PERK UP
Get a coffee buzz without drinking a drop of java: the Au Naturel Wellness and Medical Spa in the Brookstreet Hotel (525 Legget Dr. 613-271-3393, www.brookstreethotel.com/spa) offers an array of coffee-based skin treatments, including the Javalicious Massage, Mochaccino Hydrofusion Wrap, Espresso Splash Pedicure, and Cappuccino Foam Manicure. In need of a moisturizing pick-me-up? Try the Invigorating Coffee Scrub ($95), a Vichy shower treatment in which you’re massaged with a scrub made of fresh coffee beans, which is then rinsed off under a cascade of warm water. Caffeine, the active ingredient, relieves inflamed tissues and diminishes the appearance of fatty deposits.

SOUNDS DECISION
Why go for a traditional massage when you can try Holtz Spa’s (45 Rideau St., 613-241-7770; 1-877-241-8889. www.holtzspa.com) exclusive Sacred Sound Healing Ritual ($195)? Revel in an aromatherapy massage surrounded by a variety of meditative melodies like the Tibetan Healing Bowls and Crystal Singing Bowls that are designed to send soothing vibrations through the skin. It’s the perfect way to retune your body and mind.

NATURAL BEAUTY
At Daya Spa and Wellbeing Boutique (200 Dalhousie St., 613-244-4333, www.dayaspa.ca), the motto is ‘organic handmade products only’. Try the delish Cucumber Mint Body Wrap ($75), in which your body is cleansed with a Cucumber Mint Sugar Scrub and swaddled in the Cucumber Mint Body Wrap. Then, while bundled up, you’re treated to a blissful scalp and head massage. This succulent affair finishes off with an all-over Cucumber Parsley Massage. Yum!

SWEET ESCAPE
Tucked away in Gatineau Park beside a 28-foot waterfall is the Wakefield Mill Inn and Spa (60 Mill Rd., 819-459-1838, www.wakefieldmill.com). If you and a loved one want to escape the city mid-week, try the Special Day package ($275), which is available Sunday to Thursday. Luxuriate in an afternoon massage together, and then soak in the outdoor hot tub. After you’re dry and dressed for the evening, partake in pre-dinner cocktails in front of the fire, then savour a three-course gourmet meal in the Penstock dining room.

BEST FOOT FORWARD
Treat your feet to the Deluxe Pedicure ($85) at the York Street Spa (11 York St., 613-562-2121, www.yorkstreetspa.com). They’ll be soaked and gently exfoliated before being swathed in seaweed, given a head-lulling massage, and pampered with a pedicure and paraffin wax to leave them sandal sexy. You can also get the same type of experience for your hands with the Deluxe Manicure ($55). Your hands will be bathed and then exfoliated with crushed walnut shells, lavender, and lemon. Next, they’re hydrated and massaged, and then treated to a manicure and paraffin wax. Pure indulgence.

Publication Date: 4/2008