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'O' is for opulence

By Laura Osborne

A swish new spa has opened in Lake Ontario's most historic inn: O Spa draws inspiration from ancient Rome to create a high-end wellness retreat that's also high design.

Niagara's vineyards are the flavor du jour for wine aficionados, but now the region has developed a new taste… for spas. O Spa, a brand-new retreat in the town’s landmark Oban Inn, offers sophisticated tranquility with a nod to ancient Rome. What better way to unwind after a day of uncorking?

When Emperor Agrippa designed and created the first thermae (public baths) in 25 BC, the Roman ritual of daily bathing was born. Thousands of years later, this Roman tradition is still being upheld.

O Spa's philosophy is based on the Roman ideal of incorporating well-being into your daily routine. Owner Si Wai Lai has created a welcoming space that exudes health and vitality but also reflects the surrounding wine country. (The vaulted brick ceiling in the Tranquil Room was inspired by – what else? – a wine cellar.) "I wanted something comfortable and luxurious but also livable," she says. Her motivational mantra – "As you believe, so you become" – is emblazoned across one of the walls, and if you believe in haute pampering, you've come to the right place.

The most decadent treatment on O Spa's extensive menu is the four-day Aromasoul Ritual Journey. This unique system of wellness rituals features four lavish treatments based on Oriental, Mediterranean, Indian and Arabic philosophies to replenish vitality and impart a feeling of rejuvenation and balance. Start with the Oriental aromasoul to stimulate; the Mediterranean aromasoul to relax; the Indian aromasoul to balance and the Arabian aromasoul to calm and strengthen.

Post-treatment, stop by the inn's dining room for some indulgence of the food variety: Cookbook author and celebrity chef Tony de Luca whips up lavish dishes – from cider-glazed tenderloin of pork with smoked apple and foie gras ravioli and licorice caramel to tempura soft-shell crab with avocado dipping mayo. Tony's wine country-inspired cooking keeps guests coming back to the table time after time. After all, Rome wasn't built in a day.

O Spa (the Oban Inn), 160 Front St., 905-468-2165, www.obaninn.ca/ospa

Photo credit: O Spa