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There’s something profoundly soothing about the combination of ocean air, soft light, and stillness. This feeling enveloped me at the Oceanstone Resort & Nordic Spa in Nova Scotia, conveniently located just a short drive from Halifax and merely five minutes away from the iconic Peggy’s Cove.
After spending vibrant days exploring Halifax, we were ready for tranquility and eager to indulge in Nordic Spa treatments that we were beginning to adore. The road to Indian Harbour gracefully wove past rugged coastlines and salty breezes until we arrived at this seaside retreat that felt like a deep breath.
During our two restorative nights at Oceanstone Resort & Spa, we found both a home and sanctuary—a harmonious convergence of nature and nurture in the most serene way. Our stay at Oceanstone and nearby Peggy’s Cove was part of our 7-day Nova Scotia road trip, in partnership with Tourism Nova Scotia. Here’s a glimpse of our experience…
The Location: A Coastal Retreat Near Halifax and Peggy’s Cove
One of the greatest advantages of Oceanstone is its location. Just 45 minutes from Halifax, it’s an easily accessible escape yet feels worlds away, where time appears to slow in rhythm with the tides.
Nestled along St. Margaret’s Bay, the resort rests on a serene cove, a rocky beach ideal for morning reflections or a refreshing ocean swim. While it’s not perfect for long strolls, it’s perfect for quiet contemplation, sunbathing on a boulder, or meditating to the symphony of the waves—it’s absolutely divine.
Everywhere you look, the view is captivating, from cottage decks and the spa terrace to the windows of the onsite restaurant. The scenic surroundings alone work wonders to restore your balance.
Our Stay: Comfort with a Coastal Touch
We were accommodated in the Oceanvista Suite, a bright and open-concept studio featuring a small kitchen, sitting area, and a private deck that offered views of the property and the sea. Our mornings commenced with ocean light filtering through the windows as the cool, clean air, infused with salt, breezed in while we savored a cup of coffee on our deck.
While our suite was delightful, I found myself captivated by the waterfront cottages, private hideaways with firepits right by the shore, perfect for cozy evenings beneath the stars. If budget permits, I would recommend choosing a cottage (which accommodates between two to eight guests) for a future stay. There’s something enchanting about being that close to the water, lulled to sleep by the sound of the gentle waves.
The resort is family-friendly and pet-friendly, ensuring everyone in your party—human or furry—can partake in the experience.
The Hydrothermal Spa Experience: Healing by the Sea
The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the Hydrothermal Spa—a serene wellness sanctuary carved into Oceanstone’s natural landscape.
Rooted in the ancient practice of Nordic hydrotherapy, the spa invites guests to cycle through heat, cold, and rest to activate the body’s natural healing processes. The method is straightforward yet profoundly transformative:
- Warm up in a sauna, steam room, or thermal pool to open pores and relax muscles.
- Cool down with a plunge into cold water—a bracing shock invigorating circulation, enhancing immunity, and clearing the mind.
- Rest by the fire or in tranquil areas to allow the body to recuperate and absorb the benefits of the treatments.
Repeating this hot-cold-rest routine two to three times results in a sense of rejuvenation that is both physical and emotional—a complete reset of the body.
Our Hydrothermal Journey
We opted for the 3-hour Hydrothermal Journey. From the moment we stepped inside the spa, the outside world began to fade away.
The outdoor area is breathtaking—intimate, yet open, surrounded by trees and the soothing sound of crashing waves. The mineral-scented air was refreshingly invigorating.
Beginning with the Kneipp River Walk, a shallow rocky stream of cold water, we eased ourselves in to stimulate circulation. This was a gentle introduction before the more intense cold dips.
Next, we explored the barrel saunas—one dry, one infused with steam—both offering views of the treatment pools. I found myself lingering in the hammam-style sauna, enveloped by eucalyptus steam until my heartbeat quickened. The subsequent cold plunge was shockingly intense, reminding me to not push my body too far beyond comfort.
However, as I sank into the Arctic plunge pool, a shift occurred. My breathing deepened, my mind quieted, and a wave of energy and calm washed over me simultaneously. I had been gradually training my body to embrace cold therapy since our visit to Nature Folk Spa in Halifax days prior, and I surprised myself by lingering in the cold for about ten minutes.
We truly enjoyed our final cold plunge in the ocean, which Oceanstone encourages—this sets it apart from other Nordic spas in Nova Scotia. At 14 degrees Celsius, it felt warmer than the 10-degree Arctic plunge pool inside.
To maximize our precious three hours at the spa, we made the ocean plunge after our designated time. Following that, we returned to the spa to drop off our robes and enjoy warm showers.
Afterward, we relaxed by the firepits, enjoying a Lighthouse smoothie made from lemon, ginger, honey, turmeric, and pear, paired with a morning glory muffin and a protein power ball, both delicious and nourishing.
The spa offers more than just the hydrothermal circuit. Inside, guests have access to a fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows for a breathtaking view, and a yoga studio for private or group sessions.
Additionally, the spa features meditation spaces, and as someone who practices daily, I regretted not finding time to enjoy some private stillness. Next time, for sure!
Treatments and Wellness Offerings
While the hydrothermal circuit alone is worth the visit, Oceanstone offers an extensive menu of spa treatments, including:
- Massage therapy
- Body polishes and scrubs
- Facials and skincare
- Acupuncture
- Assisted stretching sessions
Each treatment is designed to complement the hydrothermal journey, deepening your relaxation experience.
Food and drinks from The Lighthouse are available throughout your spa visit, offering fresh options like grazing boards, stews, flatbreads, fresh salads, and cold-pressed juices. For those wishing to indulge, wine and local craft beer are also on offer. In hindsight, I would have preferred dining here rather than at the nearby café.
I appreciated that everything at Oceanstone felt intentionally relaxed. There were no crowds, no background noise—only the tranquil sounds of water, wind, and fire. Even without the ocean view, the ambiance enveloped you in nature’s rhythm.
Things to Know Before You Go
Here are some important things to keep in mind before visiting the Hydrothermal Spa at Oceanstone Resort:
- Book in advance: Spa access is limited to small groups for a serene atmosphere. Each session is capped at three hours.
- Bring your swimsuit and a non-glass water bottle. Robes, towels, sandals, and lockers are provided.
- Phones and cameras are prohibited inside the spa area, ensuring a full digital detox and presence.
- Year-round visits: In summer, you can add a dip in the ocean; in winter, the fireside rest areas and warm pools become even more enchanting under a blanket of snow.
Dining at Oceanstone: Coastal Flavors and Serene Moments
Oceanstone features its own Rhubarb Restaurant, consistently rated among the best in the region. Unfortunately for us, it was closed on the evenings we stayed (Monday and Tuesday). The resort offered in-suite meal service with options including chicken wings, meatballs, curries, pasta, and roast dinners. We ordered a delightful charcuterie board, pork tenderloin, and seasonal vegetables.
To our surprise, the meal arrived uncooked, requiring us to prepare it ourselves. While it was not as relaxing as I had imagined for a restful evening, it turned out to be a delightful surprise. The aromas of bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin and apple cider-Dijon sauce filled the kitchen, and we opened a bottle of Luckett Vineyard red wine (a Nova Scotian favorite we would later visit in Wolfville) while dining on our deck as twilight enveloped the sky.
Mornings began with a simple buffet breakfast that included scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, and toast—nothing elaborate, but hearty enough to kickstart the day. Guests have the option to pre-order BBQ platters or packed lunches for seaside picnics, perfect for those exploring Peggy’s Cove or nearby trails.
And don’t miss the afternoon happy hour at the main lodge. We spent our first afternoon sipping wine on the ocean-view deck, feeling our muscles unwind.
* A small grocery store just a five-minute drive away offers wine and snacks. I was thrilled to discover they stocked Twirls—my favorite chocolate from Australia that remains unknown in the USA! Thank you, Canada!
Exploring Nearby: Peggy’s Cove and Beyond
One of the significant benefits of staying at Oceanstone is its proximity to Peggy’s Cove and Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, which is among Nova Scotia’s most photographed and iconic locations.
We spent an afternoon wandering the rugged granite rocks surrounding the lighthouse and grabbed a quick lunch at Café L’Acadie. Later, we attempted a meal at Tom’s Lobster Shack, but regrettably, they had sold out of lobster rolls for the day—a sign of their popularity! Thankfully, our cozy kitchen back at Oceanstone came to the rescue once again.
If you have extra time, the nearby Polly’s Cove Trail provides breathtaking ocean views and a tranquil hike away from the crowds. We delighted in this short hike with exceptional scenic splendor. Once into the coastal area, there’s no defined path, so you’ll have to navigate carefully, especially near the cliff edges. We turned back when we felt we’d explored enough, as there wasn’t a clear endpoint.
Read more in our guide to explore Peggy’s Cove and Peggy’s Point Lighthouse.
Returning to Stillness
Our time at Oceanstone felt like a beautiful midpoint in our Nova Scotia Nordic Spa road trip—a moment where everything slowed down enough for the week’s experiences to settle in.
There was something profoundly symbolic about transitioning between heat and cold, effort and rest, ocean and land. It served as a reminder that wellness is not found in constant motion, but in the balance between action and presence.
Sitting on our deck after our final hydrothermal session, watching fog gently roll over St. Margaret’s Bay, I felt a rare sense of complete peace—the kind that lingers long after you return home.
Plan Your Visit
Oceanstone Resort & Hydrothermal Spa
📍 8650 Peggy’s Cove Rd, Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia
🌐 oceanstoneresort.com | rhubarbrestaurant.ca
📞 (902) 823-2133
Whether you visit for a day of spa pampering or stay overnight to fully unwind, Oceanstone remains a destination that grounds and restores you, reminding you to embrace the rhythm of your own breath, echoing the ocean’s waves against the shore.
FAQs
- What activities can I enjoy at Oceanstone Resort?
- Guests can enjoy spa treatments, yoga sessions, scenic walks, and delightful dining experiences.
- Is the resort family-friendly?
- Yes, Oceanstone Resort is both family and pet-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience.
- Can I take part in activities outside the resort?
- Absolutely! Nearby attractions include Peggy’s Cove and Polly’s Cove Trail for hiking and scenic views.
- Do I need to book spa services in advance?
- It’s recommended to book ahead as spa access is limited to ensure a tranquil atmosphere.
- Are meals available at the resort?
- Yes, the resort offers an on-site restaurant and in-suite meal service for convenience and comfort.
- What should I bring when visiting Oceanstone Resort?
- Don’t forget your swimsuit and a non-glass water bottle. Robes and towels are provided at the spa.
- Can I visit the hydrothermal spa year-round?
- Yes, the spa is open year-round, with unique offerings in both summer and winter.
