Thermal Waters: Scandinave Spa to Open First Alberta Location in Edmonton

The Scandinave Group has confirmed Edmonton as the site for its first spa in Alberta and fifth in Canada, with a scheduled opening in summer 2028.

Credit: Scandinave Spa

Per the news release, the project is expected to create a total economic impact of $121 million over its first decade, with 330 temporary construction jobs and 52 permanent full-time positions once operational. More than $18 million in tax revenue is anticipated at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.

The new facility will be located in the Brander Gardens neighbourhood, overlooking the North Saskatchewan River.

Scandinave Spa specializes in traditional Scandinavian thermal therapy experiences that follow a sequence of hot, cold, and rest phases. Current operating locations include Blue Mountain, Mont-Tremblant, Vieux-Montréal, and Whistler.

The facility aims to integrate with the surrounding natural environment. Sustainable construction and operations are identified as key priorities for the development.

Support for the project has come from multiple organizations, including Travel Alberta through its Investor Concierge program, which offered strategic data and a financial incentive. Additional support was provided by the Government of Alberta’s Investment and Growth Fund (IGF), the City of Edmonton, Edmonton Global, and Explore Edmonton.

The IGF is a provincial initiative aimed at overcoming barriers to final investment decisions in Alberta. Since 2021, the fund has backed 14 projects, supporting over 1,300 permanent and approximately 1,400 temporary jobs with more than $855 million in capital investment.

Travel Alberta says Edmonton was chosen for the project due to its combination of urban amenities and natural landscapes, factors seen as valuable for expanding the region’s tourism sector.