Did someone say spa? We don’t know about you, but we are all about some rest and relaxation. If you’re planning a weekend getaway to Montreal or you’re living in the city and looking for a quick escape, we’d like to introduce you to Bota Bota. Once you’ve tried it, you can’t help but go back.
Bota Bota floating spa is an urban spa experience on a boat, tucked away in the Old Port of Montreal on the St. Lawrence River. Since 2010, it has been offering a unique take on spas with a gorgeous view of Old Montreal. Bota Bota boasts five decks filled with various water circuits and many relaxation bays. Once aboard, you leave everything behind and are no longer in the hustle and bustle of the city.
Image: Shawn K. Benet/Bota Bota
If you have a bachelorette party coming up or desire some quality time with your partner or best friend, we couldn’t think of a better place to host your unique spa day. We guarantee you will leave there feeling rejuvenated. You can build your day according to your preferences by way of the various treatments, including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. If you’re more into the water circuits, there are two saunas, a eucalyptus steam bath, an outdoor whirlpool bath and cold showers. The spa even hosts several special events during the week like after-work socials, Pilates and yoga, to name a few.
Image: Shawn K. Benet/Bota Bota
We had the chance to visit Bota Bota and spent a day of pampering and relaxation there. It was love at first sight with the new Bota Bota Gardens, Montreal’s one and only four-season urban oasis. Built with recycled ship containers, it is located on the grounds and connected to the boat. It even has a little cove with hammocks and we’re all about that. The garden features an indoor and outdoor thermal spa, a steam bath, a whirlpool bath, a fireplace, relaxation zones, an area reserved for yoga and a 60 × 100-foot pool. Open all year long, this is sure to become a ritual for Bota Bota customers in the heart of Montreal.
What to eat after a full day of rest? You don’t have to go far since the spa has a top-notch restaurant that’s affiliated with Auberge Saint-Gabriel, one of the finest dining experiences around. You can dine on the floating terrace with a picturesque view of Old Montreal.
Image: Shawn K. Benet/Bota Bota
We could go on about all the reasons why you should visit, but if you’ve yet to discover this treasure, we recommend you put it on your to-do list. Bota Bota is a well-crafted spa experience with great service, ambience and decor that brings a blissful feeling with each visit. From the moment you step on the boat, get ready to experience a mental getaway unlike any other.
