The Shangri-La Hotel Toronto is an iconic destination in the heart of downtown. For years, I’ve been visiting the hotel for drinks in their lobby following the ballet or opera across the road at the Four Seasons Centre, or stopping into Momofuku Noodle Bar for a delicious meal. I was absolutely thrilled to be able to experience their resident day spa, Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie for a facial. It was the perfect afternoon starting with an indulgent facial and ending with a darling afternoon high tea. Keep reading for my full Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie Review and why you need to experience the Shangri-La Toronto for high tea in the city.
Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie Review
I’ve seen gorgeous photos of the Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie all over my Instagram feed, with its moorish architecture and luxurious pool. I was invited to experience a Vinoperfect facial for radiance and anti-dark spots. You can read about all the different types of facials Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie offers here. I was a bit nervous about the treatment, as I have never received a full facial beyond a quick demonstration or peel at a beauty event.
After changing in the spa’s spacious change rooms, I was led to a sumptuous waiting room that offered tea, fresh fruit and pastries while you wait. The decor was so beautiful, and included a cozy fireplace, Moroccan lanterns, ottomans and cozy benches. It was also dimly lit and evoked a very calm, old-world vibe. I was by myself at this point, so I took in my surroundings before being led into a room for the treatment.
The Vinoperfect Treatment involves a sculpting massage with hot and cold stones, which is known to boost lymphatic drainage. There were many steps included in this facial including exfoliation, a peel, a mask and even some extractions! I felt like I received the works, and the hot and cold stone massage was absolutely divine! I really liked how the aesthetician listened to my concerns about my skin, and suggested suitable products and altered the treatment slightly for my sensitive skin. After one hour, I felt completely relaxed and rejuvenated.
Following the facial, I had a chance to revisit that beautiful waiting lounge (they kindly let my sister join me), and was offered a fresh mint tea along with a gluten free plate of dessert and fruit. Overall, I really liked how the facial felt like a special event, and not just part of your typical beauty regimen. If you’re visiting Toronto and coming from a long flight, this facial would do wonders for your skin!
I was a bit nervous about blemishes and sensitivity following the facial treatment, however, I was pleasantly surprised that my skin did not react negatively at all! Caudalie products contain all natural ingredients (they are on the Green Beauty list at Sephora), and most of the products the aesthetician used on my skin contained their signature ingredient, sourced from grape seeds. The spa offers customers the ability to purchase all the Caudalie products used during the treatment, and I left with a card containing product suggestions from the aesthetician.
For my first facial, the Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie was a very indulgent, informative experience. I left with glowing skin and enjoyed the entire visit! I would definitely love to come back in the winter for another facial and a massage for an afternoon of complete bliss. Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie was recently included as one of the top 20 spas in North America by Spas of America, and with body treatments, a turkish bath and mani-pedis available, there are options for any type of guest. If you have any questions beyond my Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie review, leave a comment below or check out the spa’s website.
Gluten-Free Afternoon High Tea at Shangri-La Hotel Toronto
Following my facial, my sister and I headed into the lobby to experience the hotel’s Botanical Afternoon High Tea service. At the time, the hotel was partnered with Levenswater Gin, a Canadian distillery, to create a botanical-inspired cocktail and high tea menu.
Right off the bat, we ordered our teas and two of the Levenswater Harmony cocktails. The Shangri-La Toronto’s tea menu was extensive, and had options for any taste including green, black, herbal and oolong options. My sister opted for a green, while I opted for a rich oolong.
Being gluten-intolerant, I have never had a chance to experience high tea at a luxury hotel, because I always feared my diet would hold me back. I was absolutely thrilled with the service and options for gluten-free guests. I was able to experience mini cakes, tarts, and even SCONES (!) for a full, high tea experience. The picture above depicts the gluten-free offerings for high tea, and it’s safe to say I was thrilled to have scones with cream and jam.
One of my favourite parts about visiting the Shangri-La Hotel Toronto for high tea is that there is live music in the lobby bar. A pianist was playing all sorts of contemporary and jazz songs, and my sister nearly screamed in delight when he performed a set of Disney songs.
Overall, I would highly recommend visiting the Shangri-La Hotel Toronto for high tea, especially if you are gluten intolerant like me. The service was impeccable, and I didn’t feel rushed. The atmosphere can’t be beat, and I love the light-filled room overlooking University Avenue and the Four Seasons across the road. It’s a lovely place to take someone special for an afternoon enjoying cocktails, desserts, and music.
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