MOUNTAIN SPLENDOR AT THALASPA

With the arrival of ThalaSpa at Hotel Mont Gabriel guests can expect a getaway that's pure Old World charm intertwined with European elegance.

ThalaSpa promises "Sea benefits in the mountains" which embodies treatments that are unique and unforgettable.

Arlette Gilet is the inspirational and enthusiastic director of Thalaspa who exudes charm and knowledge to her clients. She figures the time has come for us to enjoy the very best in treatments, starting with the finest of products.

To this end Madame Gilet embraces the Phytobiodermie philosophy. She is a passionate believer that the best results are achieved by co-ordinating care for the face, scalp and body.

Based on Chinese medicine, energy flow contributes to our well being, but without proper lifestyle habits our appearance will suffer. The Phytobiodermie method seeks to correct such problems by utilizing the Yin-Yang and five Element Theory - wood, fire, earth, metal and water.

This is quite a fascinating theory for me because it sounds so mystifying, but in layman's terms here's what it means. If diagnosis reveals your condition relates to 'wood' then a variety of products are used for energy circulation, oily skin, blackheads or hyperpigmentation.

'Fire' products are recommended for red, sensitive skin, blotches, perspiration or couperose. Toxicity, enlarged pores, blemishes or acne indicate 'earth' is the factor that is causing problems. "Metal" requires toner, cream, mask, gel and bath oil t deal with demineralization, surface dehydration, poor lymphatic circulation and dull, lifeless skin.

Lastly, I learn that "water" is a very common diagnosis due to lack of elasticity, deep dehydration and fine lines and wrinkles.

Since this is my first visit to the newly opened ThalaSpa I am decide to try the treatments that are making their debut in Canada. Louise assures me she's an enthusiastic fan and I will surely enjoy my treatments too. I take her word for it and think positively.

I indulge in the Royal Multi-Jet Bath because it looks impressive and very tempting. There are 252 water jets that offer relief to localized parts of your body and twinkling colored lights flash to indicate where the 'action' spots are plus there is music. Essential oils mixed with either Dead Sea salts or seaweed help those jets deliver a combination of chromatherapy, hydromassage, aromatherapy and musicotherapy.

Every two minutes the jets aim at my shoulders, my lower back and down to the bottom of my feet, as I relax to gentle music filtering through the speakers at my ears. This bath is a best seller in my books, not only because it feels good, looks good and leaves you feeling good and looking good, but it is energizing (especially if you are going to be physically active).

This turns into a family affair when my daughter decides she wants to experience the water jets too. I think she likes it because the next day she decides to have another session.

I opt instead to be treated with the Vichy Shower Massage. This is a sensational experience that relieves the entire body of stress. Water from powerful shower heads rain down on me at intervals as they move back and forth. I am laying on the table in the buff enjoying every minute of this full body treatment. The benefits? Blood and lymphatic circulation improves and tissues release toxins, but most of all it can promote better sleep (and this is always a bonus for me).

For fans of European innovation, the Sea Mist Treatment Room is a welcome opportunity awaiting you at ThalaSpa. A celebrated experience at top spas in Europe, the room is extraordinary. Special heavy drapes block every ounce of light from the room and you literally glow in the dark.

As I sit in a comfortable lounge chair, seawater mist swirls almost invisibly around the room with glycolic laminaria, infused with negative ions. I imagine I am sitting by the sea, perhaps somewhere exotic, and pure oxygen and minerals envelop me. My lungs are filled with clean air and I feel totally relaxed, relaxed enough to nod off, only to be gently awakened by Madame Gilet calling my name.

The spa menu contains facials and a la carte treatments that concentrate on problem areas such as back problems or tired or heavy legs (ideal for pregnant women). If you're heading south the "Peau de soie" offers exfoliation with Dead Sea salts and hydromassage bath to ensure you keep your tan longer.

Health packages include four mini-cures. The three-hour sessions feature The Revitalizing, The Anti-Stress, The After Sport and The New Mom.

If I have my way I want to return for The Relaxing Weekend that offers eight treatments over two days. Yes, Louise, I am as much a fan as you are!

Whenever I think of the sea and the mountains, ThalaSpa will always come to mind, along with the inviting Laurentians, Quebec's gift to visitors who adore beauty inside and out.