The relaxation lounge has a cozy fireplace. Image courtesy Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
The Vibe: Luxe, yet serene, from the moment you step inside the spa doors you’re transported to a calming environment with soothing neutral hues from crisp white to ocean blue. You’ll also notice nature is subtly pulled into the space with elements like the butterfly wall, free-flowing waterfall and stone details. Other details that spa-goers will appreciate in the treatment rooms is the floor-to-ceiling draping that conceals the sink and other equipment, helping to keep you in a zen-like mood.
The nail salon. Image courtesy Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
The Facts: In April 2013, the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa became the first Canadian location to transform itself into the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand’s new global spa concept eforea: spa at Hilton. Covering an impressive 5,000 square-feet, there are 13 treatment rooms, including a room designed for men, complete with guy-friendly decor and amenities (that includes a TV). There is also a full-service hair and nail salon, an outdoor Zen garden great during the warm months to relax post-treatment, and an intimate dining space that sits up to 15 people, great for grabbing a light bite. As a spa guest you’ll also get access to Club Markham, where you can enjoy the whirlpool, steam room, sauna and indoor pool.
The steam capsule. Image courtesy Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
The Details: The range of treatments available is incredibly impressive. Rivaling any four-star hotel spa in the city, the eforea spa Hilton offers anything you could want to get relaxed and feeling pretty, including customized journey’s that include massage, face and body treatments. The line of products you’ll find include Kerstin Florian, the Australian line LI’TYA, and VitaMan, a line designed specifically for men.
From jet lag to body slimming treatments, there are plenty of body treatments to choose from. If you’re opting for a body treatment that includes mud or exfoliating scrubs, such as their Signature Full Body Repair ($195 for 80 min), you’ll have the opportunity to rinse off in their unique steam capsule. What’s essentially a lay-down shower, you get to relax while the jets do the work.
Another luxurious therapy offered at the spa is their waterbed soft pack — a feature you don’t see at many spas — one of three available to spa-goers in Canada. As soon as you lie down on it, it’s like floating on water and is a perfect way to soothe muscles pre-massage. The spa offers this with select body treatments and can also be an add-on for an extra $30.
You’ll also find a wide range of massage therapy options including Therapeutic Massage ($105 for 50 min) and Thai Yoga Massage ($120 for 50 min), which is done on a mattress and involves a lot of stretching!
A butterfly installation designed by a local artist. Image courtesy Hilton Hotels & Resorts.
For facials treatments eforea offers everything from firming to calming. Their not-so-basic facial great for those who are unsure of what to try, should opt for their Signature Correction Facial ($185 for 80 min) that will completely relax and refresh your skin. Starting with exfoliation and ending with a hydrating masque, you’ll also receive a hand and foot massage to really put you over the edge. Plus for those who are looking for a bit of plumping can try it with Microcurrent for an extra $35.
Before and after your treatment, there’s a open, yet quiet relaxation lounge area, complete with a cozy fireplace, water, selection of teas, healthy snacks, and a good stack of magazines (a spa must!).
Keep in Mind: The women’s locker-room can feel a bit crowded when there are more than two people getting ready. There is only one restroom and one shower, which doesn’t offer a ton of privacy. Also, you’ll want to bring a lock if you plan on using Club Markham, as this is a public gym and can be quite busy depending on what time of day you go, with a small row of lockers open to hotel guests.
Don’t Miss Out: Downtown Toronto spa-goers should consider venturing outside of the core to experience eforea for an intimate spa experience. Consider making it a day and have afternoon tea at the Essence of Unionville. Offered on the weekends between 3-5 p.m., it’s not your traditional tea with served tiered platters, but buffet-style with delicacies including finger sandwiches, French pastries, scones and cakes, created by their in-house pastry chef. Price: $18/person.
Where to Find:
Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa
eforea: spa at Hilton
8500 Warden Avenue
Markham, Ontario, L6G 1A5
hilton.com
