure can increase alertness and clarity while also potentially reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

• Better sleep: Some studies suggest that exposure to cold temperatures before bedtime can improve sleep quality.

The Psychological Appeal

Beyond the physical benefits, coolcations offer a unique psychological appeal:

• Stress reduction: The serene winter landscapes and peaceful environments of many cold climate spas provide an ideal setting for mental relaxation and stress relief.
• Sense of adventure: Coolcations often combine spa treatments with winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or ice fishing, appealing to those who seek both relaxation and adventure.

Popular Coolcation Destinations

As the trend grows, several destinations have emerged as hotspots for cold climate spa enthusiasts:

Canadian Cool

Canada is home to many legacy spas and grand hotels, which traditionally marketed their coolcation vibes to travelers from the 1900s to today. The grand dame hotels in the Fairmont and Four Seasons chains have pride of place with Fairmont having set its footprint in the snow here in the Gilded Age of the 1880s.

Banff and Whistler are also world-class ski destinations that offer coolcationers options that include ski and snow culture along with cold climate spa options.

The Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs, for instance, offers three waterfalls pools and a European mineral pool along with a full menu of massage, facials, and bodywork.

Banff’s newest spa, Meadow Spa & Pools at the Moose Hotel, offers a spa hot pool as well as a hot pool on the rooftop, along with a dry sauna to complement the spa’s treatment menu.

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Whistler, one of North America’s largest ski resorts, has an outdoor hot pool and three whirlpools along with a cedar sauna.

Canada’s Great White North also extends east to Quebec where Spa Eastman offers week-long themed wellness retreats as well as shorter stays. The spa has cold/warm alternating treatments that utilize cold comforts like an ecological pond and a Kneipp circuit of basins plunges for the arms and legs. Two full-sized pools and an igloo shower with a fine mist of peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils round out the chill offerings. There are also nearly 10 miles of hiking trails through pristine Quebec wilderness in which to encounter the joys of being chilly.

Norway’s Frosted Treats

Not just the mythic home of Disney’s Princess Elsa, Norway is also home to a traditional cold weather spa culture that blends high Scandi- style along with cutting-edge wellness trends and treatments.

Take the famed Urban Oslofjord Plunge at Oslo saunas located along the harbor promenade in the heart of the city center. Travelers can enjoy a private morning sauna session at the Badstuforening prior to a jump into the Oslofjord. Open year-round, this daring dive offers a rejuvenating start to the day while being immersed in the cityscape.

The Arctic Plunge at Isfjord Radio is a remote plunge experience at Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel at The Svalbard Islands, located in the Arctic Ocean, halfway between Norway and the North Pole. The destination is known for its rugged, remote terrain of glaciers and frozen tundra sheltering polar bears, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, and Arctic foxes. After a day of Arctic adventures, travelers can visit the sauna, an architectural gem, situated on the edge of the tundra with views of Isfjorden, Forlandet islands, and passing whales.

One of Norway’s newest spa/sauna experiences within a hotel, The Wood Hotel Bodø opened in May of 2024 in Northern Norway on the Rønvikfjellet mountainside. Chill-seekers can hike the hills and then warm up in the rooftop heated outdoor pool or unwind in the traditional sauna surrounded by modern Scandinavian design primarily in local woods.

With sustainability becoming increasingly important to travelers, many “coolcation” destinations are focusing on eco-friendly practices.

Sauna in the Antarctic

For spa-goers who want their body work in the coldest climes in the world, try one of Quark Expeditions journeys on shipboard and zodiacs to watch one of the world’s last empires of cold, close up and personal.

After a rewarding day in the Antarctic landscape, passengers onboard Quark’s newly refurbished Ocean Endeavour have a myriad of opportunities to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate in the small expedition ship’s bright, spacious new spa where treatments are culled from Irish-based Voya and centered on algae and other seaweeds.

Emerging Trends Within the Coolcation Niche

As the coolcation trend evolves, several subtrends are emerging:

Eco-friendly cold climate retreats

With sustainability becoming increasingly important to travelers, many coolcation destinations are focusing on eco-friendly practices:

•  Solar and geothermal powered facilities
• Locally sourced, organic cuisine
• Conservation-focused activities and education

•  Cryotherapy chambers for whole-body cold therapy
• Biometric tracking for personalized wellness plans
• Virtual reality meditation experiences

• Traditional arctic spa rituals
• Indigenous-led nature tours
• Local craft workshops (knitting, woodcarving, etc.)

Extreme coolcations

For the most adventurous travelers, some operators are offering extreme cold experiences:

• Ice diving
• Arctic survival courses
• Multi-day ice cave explorations

Challenges and Considerations

While coolcations offer unique experiences, there are some challenges to consider:

Health considerations

People with certain health conditions (heart problems, Raynaud’s disease, etc.) should consult a doctor before engaging in extreme cold activities. Also, some mountain spa destinations may require time for altitude acclimation.

Environmental impact

As coolcations gain popularity, there’s growing concern about the environmental impact on fragile arctic and subarctic ecosystems. Travelers should choose responsibly managed destinations and follow Leave No Trace principles.

The Future of Coolcations

As the wellness tourism industry continues to grow and evolve, coolcations are likely to become an increasingly significant niche. With travelers seeking ever more unique and transformative experiences, the allure of these cold climate retreats shows no signs of cooling off.

Whether you’re looking to boost your health, challenge yourself with new experiences, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of winter landscapes, a coolcation might be the refreshing change your wellness routine needs. So why not embrace the chill and discover the hot new trend in cold climate relaxation?

Planning Your Perfect Coolcation

If you're intrigued by the idea of a cold climate spa retreat, here are some tips to help you plan your ideal coolcation:

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEASON

While winter is the obvious choice for a true cold climate experience, don't overlook the potential of shoulder seasons:

• Winter (December- February): Peak season for most coolcation destinations, offering the full range of winter activities and the best chance for northern lights viewing in arctic regions.
• Early Spring (March- April): Often still cold enough for winter activities, but with longer daylight hours and potentially lower prices.
  • Late Autumn (October- November): Can offer early snow and northern lights opportunities, often with fewer crowds.

PACK APPROPRIATELY

Proper packing is crucial for enjoying your coolcation to the fullest:

• Thermal base layers
• Waterproof outer layers 
• Warm, waterproof boots
• Swimwear for hot springs and saunas
• Moisturizer and lip balm to combat dry, cold air

BALANCE ACTIVITIES AND RELAXATION

While spa treatments are a key component of a cool- cation, don't forget to take advantage of unique winter activities:

• Dog sledding
• Ice fishing
• Snowshoeing
• Northern Lights tours
• Ice Sculpture Workshops

CONSIDER YOUR COMFORT LEVEL

If you're new to cold climates, ease into the experience:

• Start with shorter outdoor excursions
• Alternate between cold exposure and warming up in saunas or hot springs
• Listen to your body and don't push beyond your comfort zone