Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aküam Spa Muskoka? What is the Kabin experience?
Aküam Spa Muskoka is envisioned as a place of transformative rest in the beauty of Muskoka. While the larger spa is currently still in development, we are pleased to offer you the chance to come to our unique, private contrast therapy experience centered around the beautifully appointed log Kabin. The Kabin at Aküam is designed for intimate groups of up to 8 guests where you enjoy exclusive access to the spa site.
What is the nordik cycle?
There are many names for the nordik cycle – contrast therapy, hydrotherapy, thermal therapy, nordic therapy and each of them involve the experience of hot, cold and rest as part of the cycle. Our hot experiences include; a wood fired sauna and hot tub and our cold elements include; cold plunges, cold showers, ice buckets and snow (weather permitting). The goal of the nordik cycle is to safely expose your body to thermal stress (with hot and cold elements) with rest after each exposure. For more information on the benefits, see the Global Wellness Institute site.
What to expect?
Our exclusive private group experience allows you to create your own wellness journey and to choose your own adventure.
Start Time: 15 minutes
Arrive at your session start time and one of our team members will greet you to sign appropriate waivers, familiarize you with the space and explain the contrast therapy cycles. Place your belongings and phone in the cubbies and change into your bathing suit and robe.
Nordik Therapy Cycle – 3 cycles at approximately 50 minutes each
Hot – Choose either hot tub or sauna 15-20 minutes
Cold – Choose cold shower, cold bucket, cold plunges, snow (weather dependent) – 10 seconds – 5 minutes max
Rest – Find a relaxing place to rest: Muskoka room, loft/lounge with red light therapy, outdoor fire pits, hammocks, egg chairs on porch
Repeat – Alternate between hot/cold elements or do the same cycle over again – your choice
End time: 15 minutes
Change out of your bathing suit and place towels/robes in hampers, grab your belongings and our team member will check you out. Enjoy the rest of your day.
When should I arrive?
Your 3-hour wellness journey begins at your start time. Arrive as early as 10 minutes before that time to find parking and meet your host. Early arrivals will not be permitted, as your session begins at your start time.
What if I arrive late?
Your 3-hour wellness journey has been scheduled for you and your group, due to other bookings we will not be able to extend your stay and welcome you to enjoy your scheduled booking.
What should I bring?
Please bring a swimsuit, sandals and a refillable water bottle (not glass). Change rooms with towels and robes will be provided upon your arrival.
Is Aküam weather dependent?
The Kabin at Aküam Spa Muskoka can be enjoyed in all weather conditions, which enhances the experience. No rain checks are provided. There are plenty of indoor and outdoor relaxation areas to enjoy in all seasons and weather conditions.
Aküam Spa Muskoka Etiquette
The Kabin at Aküam Spa Muskoka is a wellness journey where you and your guests choose your own adventure.
- Guests must be 19+ to visit the spa.
- Cell phones are discouraged throughout the space so that you have time to disconnect and experience connection with nature, yourself and others.
- Bathing suits are required at all times.
- There is no smoking or vaping on the spa site.
- Your exclusive use of the property allows you and your guests to enjoy as you wish. Want to bring your book club = absolutely. Celebrating a milestone – YES! Looking for a silent experience – you are welcome to quiet your inner and outer voice.
Sauna Etiquette at Aküam
The wood fired sauna can be enjoyed in all weather conditions with a beautiful window to view the outdoors. When using a sauna, please leave everything outside the sauna – no water bottles, phones, sunglasses or shoes are allowed inside the sauna. Please sit or lay on a sauna towel to trap your sweat and body oils during the sauna experience. Upon leaving the sauna, shower in the cold shower and gently wipe off all sweat and water from your body prior to beginning the rest portion of the cycle.
Can I book a corporate group training or a holiday party?
Yes, we offer the opportunity to welcome corporate guests or other groups for training or celebration. Please contact us at hello@akuamspa.com to request additional information.
How does the booking work?
Minimum booking price is allocated for 4 people, additional guests can be added up to 8 people. You are welcome to come solo or as a couple but the base price remains the same for less than 4 guests.
Food & Drink
No outside food or drink allowed. Due to the presence of animals and insects, all food must be consumed inside the Kabin. Drinks may be consumed throughout the spa property. Coffee, tea and water are provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle (not glass) to refill throughout your stay. No alcohol is permitted on site.
Do you have massage therapy or other treatments?
At this time, we do not offer massage therapy or other treatments. Your 3-hour wellness journey is self-guided throughout the spa site. Special events may include additional offerings and those will be listed on our booking page, as appropriate.
Who should not engage in the nordik cycle experience?
Check with your doctor prior to engaging in nordik/contrast therapy experiences. This therapy is not recommended for people who are pregnant, have cardiovascular conditions, epilepsy, open sores or rashes, infectious disease, respiratory disease, incontinence or fever/illness. Guests will not be permitted to use the spa facility if they are experiencing any of the above conditions.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation (48+ hours before reservation) – Eligible for a full refund.
Cancellations (under 48 hours before reservation) – No refunds are available, and a spa credit will be issued for future use.
Very rarely, your reservation may be affected by unexpected operational issues – power outages, severe weather, etc.. In such rare circumstances, Aküam Spa Muskoka may need to cancel or modify your reservation.
Please email us at hello@akuamspa.com if you need to modify your reservation.
Do you have gift certificates available?
Yes, gift certificates can be purchased on our website in increments of $100, $250, $500.
Do you have overnight accommodations?
No, we do not offer any overnight accommodations and after your 3-hour nordik cycle experience, we welcome you to stay at the many hotels and overnight accommodators in Muskoka.
Our New Name
A Vision Driven by Community
“We are thrilled to be able to offer this caliber of wellness tourism to the Muskoka community,” says David Thatcher, Founder and Chief Relationship Officer at Aküam Spa Muskoka. “Our commitment to this area drives our desire to create a global destination featuring thoughtfully designed circuits of heat, cold, and rest, offering a holistic approach to health set against the iconic backdrop of Muskoka’s natural beauty. We believe the benefits of hydrotherapy are a perfect match for the natural serenity of Muskoka, and we are proud to create a space where both locals and visitors can find holistic health year-round.”
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