There’s something irresistible about a girls’ getaway, especially when it’s steeped in luxury and elegance. Enter the Guerlain Spa at Hotel X in Toronto—a serene haven that brings French flair to the city’s picturesque waterfront. Nestled within the hotel’s upscale ambiance, the Guerlain Spa, the first of its kind in Canada, offers a superb retreat that is perfect for a day of pampering with your best friend.

As someone who loves to take walks or go for runs along Toronto’s waterfront, the location of this spa couldn’t be more ideal. The serene surroundings blend beautifully with the spa’s lush environment, creating an experience that feels both luxurious and grounded in nature.

The House of Guerlain, established in 1828, has long been synonymous with excellence, personalized services, and a deep commitment to beauty. My best friend and I were treated to a tailor-made 90-minute facial, a perfect example of the bespoke luxury Guerlain is known for. The spa also offers a range of multi-sensitive experiences and targeted treatments, each designed to revive both body and mind in the most delightful ways.

Though Guerlain began as a perfumery, its skincare legacy is equally illustrious, dating back to the launch of some of the first skincare products in the world. Today, Guerlain’s skincare lines, like Abeille Royale, are celebrated for their use of natural ingredients, such as honey and royal jelly, which were the star products in my facial. Guerlain’s mission since 1828 has been to harness the power of nature to create its most iconic products—an alchemy that results in the ultimate luxury and potency.

Pampering from head to toe

Step into the Guerlain Spa reception and you are enveloped in a sense of calm. The soft lighting, elegant decor and warm welcome set the tone for the ultimate relaxation experience. My treatment began with a consultation, during which the Guerlain esthetician discussed various aspects of wellness, including hydration and stress levels. This allowed her to design the perfect pairing of products and techniques tailored to my specific skin needs. This personalized approach is a hallmark of Guerlain’s commitment to tailored luxury, sustained by a tradition that spans more than 80 years. It combines Guerlain products with innovative rituals inspired by the know-how of the greatest Eastern and Western experts.

As I settled into the warm spa bed, cocooned in a warm cloud, I opted for a facial that promised to cleanse, hydrate, and soothe the delicate skin around my eyes. My facial began with a gentle cleansing, followed by the application of a warm towel that melted away any lingering tension—a sensation I’ve tried to recreate at home without success. Not surprisingly, scent is an integral part of the sensory experience at Guerlain Spa, with four fragrance options available to pick from to suit your mood. I chose a rich, sweet combination of chocolate, caramel, and vanilla—absolutely delicious.

The facial included a luxurious mask, which was left to work its magic while I enjoyed a hand massage. To maximize the hydrating effects of the mask, the esthetician applied cold bubbles on top—certainly a unique sensation that left my skin feeling deeply refreshed and showcased Guerlain’s innovative philosophy.

After the mask was removed, my skin was treated to a series of products from Guerlain’s prestigious Abeille Royale line, renowned for its potent blend of royal jelly and other bee-derived ingredients. A toner, eye serum, face serum, and cream were applied, each layer contributing to the overall effect of plump, hydrated, and revitalized skin. After all these steps and products, my skin was left with a deep glow and an amazing feeling that lingered for days. We were then invited into the beautiful lounge overlooking the waterfront for some tea and after-treatment indulgence.

Luxurious aftercare

The Guerlain Spa experience doesn’t end with the treatment. Aftercare is an integral part of the visit, ensuring that the relaxation and pampering continue. We were treated to tea, a selection of macarons and a glass of bubbly—because what’s a girls’ day without a bit of indulgence… or a lot? It’s these thoughtful details that make a visit to the Guerlain Spa not just a treatment, but a truly luxurious experience, where you can enjoy quality time with your best friend.

In a city as vibrant and bustling as Toronto, the Guerlain Spa at Hotel X stands out as a haven of tranquility and luxury. From the personalized treatments to the exquisite aftercare, every aspect of the experience is designed to cater to your needs and desires. So grab your bestie and live your best “Emily in Paris” fantasies with a girls’ spa day that goes beyond the ordinary.

Images by Guerlain Spa and Andra Balaci.