The Hills are Alive with Wellness

Driving through the Northumberland Hills is a bit like being in a musical. There's an amazing chorus of trees and valleys at each turn, although they can be enjoyed at your own pace.

On this brisk, clear February day, I found myself driving into some amazing topography, "the Hills" (as many locals say). I was getting close to my destination, Northumberland Heights Wellness Retreat & Spa, in the western part of Northumberland County, two hours from Toronto, and just over three hours from Ottawa.

I was feeling relaxed. Out of the city, enjoying the slower pace of driving on winding country roads. After a few more dips and turns, I was in the front parking lot of Northumberland Heights, a low level lodge, with very easy access for those who need it.

The large sliding glass doors of the entry opened automatically to a reception area with a focal-point water fountain. Surprisingly, this was the former home of a well-known local schnitzel house and banquet hall. Today, it's evident that the new owners, part of the international Ozone group, have spared no expense (or creative thought) in renovating the lodge to upscale spa standards.

Northumberland Heights is known for its Indian wellness influence. At the entrance, the experience is gently immersive, with soothing eastern music, the sound of water, and the fragrance of earthy herbs. Northumberland Heights specializes in Ayurveda therapies, but also offers many other options on its full spa menu.

Ayurveda, meaning “the science of life", predates modern medicine. It is a holistic system that encompasses both mind and body. Not too far into my visit, I was able to meet the Spa's own doctor of Ayurvedic medicine. I did not receive any Ayurveda therapies while there, but was introduced to its concept in one of the main treatment areas, as well as in the bright, circular yoga space overlooking the grounds.

Today's agenda was a Luminous Sea & C facial using a freeze-dried seaweed to help gain firmer skin. (The ingredients smelled lovely, by the way.) My treatment ended with a soft-lift off mask, selected by my therapist for my skin type. I did not try the Spa's Caviar Indulgence Facial, but after experiencing what was one of the top 5 facials in my life here (and believe me, I have had many), I will happily save up my toonies for their ultra-lavish concoction made from sturgeon eggs. 

A wonderful intermission in my day was the whole-food inspired 3-course lunch in the Spa's bright dining room overlooking the Hills. The chef's menu had selections for all diet preferences. On this day, I was able to start with a kale caesar salad and a special order of avocado toast. I finished with a small but a memorable crème brulée, perfect in size given the generous tribute to rich eggs, sugar and whole cream.

Another highlight of my treatment day at Northumberland Heights was the use of a private steam shower in my own treatment room. After careful instructions from my therapist, I was left alone to adjust the shower, steam and jet settings, customizing my steam shower therapy session to be as invigorating or as relaxing as I desired. Added treats were the samples of Pevonia skin and hair therapy products, as well as the abundance of plush towels. 

Later in the afternoon, I was offered Northumberland Heights' High Tea in the library. I was still too full from lunch to partake in any of the petit fours or other baked goods. My hostess insisted I should try some. She packaged up a few for my own take-away tasting. And then I departed by way of the country roads.

Would I venture back to Northumberland Hills?

Most certainly.

Driving through the Hills is wonderful. And finding this unique spa, with its Ayurveda treatments, day-spa or overnight packages, is something to sing about.

NORTHUMBERLAND HEIGHTS WELLNESS RETREAT & SPA

795 Northumberland Heights Rd., Cobourg

905-372-7500 • NorthumberlandHeights.com

By Heather Starke

*Article written based on experiences prior to COVID-19.