Tigh-Na-Mara’s Grotto Spa has been named number one in Canada.
The Parksville spa earned the title from Spas of America, an international spa and wellness travel website ranking spas across the Americas and within Canada.
While the Grotto Spa is no stranger to awards — it’s been historically named the number one spa on Vancouver Island and in B.C. — this is the first time it’s received top honours nationally.
“I’m really excited,” said spa director Paulina Alexander.
“Our team is fantastic and in my heart we’ve always been number one in the country but to win largely based on our guests and peers in the industry is such an honour.”
One of the most memorable parts of the Grotto Spa is its unique mineral pool designed to emulate a natural stone grotto, detoxifying the body and rejuvenating the spirit.
Alexander said the entire spa was built around the mineral pool so it’s been a central part of their signature spa treatment from the early days.
The Grotto Spa has a large team, including registered massage therapists, aestheticians, hair stylists and a high-end culinary team responsible for the creation of the “endless tapas” experience which guests enjoy in their robes.
Alexander said the spa has been supported by a loyal, large following of local clientele; as well as by guests who come from all over the world.
“What people love about our spa is it’s not pretentious,” she said.
“It’s in a really beautiful West Coast setting and our services and treatments are delivered in a genuinely caring way.”
Tigh-Na-Mara general manager Paul Drummond said he’s proud of the Grotto Spa team for their dedication and commitment to guests.
“We truly are a destination resort and spa and sincerely appreciate our relationship with Spas of America which has been for nearly a decade,” said Drummond.
Spas of America also ranked the Grotto Spa as the number five spa in the Americas out of more than 500.
Spas of America president Craig Oliver said the spa and wellness industry has continued to grow in 2015.
“A lower Canadian dollar is making our already beautiful destinations more attractive to global spa and wellness consumers,” said Oliver.
“Trends we’ve noticed in the past year include consumers having a renewed focus on fitness and health, and an increased draw to spa and wellness experiences offered in authentic, natural outdoor locations are on the rise. Spa and wellness travel offers people a chance to take a step back, enjoy moving slow, and focus on what is truly important.”
To see the complete list of the Top 50 Spas in Canada and Top 100 Spas in the Americas visit www.spasofamerica.com.
