Award-winning spa set to open first Canadian location in Toronto

An international and award-winning Spanish wellness brand is migrating north and opening its first Canadian location this year. 

AIRE Ancient Baths recently announced that it plans to open one of its largest locations–it will span 23,000 square feet–in Toronto’s Fashion District, a busy area located between Spadina and Bathurst and Front Street and Queen Street West

The spa, which will feature nine thermal pools (including a wine bath infused with Spanish tempranillo grapes, an outdoor bath, a saltwater float, a hydrotherapy jets bath and a cold pool), a dry sauna, 12 massage rooms and two warm marble beds, is slated to open in the Portland Commons (510A Front St. W.). 

Since AIRE’s location boasts historical significance–it’s taking shape inside a restored Edwardian Classical building originally built in 1912 for the Copp Clark Publishing Company–it’s fitting that ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman traditions inspire the brand’s offerings.  

As for services, a news release states that guests will be guided through a circuit of thermal baths at varying temperatures. Spa attendees in Toronto will get to enjoy the various pools by candlelight–a signature feature at the company’s other locations. 

In a news release, AIRE said Toronto guests can partake in the spa’s signature wine experience, which includes a 30-minute private wine bath, a cranial massage with a hair mask and a 45-minute full body massage. After that, participants can continue through the thermal circuit and enjoy a wine and cheese pairing. 

The spa will also offer its Orange Garden experience, which includes a full-body massage, a 25-minute Gua Sha facial massage, access to the baths, and juice. 

“From our origins in Spain to our global destinations, AIRE has always honoured ancient bathing traditions while creating transformative, sensory experiences,” said Amadeo Serra, CEO, in a statement. 

“Toronto’s international spirit, creative energy, and vibrant cultural scene make it the perfect home for our Canadian debut.”

The new Toronto property, one of the largest in the AIRE collection worldwide, marks the brand’s 10th location. AIRE also operates spas in Barcelona, London, Copenhagen and New York. 

In a statement, Serra said the experiences in the spa will pay homage to the location’s history. 

“Honouring the building’s literary and industrial past is at the core of our design approach. Vintage books and printing presses echo its publishing history, while its new role celebrates a different kind of art, the art of relaxation,” he said. 

“In Toronto, guests will discover a space where silence, candlelight, and the hypnotic sound of water create an atmosphere unlike anything else in the city. It’s a place to disconnect fully and rediscover balance.”

The spa is set to open later this year. 

Photos from AIRE Ancient Baths