Reviews of Grotto Spa At Tigh-Na-Mara (Spa)

Nahid Sarhaddi

My husband and I had a great time here. We booked the romance package for our anniversary and everything was great. The food at the tapas tree restaurant was delicious with a special and different taste for every single course. We will come back again! ???? staff were welcoming and very nice. The massage with Amanda was one the best massages that I got so far...

dark fabric

Bottom line? It's a mostly relaxing experience that makes you feel like a new person afterward. You may say they charge a lot, but they're pampering tired old bodies so what can anyone honestly expect? Being a first timer sort of detracts from the peaceful aspect as the schedule you must stick to, the times you must abide by, and the conventions you must adopt can cause a certain amount of unwanted stress. Not including tax on gift certificates is strange and feels like a hidden cost. Not sure why I have to tip my masseuse either. Aren't they paid enough? When all is said and done, my wallet will remember the experience for longer than I will.

Amanda S

So beautiful and the food was fantastic.

Bill Sims

Super attentive staff, truly feels like a get-away.

Paris Swinton

Decided to treat my mom to a spa day and the Grotto Spa did not disappoint! From start to finish, the spa was everything they are hyped up to be. The amenities were clean, peaceful, and covid friendly. The organic products for sale are amazing and priced similarly to other online retailers (most places would try to up the price, so this was a welcomed surprise). We would like to give a special THANK YOU to Reighlyn for an amazing massage and the best pedicure my mom has had in years! We will be recommending her to everyone, everytime! Ps: the tapas were "to die for" and leave you feeling so stuffed and satisfied!

trevor pullen

My spouse and I had a great experience in the pools. Wasn’t crowded on a weekday and that was an absolute bonus. Staff is super friendly and helpful showing us around being it’s our first time. Will definitely recommend. Thank you Grotto and staff

Joyce Chau

Experience here was very enjoyable. Amenities were really clean and the staff were very friendly and pleasant. We only had about half an hour to enjoy the mineral pool before needing to get ready for the massage though so that felt a bit rushed. Massage was one of the best I’ve ever had. Catherina did an amazing job! The tapas were not bad. I was expecting for the price that it would be better. Many of the dishes were just average tasting, and we couldn’t choose so we felt like it was a waste that we couldn’t finish some of them. I would have prefer it if we were served less dishes that were higher in quality. All in all we enjoyed the experience and would come back for the massage, but not the package with tapas.

Samantha Mok

We got the 60-minute massage + pool package. The mineral spa is visually stunning, but I’d say it’s a one-and-done experience, not itching to go again. Staff were nice and friendly. The overall experience was good, but nothing outstanding.

House of Vieira GMAIL

Unfortunately we had to prebook for doa so missed out but heard others raving about the tapas. We loved our huge jetted tub in out suite!

Tracey McNamara

Staff are amazing. Services were great! Tapas was never ending. Couldn't even finish all of it. Only drawback was an 11$ billing error that they tried to charge when checking out. Everything was paid for when the day was over (not cheap) and to have a petty amount that was equal to a fancy coffee "looked into" after the fact, was not only insulting, but not great customer service. (For that portion) I would go there again and I loved it! Just triple check your receipt...

Richard Lee

Friendly staff, the atmosphere and building/rooms are nice but not super luxurious. The RMT was very awesome and relaxing. The pools were relaxing as well. It'd be nice if they expanded their snacks selections to include nuts and dried fruits and to have them down by the pool too. All in all a nice experience. Would come again.

Bryce Lether

So I didn't give 5 star for a couple reasons. First, the pool is small and not a lot of sitting area. Maybe 8 seats. Second, the water fall is loud and takes away from the relaxing spa atmosphere. Now for the good stuff. The pool is nice and the design is pretty cool. The massages though....amazing....hands down the best massage I have ever had! The beds are great, the treatment was amazing and the staff is super friendly. The Tree Top Tapas was amazing as well. The food was delicious and the waitress was great. My fiance and I definitely enjoyed outselves. Pretty sure we spent about 6 hours at the spa lol. I'd definitely recommend it if you are in the area. Sorry for the lack of photos, phones are frowned upon in the spa which was actually cool.

Micheil Bryson

Beautiful location with amazing staff. The beachfront views are amazing especially near the gazebo. The Grotto Spa offers a luxurious experience. The mineral pool and endless tapas are a great experience.

Tina Jones

We were pleasantly surprised when we had our visit to the Grotto Spa. The resort itself at Tigh-na Mara was dated where we stayed but the spa, is beautifully appointed and serene. The massage therapists Amanda and Brandi were awesome. The server , Rebecca, for our Tapas was so friendly and the service she provided was exceptional.

Olympia Komianos-Bilic

on Christmas eve I was completely nourished by this mineral spa, with delicate conversations in amongst staff and an intimate amount of guests, paired with an exquisite pampering session by Whitney (this gal is extremely knowledgeable in her field of esthetic magic, and her touch is perfection!) highly recommend this spa and ask for Whitney! thank you x merry Christmas & happy new year

Sophie Lussier

Woaw and Woaw!!! From the welcoming to the end... We really enjoyed the mineral pool followed by the 2 hours massage- back and foot treatment. Probably one of the best massage I had so far. After being pampered that way we went to the the TreeTop for the unlimited tapas menu... AMAZING, after trying all tapas we came back for more Lamb, cooked brie, Kale salad and the duck... We will definitely be back.

Naresh Ajwani

Experience of its kind. Ness did an extraordinary job. Treetop cuisines were equally impressive.

Dan M

Enjoyed the grotto pool and couples massage. They do a great job pampering. Tapas not available, but heard it was good.

Meaghan Touchie

Absolutely beautiful spa. My provider (Lindsay) was very kind and wonderful, she even gave me some product samples and information based on my skin type. The mineral pool is very relaxing and clean. All in all incredible experience !

Shyla Tibando

The facility is extremely well tended. The staff are professional. I had an RMT massage by Travis. It was one of the best I've had in a long while. The waters are beautiful and really need to be experienced in person.

Laura Sleath

Thank you Nikki for a truly wonderful spa experience and amazing facial. Your product choices were amazing, loved the recommendations. I am skin care obsessed and I could tell you were passionate about your job. The massage, and your care and attention to my sprained ankle was made the experience more relaxing. Can’t wait to book with you again!

Virginia's Soap-Deli

Holy Schmoley- go soon, it was wonderful. You'll be glad. We did the dip & dine. Call them up book your time for noshing and arrive 90 minutes ahead of time to enjoy the mineral pool (which is bath water warm), hot tub and cold shower. The lockers have all the amenities you need - just bring your bathing suit. They provide robes, sandals and towels. Hairdryer, etc. You will done in the Tree Top for unlimited tapas with your dip & dine package- we ate for 3 hours, the food is exquisite. Drinks alcoholic and not are available at an extra charge. The staff are welcoming and friendly no matter where you are here. Fabulous

Michael Ross

Spent the past two days at the Tigh-na-mara for a workshop. I ended my stay before leaving with a visit to the spa, and I couldn't complement it more. Grace is an amazing message therapist and I will definitely be going again. Thank you to the team at the Tigh-na-mara for making it a memorable relaxing experience!

Livvi Clark

Extremely professional with an abundance of spa options as well as retail. Lovely venue, and super friendly and helpful staff.

beebug 14

Best place ever

Preeti

It was tough getting an appointment at this place for our trip to the island, but thankfully they had a last-minute cancellation and were able to get us in. (In other words, make sure to book in advance!!!!) We were able to get an appointment for the Mineral Pool & a 60-minute Spa Treatment. The mineral pool is sooooo pretty - you're not supposed to take pictures inside but I couldn't resist clicking a few at the end of our appointment before we left. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is because the massage was not all that great and the cheese board we had in the lounge was pretty medicore. Otherwise, the entire experience was phenomenal. When I come back, I definitely want to try the Treetop Tapas & Grill place!

Alexandre Lecuyer

Great service ! Everybody really nice and the massages are amazing 1st time but surely not last ! I strongly recommand for a great relaxation !!

Pierre Campeau

So I booked my girlfriend for a full spacation at the Grotto Spa At Tigh-Na-Mara, on the intake form it asks if she might of treated covid-19 patients. As a nurse Selam said most likely has, so just to be safe and honest she said yes. After using the mineral pool and waiting for about 30 minutes to enter the treatment room , they pulled selam aside saying that me and her can't be treated because she answered honestly. Selam explained that she is immunized and has no covid-19 symptoms and always uses hospital protective measures when she is in contact with potential Covid patients or suspected patients. So if you are a front line worker, don't book there if you are not willing to lie on the form. Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre should advise all guest that if they're front workers in hospital and they won't be treated at the spa

Ella Groenier

Such a nice place! People are friendly, cameras arent allowed inside so it gives you a really comfortable feel. They have some fruits tea/coffee when waiting and after your treatment. The mineral pool is very enjoyable with underwater speakers. Cant wait to go back????????‍♀️

Maryann Charbonneau

We enjoyed the Mid Week special, there were 4 of us girls and it was amazing! Staff were warm and professional, and the Tapa was amazing. Highly recommend!!

Natalie Zavaglia

Really beautiful place. In respect to their rules I did not take pictures of their mineral pool, but the environment is fantastic. Beautiful water features, lovely rock and a nice swimming area. This is a very luxurious Spa with Incredible staff, and their treatments go beyond other establishments. Really fun to shop in their Reception Area once you're done your treatment! I would not do their all-in-one tappa's experience again as I found I was very uncomfortable sitting in a robe eating for an hour or so. That being said, the Tapas are incredibly delicious and if I could get dressed and go eat I would participate in that. The lodgings are amazing in the cabins. Every woman should experience The Grotto at least once. The area you wait in for your treatment is relaxing, peaceful and they offer you complimentary coffee, tea, fruit, and different flavors of infused water. Worth every penny.

Dione Lockyer

Such beautiful grounds and the spa facility is updated and maintained. We were bummed that they didn’t find a way to accommodate the food service during the newest restrictions, considering they did have outside seating available off the spa. Although we didn’t eat, we were thrilled with the protocols they followed and it was such a blessing to be able to do some self-care during these crazy times. We would go back again when we can enjoy more!

Ben J

Very overpriced. Wouldnt return. Massage was very good but the "experience" really was average at best

olympia komianos

on Christmas eve I was completely nourished by this mineral spa, with delicate conversations in amongst staff and an intimate amount of guests, paired with an exquisite pampering session by Whitney (this gal is extremely knowledgeable in her field of esthetic magic, and her touch is perfection! highly recommend this spa and ask for Whitney! thank you x merry Christmas & happy new year

Sheikh Ahmad

Haven't had a better massage, and I a a massage enthusiast..

Ar Aguilar

beautiful place to visit!

Brad

Highly recommend stopping here. A great experience with highly experienced massage therapists.

Mr. Cee

As my wife is a practitioner in these crazy times our customized spa experience was the respite we needed. If you think that the Grotto is pricey then just take a moment and ask yourself this question...Are you not worth it❣❣❣

Gemma K

We got our nails done and the ladies were very nice, knowledgeable, and did a great job. Really relaxing too!

Adele Myette

Had a wonderful massage with Lindsay today. She was so accommodating, catering my experience to suite my needs. The room was a little chilly, so she turned up the heat for me. She also put some hot towels on me, and an extra blanket. I asked her to massage my hands, feet and head, and she was sure to spend time on all requested areas. Her pressure on my tough area (neck) was perfect, and she used relaxing long strokes. I would definitely go back to see her! The spa itself was very clean, and all the staff were very professional. The spa baths were wonderful also, and this was our second visit. The mood of the entire spa is very relaxing, and I look forwarding returning when I can visit the restaurant again. Last time we were there the food was amazing, and we enjoyed the 17 appys, who wouldn't! I would for sure send a family member there for a special day.

cdirksen4

Traveled here for our anniversary. The resort bungalow was fantastic, our stay was great. Friendly helpful staff. Unfortunately the pool heater was down but that was forgivable as things happen. The grotto was another story, the wife was looking forward to our visit very much. Very disappointed when I was denied entry due to covid because I had received one vaccine in Canada and the 2nd dose outside of Canada while traveling for work. Therefore didn't have the "proper" proof. The girl I was speaking with was rude as she sarcastically chuckled and said no as I was explaining the situation. Oh well, slight chance I'll try some other time if I'm in the area.

Sindy Lau

This is the second time that I've been here. Usually starts off with a relaxing mineral pool soak, followed by the massage, then off to the Tree Top Tapas to complete the experience. Everything was amazing the first time around. Second time around, I found the mineral pool not relaxing at all... There were about 15 people in the pool, the jetted waterfalls were loud to begin with, then everyone else in the echoed cave thought they should all have full on conversations louder than that of the waterfall. It's was similar to trying to relax in a public pool. There are no rules about talking so people thought that a club level conversation would be appropriate. It was so loud, I could barely hear the underwater music. So... This is a very relaxing spa as long as no one is in the pool. There may be times of the day where you can get that. I would highly recommend you go at those times. I now have a greater appreciation for the no talking rule at Scandinave (in Whistler).

Michelle Tolic

Words cant describe my feelings. I wish I could stay here forever

Russ Forman

We did the Sip,Soak and Savor package two nights in a row. After the first night I commented to the Host about one of the cheese that was on the platter. The second night she made sure when had an extra chunk of the Guinness infused cheese on our platter.. excellent customer service in my opinion.

Erin McCarthy

Fabulous experience....the grotto was awesome....I was a little worried it would be cheesy but it wasn't. Massages was great, good digging into knots and nice foot massage. We bought a package that included "endless tapas".....17 unique dishes. My husband and I are both self proclaimed foodies...totally impressed! Each dish was well thought out and totally composed! Highly recommended!

Carson Metcalfe

Incredibly relaxing. The soak sip and savour was a great experience. Well worth the visit

Paul G

Kept my expectations low, and was disappointed. The Grotto spa is basically a heated hotel pool…not really a thermal experience that you would find in a real spa. Plastic rocks, plastic plants, no access to nature. The exterior furniture consisted of plastic lawn chairs that hadn’t been cleaned. After the pool, you transition to the change room and then have to put on a robe to climb up to the third floor. We were seated in a windowless and sterile room that felt like an airport. We asked to sit near the windows to take advantage of the views but we’re told we needed to upgrade our package to do so. It is odd that a place surrounded by epic natural beauty made no effort to integrate or the outdoors it into the design. Service was great. Space is horrible -don’t waste your money. We had a basic package, but it was still pricey for what it was. I would recommend the owners travel to some other spas in order to better understand what a real immersive spa experience is.

Tammy Coles

I recieved a gift certificate for my Bday from my husband, but decided to bring him too. We enjoyed the pool, hot tub and 1 hour massages with our practitioners. Everything was clean, well placed with Covid and the attendants were very personable. It was just what was needed for both of us! Only couple things I would have changed is the heat in the hot tub was too cool, and quite honestly the new chairs in the seating area are uncomfortable and lost the ambiance of the whole Grotto experience. They need to bring the handmade tree chairs and love seats back.

Ashley Buist

Ive been going here for over four years. My sister and I have loved their mid week grotto special. Our last two visits to the tapas was horrible. We spent $400 on a light massage and a dip in the grotto and a horrible dinner experience. The years before it was amazing I don’t know what’s been happening recently. I reached out to management and they have completely dismissed me. I wish I could return for all my special events but for $400 I can’t justify Going back. Please update your tapas menu and give me a reason to return. If changes are made I will be back as the staff are friendly and amazing. It was the dinner service that was completely disappointing.

Amie T

Had a phenomenal massage!

L J

Fabulous spa. Mineral pool was lovely and great massages.

Amber

I used to come here at least three times a year with at least one other person. They now only have the packages which are way to expensive $400 and you only get a half hour in the pool. Or you can get $75 with an hour in the pool with no endless tapas which was the best part, now you get a cheese plater. You used to spend $110 get to show up a couple hours early, enjoy the pool, go up for dinner then go back into the pool for $110. Now they're prices are sky high and you can't affordability enjoy the pool and dinner. I'm really really disappointed in these new decisions, covid or not, you had something people who weren't rich could still afford every so often and now nothing is worth the money here! You're now strictly accommodating the rich and forget not everyone can afford $800 for a half day together.

Brianne Stevenson

The spa is WAY over rated and if it's one of the top spas in Canada, that's sad. The tapas were alright and the mineral pool was a nice atmosphere but that was it.

Hark

Great experience. Very serene and relaxing.

Pat Stefiuk

A much needed break, loved that it wasn't crowded and the service is the best, really felt rested and calmer after my time there. Will definitely be going back.

Lyndsay St John

Spa was good staff and auto gråt for doing nothing was silly

Emmanuel Yacowar

Had the mineral pool experience and the pool had just normal water with disinfecting bleach. Did not feel or see any mineral in the pool. The jacuzzi is small.

Sandra T

I did an Escape Spa Treatment for $215. It included: - Dip in the Grotto Mineral Pool - Massage (60min) - Unlimited Tapas So was it worth it? Mineral Pool: 0/5 - in all honestly I would have not bothered to do that. It’s not luxurious for the price you pay. - people talk too much to relax. - you can really smell the chlorine. - not a lot of people can be present in the pool Massage: 5/5 - I asked for harder pressure and she delivered. - very relaxing Tapas: 3/5 - main reason for the low score is, to finish sampling every item. Took 2.5 hours. I stayed for 3 hours in total included re-ordering. Service was slow for less than 10 tables - they give out the food in a random order. Some are very filling so you are forced not to reorder . I was recommend skipping anything heavy and go towards the expensive meat right away. Because of the wait. You could wait up to 20 mins for a reorder. I was falling asleep!! - you can’t take food to go. They don’t have containers. - it’s is a trick that you wait so long and you get full or tired - servers are very aware of the items and what is in them so you don’t need to worry about allergies. They are educated very well on the menu Change rooms: - women’s was clean - shampoo, conditioner, & body wash + slippers, robes and towels are provided - YOU CANNOT BRING YOUR PHONES IN Would I do it again? Only the massage for sure. Everything else was a disappointment. I would have rather spent money on a facial and massage only. I stayed for 6 hours in total. You don’t get an extra discount for staying at the resort. If you don’t ask for house keeping daily, for every day you refuse it. You get $10 credit on your account that cannot pay towards the room’s rate. So you can charge your session or food to your room.

Mchelle Guillemaud

I have just returned from one of many visits to the Grotto Spa, and not my last. I simply love this place. You can be as scheduled as you want or just do one treatment and enjoy relaxing. I always enjoy the mineral pool. The minerals are great and the dip is more than enjoyable. The hot tub is a perfect way to end the pool time. I had an essentials facial today, and it was worth every penny. The room was cozy and warm. The products are beautiful, and I really enjoyed the mini arm, leg and head massage. The service from every staff member was exceptional, and is every time I visit the Grotto. I love being pampered and knowing all the people are there to make my day great, and I’m sure they work hard to do this everyday. Special thanks the the super amazing women at the check in area who went above by going to find my sister and mom when I couldn’t find them! Thanks for the treats! Can’t wait to come back.

Sid Harper

While I have stayed at Tigh-na-Mara several times before, and have always been happy, my last stay was disappointing. We had booked a half-day spa treatment and the tapas dinner package, which was not inexpensive. The spa change room was not adequately clean which particularly surprised me during the pandemic. The tapas dinner, which I have thoroughly enjoyed previously, was rushed and not relaxing at all. I will say that my massage was a wonderful experience. I have reached out to the spa to let them know my concerns.

KTZ

overrated, customer service is horrible! been calling and emailing to get a reservation for few days on different times and always put on hold or call dropped. no response. no call backs.

candy chung

The best spa From receptionist to change room to mineral pool to RM T Everything is very high quality I feel very pampered The mineral pool is beautiful They provide everything you need like robes, towel and even a bag to put your wet swim suit The complimentary lounge that serves tea coffee water and fruits is very thoughtful

Melissa Krull

Alexa was absolutely amazing! I had a salt scrub and relaxing massage. I felt like a puddle afterwards, in a good way. I had a beautiful time despite COVID. Unfortunately, I was only allowed 45 min in the mineral pool at the start of my package. I understand that it is to ensure everyone gets a turn with social distancing and I'm grateful for that. The tapas were very nice. I didn't have room for the seconds that I ordered but they were too yummy not to. The server did a wonderful job of keeping everyone's dietary restrictions in mind and made sure to only bring out food that we could actually eat. It would have been nice to have a couple of pita chips to put the lentils and Shepard's cheese on when it turned out I couldn't eat the meatballs that are normally featured in that dish. Despite the lack of pita/meatballs that was probably one of my favourite dishes. Thank you everyone at the Grotto Spa for making my trip to Parksville such a wonderful time.

Clair Smith

The Spa Bungalow I stayed is luxurious , the king size bed is bigger than other places I've stayed, rooms is so spacious, the bungalow is like cabin style made with big logs .The resort grounds itself is so large, lots of trees .It's good for families & couples & friends to getaway. There's an access to beach as well. It's the Best Resort in Parksville!

Ashley Penner

Will be spending my birthday here as I know my guests and I will have the best time. The mineral pool feels so good accompanied by an rmt massage. ???? It would be so romantic for couples. Highly recommend this place

wojciech domanski

Friendly staff! Good fresh food .But in the night with bad weather not really clear direction for new client's! But keep going guys .we will be back! ????????

Sheila Appleton

The staff were very flat and did not offer information without prompting. This was my first time here and was on my birthday. I was told to tell staffing was my birthday when my goriness and I went for our tapas. The server said I would get a complimentary Prosecco so I ordered this. I then received a Bill for 6.00 for it. Apparently their definition is not the same as the rest of the works for complimentary. As well our server unfortunately spilled soup on our clean plates which were never replaced. The tapas were not for 3 as some came only for 1, eg. the kale salad was one small salad and the crab less cake was only 1 so find it interesting how would have come of there was only 1 person there. The dessert was the same. Not impressed for the cost. Wow never will return even though the facial was lovely

Allyson Miller

The spa and pool are just simply worldclass. Always enjoy my time with them. Perfect for some R&R

Zoe Musch

Beyond me how this spa isn’t sitting at 5 stars. Beautiful, clean, flawless staff. The endless tapas are a unique, delicious experience that I would highly recommend. Mineral pool is relaxing. Change rooms well stocked. Relaxation area on third floor is quiet and peaceful. Services were great. I enjoyed a 7 hour spa day and haven’t a single complaint.

Paul Gonske

My service was spot on. I felt great afterward. I cant say enough about how awesome it was. The massage chair while I had a pedicure was amazing and my practitioner was respectful, kind, and conscientious. 5/5 stars However, their decore, and fake plants all need a SERIOUS update. Im pretty sure the fake plants have never been touched since the day they were installed (they look like they've been in someones basement for 50 years) and the decor is so “unoffencive” its offensive….. yuck. Also the reading material was all from the 90’s. Haha. 2/5 stars There are some really great “bones” to work with there. They just need someone with some vision to update.