Wellness at Canada’s Augustinian Monastery

With World Health Day coming up on April 7, your family can get ahead of the game planning some mind-body-relaxation getaways.

For the purists, there’s The Augustinian Monastery in Canada. Sounds a bit intense, yes, but this 400-year-old monastery shouldn’t go unexplored on your next family trip to Quebec — there’s a lot more to it than centuries-old practice.

Renewing your mind and body on vacation should be easier than many family vacations make it seem, but this monastery turned wellness facility, Le Monastère des Augustines, literally made it their business.

Located in Quebec City, Canada, this high-end wellness facility was designed completely around rest, relaxation and self-care. Sounds nice, right?

Based on ancient holistic remedies, practices and principles imparted by the Augustinian Sisters, wellness at the spa today focuses on mental and physical health, in tandem, through balance. Officially opening in 2009, the operation was protected by the Fédération des Monasteries des Augustines — a charitable trust protecting the work of the sisters, dating back to the 1600s.

For families interested a little more in the history of the historic locale than practice, check out the museum and archives for a step back in time. While there, stop in for a healthy meal at the world-class, on-site restaurant. All northern-inspired cuisine includes local, organic ingredients, all promoting health from within.

Stop by the boutique for natural, signature products with essential oil-based products, made according to the monastery’s practices, dating back to the 1600s.

Unwind during a daytrip to the spa with one of the menu items offered, or dive in with a package.

Looking to commit to the whole holistic process with an overnight stay? Choose from a variety of packages, including anything from one–night stays to seven, $85–300 per night. Prices include a tour, accommodations and a variety of dining, wellness activities and holistic consultations, depending on the package.

Explore high-level treatments, including mind-body overhaul tools such as meals, green juices, counseling, massages, breathing practices and specialized services focused on posture, mental health and reflexology — just to name a few. All guests participate in daily programs and activities, including mindful eating, meditation and rest in a unique and historic setting.

If this sounds more like a solo getaway, they have options for that, too.

For families with even the slightest interest in history, Quebec’s culture and a touch of spa-wellness fun, you can definitely find something interesting to see, do and experience at the monastery. Treat yourself with a quick revitalizing service, healthy meal or fragrant product to go.