The Four Seasons Toronto Bamboo/Asian fusion massage
‘The Bamboo/Asian fusion massage can get quite intense, but I can control that.’
Those were the first words I heard from my therapist Jeff, before beginning the 1-hour treatment.
Without meaning any disrespect to the previous massages I’ve had before, the Four Seasons Toronto massage may just be the BEST I’ve ever had. And I’ve had a lot of massages!
For me, there are several essential criteria that a good massage has to complete, and this one unsurprisingly ticks them all.
The Four Seasons Toronto massage
The surroundings
Being the Four Seasons, you can only imagine the high standard of décor and design within its grand 4 walls.
Four Seasons Toronto is in one of the plushest parts of town, Yorkville. You can find the hotel at 60 Yorkville Avenue and the intersection of Bay Street. Signage indicating it’s the Four Seasons, at least from the Bay Street side, is minimal.
By this, I mean, you have to walk straight up to the front entrance, or actually inside to confirm you’re in the right place! Once inside, it’s the classic elegant surroundings you’d expect from the luxury hotel chain.
The spa itself is a tranquil haven of subtle granite greys, creams and halo-white tones. In the communal spa lounge area are generously-sized ‘sit-on-me’ sofas. Glossy magazines, and tempting, yet healthy, spa refreshments add to the experience.
The first step
After filling out a health questionnaire in the relaxation area, I met my therapist Jeff.
Warm, friendly and professional from the first greeting, I followed him into my treatment room. Soft dim lighting welcomed me as we sat down for a brief consultation before beginning the treatment.
In truth, I was slightly nervous upon seeing the bamboo stick / rolling pin waiting on the bed. However, the warming scent of the oils quickly removed any apprehension.
Are you visiting Toronto anytime soon? I traveled solo, and had the best time on a local tour. I got to meet some like-minded travelers, and also learnt something extra about the Canadian city.
Attention to detail is bar none
There’s nothing that wasn’t taken care of during the Four Seasons Toronto Bamboo/Asian fusion massage. Jeff went through the standard questions, such as asking about the temperature of the room, to the pressure I wanted for the massage.
The extra details came when I could choose an oil of my choice. I chose the ‘Spring renewal lavender and amber’ oil. It’s not only calming and an antioxidant, but also works well with bamboo.
For a real first in any massage experience, Jeff then asked whether I liked the music that was playing! I’m not sure why I was impressed by this, but I was! I chose the current ‘Spa sleep and dream’ playlist, before Jeff left the room so I could prepare myself.
“For me, there are several essential criteria that a good massage has to complete, and this one unsurprisingly ticks them all.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
Four Season Toronto massage – what to expect
If you’re looking for a massage that focuses on relaxation and aromatherapy, this isn’t the massage for you. I was expecting to be covered in bamboo leaves, followed by a relaxing massage, but this wasn’t the case.
The treatment’s originally from Costa Rica, and was brought to Four Seasons Toronto for a taste of something slightly exotic. It’s designed to pinpoint pressure points and eradicate any aches and knots in the body.
Jeff applies warm oil to the bamboo stick / rolling pin, and presses hard to massage away my aches, pains and stresses. Even without experiencing this type of massage, I could tell he knew exactly which areas to target.
If I’m honest, there were some times when I winced and squirmed from the intensity. However, Jeff always checked I was okay, and softened the pressure whenever requested.
He ends the treatment with a more than welcome mini head massage, sending me further into a peaceful slumber. By the end of the 1 hour, I was so relaxed in the heated bed, it was extremely difficult to get up.
Four Seasons Toronto massage – Once it’s over…
Though I’d have happily liked the treatment to continue for another hour, Jeff took me back to the relaxation room. Here, I lay back into the strangely comfortable curved lounge chairs, and sipped on my tea.
After an intense massage, I’d highly recommend taking some time in the steam room after — it really helps to loosen your muscles and helps to de-stress even further!
The pool and skylit terrace
One of the additional benefits of the Four Seasons Toronto, is their excellent pool and spa facilities available to guests.
As well as a 43x18ft pool, there’s also a separate pool for young children and a decent-sized Jacuzzi style hot tub.
The skylit terrace is perfect for soaking up the Canadian summer sunshine, and with pretty views overlooking the city to match.
Four Seasons Toronto massage – the sweet-smelling treats
Once you’ve completely tried everything this divine spa has to offer, it’s time to shower and head out. Goodies await in the shower area, with the hotel’s own blend of natural shampoos, conditioners and organic body wash.
My absolutely favorite is the Pure Eucalyptus Showerspa Mist. A few spritz of this invigorating mist releases a heavenly scented steam, recreating the feeling of a spa. It’ll come as no surprise that I ended up buying one after at the spa boutique!
Four Seasons Toronto massage – the staff
I have to give Jeff a special mention, and also the spa attendants that made my treatment so memorable.
“Guests truly don’t go without anything at Four Seasons Toronto, and though the price tag is far from cheap, you certainly get much more than you’d expect.”
FOLLOWING THE RIVERA
Guests truly don’t go without anything at Four Seasons Toronto. And though the price tag isn’t cheap, it’s really worth every cent.
If you’re looking for nearby accommodation, why not extend your luxury experience by staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto.
Details
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, 60 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 0A4
Disclaimer: Even though I was invited by Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, all views are my own and based on my own experience. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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Sounds like what I need. I always have back pains from carrying heavy books and sitting at my desk. A little time in the relaxation chair afterward sounds perfect, just sipping some tea. Sounds like a perfect experience!
Oh it was an amazing experience Stephanie! I loved every minute of it, and counting the days till my next one…!
To me, a great massage always involves a little wincing and squirming from the intensity. To me, that means my muscles needed the intervention. The proof is how much better I feel when I leave, and the next day. Sounds like a lovely experience, with the fragrance and music you preferred!
I totally agree Sarah; I slept like a big baby that night because my body was so relaxed. The next day I could definitely feel a difference, but in a good way! Thanks for stopping by!
I love these kind of invigorating and energising massages. Relaxing and just falling asleep on the massage table is OK sometimes, but I love coming out there and just feeling like a new me, ready to take on the world – sounds exactly like that. Would love to try it! First need to get back to Toronto 🙂
I know exactly what you mean Kathi, I always feel like a new person, and want to treat my body equally well after a good massage! Appreciate you taking the time to stop by, many thanks!
I”m what you would call a spa junkie 🙂 I think the most relaxing thing you can ever do ( no matter how much yoga or meditation you might do ) is a good massage. I’m a big FS fan, we’re got one in Mumbai and their spa is incredible so I can just image what a treat this must have been 🙂
I’m completely with you on this Roxanne! Nothing better, and relaxing, than a spa day! And, let’s face it, no-one does it better than Four Seasons! I’ve never been to Mumbai, or India, but will definitely check it out if I head that way! Thank you for taking the time to comment!
Wow the way you’ve described the massage is really nice! I could do with one myself right now.
This one is amazing Medha, seriously the best I’ve ever had 😀
The spa session sounds so great. It’s so important to have a good spa session especially once you come back from a long trip. I loved the way they conduct the whole session. Thanks for sharing the details
I completely agree Parnashree! It’s one spa treatment I’m never going to forget! Thanks for stopping by.
The spa sounds so nice. Infact i am tempted to head there by seeing your photographs!
Thanks Amrita, always happy to inspire other readers with my photos! Many thanks for taking the time to comment.
I’ve had quite a few massages in Southeast Asia and I always find it confronting to have to get topless in front of the masseuse, but I get over my insecurities quickly. At home I have remedial massage for my back, which is a completely different experience. My massage therapist manipulates all my muscles so hard and even bruises me sometimes! Definitely helps to loosen up my muscles though.
I think a sign of a good therapist is when they make you feel totally at ease, which was definitely the case at Four Seasons. Though I had a male therapist, I felt no difference whatsoever than if it had been a woman. Remedial massage sounds really different, I may have to look that up!
That sounds amazing and fancy! I definitely haven’t heard of a bamboo massage before! Was this a sponsored massage? If not, how much was it?
It was amazing, sophisticated and very fancy! I was sponsored by Four Seasons, so I’d definitely head to the website to see what the full price is. Honestly Justine, it was a real once-in-a-lifetime wellness experience!
Well isn’t this a slice of heaven in the big smoke!
Thanks Shaun, not sure whether wellness tourism is really your thing, but a little pampering every now and again is never a bad thing!
I’ve never even heard of this type of massage before. I’d love to give it a try. I need of a good massage 🙂
Thanks Laura, I hope you get to experience as something as great as this one day!
Your description of the pool is making me want to go there right now. Such a feel good post, I’m loving it. I don’t really enjoyed Spa treatments because I cants eem to relax during the massages, but this one sounds like I need to try it. 🙂
Thanks Aditi! That’s so encouraging for me to read. The pool is seriously only one small part of the whole experience – the massage is definitely the highlight, but Four Seasons does everything so well!
I love Four Seasons Toronto 🙂 Been there few times but never slept there 🙂
I was living in Toronto for a few years and had a chance to discover some of the most luxurious hotels in the city. FS is definitely on the top of the list 🙂
Best,
Kasia
Thanks Kasia, it’s a beautiful hotel, and its interior is just as impressive. Glad we’re both on the same page 🙂
When I lived In Bali and wasn’t a budget backpacker for once – I used to treat myself to some four-seasons pampering. This one looks just as amazing 😀
It is amazing Amit, I’m truly a fan of Four Seasons, seriously, it lives up to its name! Thanks for commenting.
I should definitely check out the spa at Four Seasons since I’m from Toronto!
p.s. I’ve nominated you for the Blue Sky Tag Challenge for bloggers! You can find the 11 questions that I have for you here: https://www.ensquaredaired.com/blue-sky-tag-challenge. Can’t wait to read your responses 🙂
Thanks Nancy, please do, you won’t be disappointed 🙂 Thank you! I’ve never come across this, but I’ll definitely check this out.
It sounds like an awesome intense experience! I would definitely want to give it a go, especially in such a luxe spa!
Thanks Chelf, it’s definitely luxury, and such a peaceful way to spend your day! Thanks for stopping by 😀
Wow! If I ever have the budget to spoil myself, I know where to go. 🙂
Thanks Tina! I hope you do go one day, it’s pure luxury…!
This place is just amazing! All this luxury and the all these treatments! How i wish i had a gift like this now. Great presentation and review!
Helene
Thanks Helene for your comments, I appreciate you taking the time to stop by!
This sounds like my idea of heaven! I’ve actually been looking into a trip to Toronto to go an see a British friend who’s living over there and a girl who is from Toronto that I met in Berlin… So this could be perfect! x
Well then, you have absolutely no excuse not to visit! Btw, Four Seasons is a really great girls spa, so the 3 of you could make a day of it 😀
Wow, this is a really nice place to relax.
Thanks Jerome, Four Seasons is marvellous, and the bamboo massage was just heaven!
The spa sounds amazing! I bet it was so nice staying here, this is awesome!
Thanks Halley, it was very nice, and the massage was exactly what I needed that day!
The Four Seasons brand name is definitely a name that lives up to its brand promise. The bamboo Asian fusion massage sounds like a really exotic and rejuvenating experience.
Thanks Sandy, it was sheer bliss, I would love to experience it all over again!
Ah yet I don’t like massages – yes it’s true! weird maybe, but true – I usually get stressed when I get a massage. But then to think to have a massage with bamboo sticks, I would get even more stressed ahah! But I love the pools spa & the tea rooms! 🙂
Lol no way, how can you not like a massage! I kid, each to their own. The pool and jacuzzi area are wonderful, and if you prefer a facial, they do those too 😀
Wow! I’d totally love to get pampered here. Lavender and amber oil? The aroma itself would give the perfect spa effect. Those lounge chairs with the city view looks like the perfect way to wrap it up…
It was heavenly, and definitely the best and most unique massage I’ve had this year.
Wow! What a fun trip! Looks like a paradise.
This is what I need right now. Luxury and a spa to pamper me. You got me with the sweet smelling treats. That is one thing that I really look forward to in a hotel room.
That’s great to read, and this massage was very special!
Great review. It’s good to read reviews of certain places before you go.
This one’s very good, and quite exclusive too!
Omg this looks super relaxing, I feel like this is exactly what I need after exams!
I’ll make sure I have it next time!
Thanks for sharing
You must try it, it’s very relaxing, and luxurious too.
The interiors of this hotel is so stunning. Looks like an authentic Asian atmosphere with the bamboo trees! Loved reading your post
Thank you! It’s an incredible spa, and I loved my time there.
Four Seasons in Toronto looks perfect place for massage and spa treatment. I would love to take Bamboo Asian fusion massage with a combination of Lavender and amber as it sounds unique. I loved the ambiance of sky-lit terrace.
It’s so relaxing! If you like a bit of pampering on your travels, you’ll love this 🙂
Sounds awesome. It almost sounds like a really intense sports massage, but I love those sorts of massages. You leave feeling almost like you’ve done a workout, so relaxed and refreshed.
Trust me, it’s probably the best massage I’ve ever had!
What a lucky girl who got a massage and just an ordinary massage but a bamboo fusion massage at the Toronto four seasons! Although I must say that I prefere a massage which makes me dozing off to sleep rather than makes me bite my fist of pain! But perhaps its the resultat that matters! The bamboo infusion massage might keep away the aches for a long terme!
Oh yes, I felt so good after, especially when I went for a swim in their pool. It’s truly a luxury experience!
Personally, I always have a relaxing massage when I arrived back home after a long travel. And reading your post made me happy, since I love massage always. This Four Seasons Toronto Bamboo/Asian fusion massage is something I should really try soon. Your massage Therapist seemed to be really an expert of his craft, he handles your massage perfectly relaxing and comforting. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.
It’s a fantastic massage, and a once in a lifetime experience!
I need a great massage right now after reading this post. Bamboo Asian fusion massage sounds so relaxing and chill. Natural shampoos, conditioners, and organic body wash are a good combination for a perfect day. An access to a swimming pool is a big bonus from this place as well.
It’s not a bad way to unwind! Try it if you’re ever in Toronto x
This sounds wonderful, Lisa! You made me really crave a massage haha Especially one with such attention to detail! I love that they let you choose the music and the type of oil you want. The four seasons has always been a great choice for me, but I didn’t know they also offered spa treatments. Can’t wait to go one day =D
Let me know how you get on! I know you’ll form an addiction, like me! x
I am a great fan of any type of massage and in all my travels I always include a session or two. Toronto Four Seasons Bamboo Asian Spa sounds like the ultimate place to crash in after an arduous day.
By its name I imagined it to be a form of an Asian massage but I was surprised to learn that Bamboo massage originated from Costa Rica. I have never tried this bamboo roller infused with aromatic oils but as long as it does the trick I am not the one complain! 🙂 🙂
You’ll surely love this massage then! I never knew about it originating from Costa Rica either; the world is smaller than we realise!
I’m not that much into massages especially Thai massage which pretty much scarred me from a few years ago. Nevertheless, seems like a great way to unwind and recover from aches!
That’s a shame! But I understand; a Thai massage can be brutal 🙂
I love Four Seasons hotel and this bamboo Asian fusion massage looks great from your description and pictures. I have never been to Toronto but I know what to get done for sure when I am there. I was pretty surprised to know that Bamboo massage originated from Costa Rica.
It was a surprise to me too! It’s an amazing massage, probably the best I’ve ever had.
I love Four Seasons. They are the best when it comes to location and hospitality. The spa and the fool looks quite inviting. I will be in Canada for a month but definitely, keep this hotel in mind for a staycation. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Excellent! I know you’ll love it here. I did 🙂
Who doesn’t massage? I am craving it already. I want this one right away. I love rewinding and this bamboo stick / rolling pin sounds super fun. Thank you for sharing details about it. I am sure the experience at four seasons would have been one of its kinds.
It’s a great experience, and one I wish everyone could experience!
I love a good massage, especially after a day out exploring. This place looks incredible, it has a great style and the services provided are fantastic, that eucalyptus showerspa mist sounds heaven! I will take note of this place for my future Canadian adventure!
Yay! A convert! I loved this spa experience so much, and that mist is incredible. Of course, it’s all finished now 😀