Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta is carving out a name for itself as Canada’s premier destination for wellness travel, blending luxury, nature, and cultural experiences to attract visitors from across the globe.
From serene spa resorts tucked deep in the Rocky Mountains to immersive retreats that highlight Indigenous heritage and traditions, the province offers a rich mix for travelers seeking to relax and recharge. The surge is backed by impressive numbers — in 2024, visitors spent a record $14 billion in Alberta, and multiple large-scale wellness projects are already in the pipeline.
The provincial government is fueling this momentum through Travel Alberta, which markets the province, draws in investors, and provides concierge services for tourism development. This year alone, $72 million has been earmarked to strengthen Travel Alberta’s operations — a move officials say will generate jobs, boost small businesses, and open new economic pathways.
“Now is the perfect moment to explore Alberta,” said Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport. “Our investments in wellness tourism are about more than spas and retreats — they’re about creating lasting prosperity for communities.”
Over the next several years, Alberta will welcome a wave of new wellness facilities. Highlights include Edmonton’s upcoming Scandinave Spa, expected to create 330 temporary construction jobs, 52 permanent positions, and deliver an estimated $121 million in economic benefits within its first decade.
In Canmore, three new projects are set to transform the local tourism scene, including the Alexander Spa Hotel, which will feature high-end accommodations, spa facilities, yoga programs, and guided hikes — generating over 100 permanent jobs. Together, these initiatives move Alberta closer to its ambitious target of $25 billion in annual visitor spending by 2035.
Travel Alberta’s chief commercial officer, Jon Mamela, called the developments a sign of confidence in Alberta’s tourism future:
“Wellness tourism is quickly becoming one of our strongest growth areas. These new projects will help Alberta stand out, draw more visitors year-round, and encourage longer stays.”
Indigenous-led tourism is also playing a crucial role in the sector’s expansion. Just 90 minutes west of Edmonton, The Woods Experience offers visitors the chance to stay in cabins or tipis, relax in a wilderness spa, and connect with Métis traditions. With features such as a wood-fired hot tub, cold plunge pools, and forest-view fire lounges, it’s part of a broader effort to merge cultural heritage with restorative travel.
“Our goal is to give guests space to slow down, unplug, and connect with the natural world,” said Kendra Dudzic, owner of The Woods Experience.
With breathtaking scenery, a growing range of world-class amenities, and a firm government commitment, Alberta is positioning itself as a global leader in wellness tourism — offering visitors not just a holiday, but a chance to restore mind, body, and spirit.
