A FINE LAYER OF SALT GLAZES MY LIPS and I close my eyes, listening to a rush of hot mineral-rich water as it streams into the space beside me. I’m mostly submerged in a large thermal pool, positioned to take advantage of the underwater jets doing an exceptional job melting the knotted muscles behind my shoulders. Spanning the entire length of the wide stone wall at the far end of the pool facing me, a beautiful inset gas fireplace feeds warmth into the space, while firelight flickers against the glass and across the water’s surface.
Aligned at the room’s end across from one another, tall, leafless birch trees reach toward the ceiling, adding to the illusion of taking a dip in a deep alpine forest lake. Elements of Nordic nature and culture all come into play in the LivNordic Spa & Wellness space on board the elegant Viking Star, one of Viking’s extraordinary ocean-going vessels.
The fabulous spa space makes up the entire forward area of Deck One and proves one of the most wonderful at-sea experiences I’ve ever enjoyed. Along with the hot and cold areas, the spa’s multihead showers can target everywhere all at once, or just that one muscle crying out for attention. Separate men’s and women’s dressing areas each provide showers, lockers, large sauna cabins and cold plunge pools. While each also offers its own relaxation area, it’s the tranquil, firelit space near the pools that beckons.
From the corner of my eye, I have a partial view of a grotto filled with snow and ice, emanating a soft blue glow through the glass on one side. It’s across from the large steam chamber and separated by a wide area where heated stone beds, curved for optimal comfort, offer an inviting space to relax.
Thanks to plenty of time exploring Iceland and Scandinavia, I’m familiar with the Nordic bathing ritual of alternating hot and cold experiences to stimulate the immune system and relax the body. A host of medical studies support this practice, detailing how the use of water in its various forms — ice, steam and liquid — can offer relief from a host of conditions that include arthritis and joint and muscle pain, while enhancing cardiovascular health and an improved sense of overall well-being.
It’s that well-being sensation I’m seeking. In the midst of processing all of that hot vs. cold information intellectually, I’m still mentally cringing at leaving the comfort of the hot mineral pool, carefully observing as others move in and out of the snow-filled grotto. But since nothing ventured equals nothing gained in the world of travel, I reluctantly pull myself from the hot water and enter the icy cave.
Immediately I’m surrounded by the cave’s ethereal blue light. My toes dig in to the soft snow, and after an initial gasp, I clear a spot on one of the stone benches positioned within, noticing how snowflakes fill the crevices and tiny shelves within the lava rock walls. Four minutes, counted out on the spa’s wall clock, pass swiftly, and I leave feeling a rush of peacefulness wash over me.

Snow grotto © VIKING OCEAN CRUISES
The cold session only makes the next destination on my thermal route — the scented steam chamber — all the more delicious. I choose a seat against the wall and press my shoulders into the stone, physically absorbing the warmth.
The result is heavenly. For the next hour, I make a path through the suite, choosing the hot pool, whirlpool or steam bath alternating with the cold option of the snow cave or a session beneath a bucket filled with icy water. A firm pull on the bucket’s chain releases a frigid cascade over my head and body and acts as permission to immediately head someplace warmer. Between hot and cold sessions, there’s time to relax on one of the poolside loungers beneath a thick towel or to stretch out on one of the heated stone beds with a pillow beneath my head.
The next day, I arrive at the spa in time for a sauna session before my Swedish massage. I’d hesitated over my treatment choice, finally deciding I should play out the Nordic theme as fully as possible. My therapist questions me about any especially tight areas and proceeds to deliver a deep-tissue version of the traditional Swedish therapy, using her hands and lower arms to roll and knead my muscles in a rhythmic motion that mimics the movement of the ship.
When her fingertips find the muscles beneath my shoulder blades, she adds a swift, tapping vibration that enhances my relaxation. At the end of my session, she gives me instructions to make use of the thermal suite as much as possible during the cruise, suggesting that moving between the steam bath and snow cave would be particularly helpful.
Post-massage, it’s time for afternoon tea service in the Wintergarden. By the time I arrive, a string quartet is already playing. Music floats toward the glass ceiling, supported by a lacy network of golden Scandinavian wood, creating a tranquil space and reminding me of a vast nest suspended between the sea and sky. A smiling waiter notes my tea selection and returns soon with a teapot and a tiered stand of savory sandwiches, lovely cakes and an array of still-warm scones — for me, the ideal way to wrap up a relaxing day at sea.
Read This Next
Bold and Beautiful
January 2019
Jan 9, 2020
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Jun 20, 2025Hong Kong International Airport Reveals Redesign of The Bridge Lounge
The Bridge — Cathay Pacific’s stylish, oasis-like lounge at Hong Kong International Airport — is once again available to travelers. The Bridge is located close to Departure Gate 35 in Terminal 1. Along with a traditional, staffed check-in desk, guests will soon be able to choose the option of a biometric check-in system. Inside, architectural and design features include cherry wood, black granite, travertine and framed screens, along with original artwors from Cathay Pacific’s own award-winning Gallery in the Skies.
Sponsored Content
Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive
Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.
Daily
Jun 20, 2025World’s First Runway Sauna Opens at Helsinki Airport for Unique Campaign
The world’s first runway sauna opened for just one day this month at Helsinki Airport in Finland. In a country with more than 3 million saunas, this runway sauna may just be another in the country, but it served as a symbol of Finnish happiness and wellbeing.
June 2025
Jun 20, 2025The Majors Make Summer Tops for Tennis Fans
The world’s four most important annual professional tennis tournaments, collectively known as the Grand Slam, take place during the warmer months, so why not tack a Major onto your vacation?
Sponsored Content
Smarter Business Travel: 12 Tips from IHG Business Edge
For small- and mid-sized businesses, travel is often a necessary part of growth — helping to strengthen client relationships, explore new markets and attend key industry events. But with rising costs and limited resources, keeping business travel efficient and budget-friendly is more important than ever.
Daily
Jun 20, 20253 Hotels with Luxury Fly-Fishing Experiences
Peak fly-fishing season is underway, making it the perfect time to book a getaway to one of these three luxury resorts with fly-fishing experiences.
The Spa at Terranea Debuts $4.5 Million Renovation
Daily
Jun 19, 2025Don’t Miss These 5 Exceptional Museums in Budapest
Daily
Jun 18, 2025W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal Review
eFlyer Reviews
Jun 18, 2025eFlyer News
Jun 18, 2025United Airlines Launches First Non-Stop Service Between United States and Greenland in 20 Years
The first non-stop service between the United States and Greenland in 20 years is officially underway thanks to United Airlines. The airline launched the new route June 15, connecting Newark Liberty International Airport with Nuuk International Airport.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
eFlyer News
Jun 18, 2025Radisson Collection Debuts in France in Lyon
Cour des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel, marks Radisson Collection’s debut in France. Part of Radisson Hotel Group, the luxury lifestyle brand opens in Lyon’s historic center in the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon district. The site alone dates back to the 14th century, connecting six interior courtyards across several buildings.
ShareThis