RnR Wellness Spa Palliser — Local services in Calgary

WARNING: I received a very painful massage today from this establishment. The massage therapist started out fine and asked if I found the pressure ok. I asked for heavier pressure. However, the rest of the experience was extremely painful. It seems like the therapist decided to go to the other end of the pressure spectrum and decided to bring pain on every single pressure point. It felt like she was using her elbow or thumb to concentrate all her strength on a single focus point, she would do this on a point close to the left or right of my spine on my upper back, she’d concentrate on the point and stay at each point bring pain to me for 30 seconds, and she’d move a few millimeters down parallel to my spine and do it again, each time with a force that was uncomfortable. I thought she was going to do this for a few minutes, so I was being patient for what felt like eternity. But this continued through my 60 minute massage session. The last half hour, I finally spoke up and asked her to spread out her pressure instead of being concentrated in single focus points on my back. I told her I don’t have problems in those areas and that she didn’t need to do concentrated pressure like that. I didn’t have knots there. She then used some half ass motions as if she was spreading oil on my back for the next 5 minutes. I was a bit surprised at her lack of experience and proper techniques. I’ve frequented RnR Wellness Spa many times at the Palliser and Le Germaine location, and all of the massage therapists had better techniques and skills compared to this one today. Then long and behold, she started up again with deep focus points. I asked her to again stop doing that she was hurting me. I said specifically you’re hurting me. I was sure I will get bruises from this experience. I asked the receptionist to never pair me up again with this therapist again. I hope she doesn’t hurt anyone else with this type of technique. The establishment offered me $25 off the bill if I wanted. Seriously? “If I wanted”? A slap in the face. I’m home now and it’s 10 hours after my appointment as I’m writing this review. My upper back is swollen at the points she pushed. They’re painful to the touch, raised, and slightly warm. They’re also painful to lay on, as they’re all on my upper back on the right and left of my spine. She seriously bruised me. I am speechless at the absolute worst message experience I’ve ever had. She injured me and that’s a fact.

I shouldn’t have paid any cents for this pain, in fact I should have asked for injury compensation.

Update (1 week later): Yvette contacted me to ask if I wanted to cancel my appointment with the spa at Le Germaine and to talk about my experience at the Palliser location. Apparently the massage therapist heard I tell her to give me “deeper” massage. I quickly corrected Yvette that I said “heavier” pressure not deeper. It can be corroborated with through the second therapist in the room and my spouse. I said during the massage to quit focusing on single points and that she was hurting me. Anyway, my visit with Le Germaine location today was much better with a much more accommodating massage therapist. The session was comped fully due to my terrible experience at the...

🌟 A Romantic Escape at RNR Wellness: Couples Massage Review at Fairmont Palliser 🌟

My partner and I recently indulged in the Couples Massage experience at RNR Wellness in the Fairmont Palliser, and it was nothing short of magical. From the moment we stepped into the serene, elegantly appointed spa, we were transported into a world of tranquility—a perfect antidote to the hustle of downtown Calgary.

Ambiance & Setting: The Fairmont Palliser’s historic charm blends seamlessly with RNR Wellness’ modern spa aesthetics. Soft lighting, calming aromas, and plush robes set the tone for relaxation. The couples’ suite was a private oasis, complete with soothing music, warm blankets, and side-by-side massage tables that allowed us to unwind together without feeling crowded.

The Experience: Our therapists were exceptional—attentive, professional, and intuitively tailored the pressure to our preferences (my partner opted for a deep tissue, while I chose a Swedish massage). The use of premium oils and lotions, paired with heated beds, melted away every knot of stress. What stood out was how the experience felt uniquely shared; holding hands post-massage while sipping herbal tea in the relaxation lounge added a sweet, romantic touch.

Extra Touches: Post-treatment, we lingered in the spa’s serene lounge, enjoying ginger-infused water and organic teas. The staff’s discreet hospitality made us feel pampered without intrusion. We also loved access to the hotel’s amenities, including the steam room, which extended our relaxation journey.

Why It’s Worth It: While priced as a luxury experience, the value lies in the impeccable service, intimate setting, and the rare chance to reconnect with your partner. Whether for an anniversary, babymoon, or a spontaneous romantic getaway, this couples massage is a standout.

Final Verdict: RNR Wellness at Fairmont Palliser delivers a 10/10 experience—thoughtful, luxurious, and deeply rejuvenating. If you’re in Calgary and craving quality time with your loved one, this is a splurge you won’t regret. We left feeling refreshed, reconnected, and already planning our next visit!

*Highly recommended for couples seeking a peaceful, pampering escape in the heart...

Overall my experience here was quite disappointing.

I had some issues parking and with traffic and ended up being a hair late for my appointment; I understand this is my bad! However I did not need to be faced with snarky comments immediately upon arrival from two different receptionists and my masseuse. The spa was not busy, I booked a last-minute appointment time and had tons of open time slots.

Regardless of the fact I was late (I understand this cuts into my time as I need to check-in, change, etc.) the treatment was still fully wrapped a few minutes early from the original appointment time? My appt. was 3:15pm, I had an hour-long massage and when I got up and checked my phone it was 4:12pm. How does that make sense?

Massage itself was very lackluster, masseuse repeated the same 2 or 3 manipulations all over and that was it. Every move felt rushed and incomplete. The apricot body scrub and aromatherapy was a nice touch.

I was very lucky to have gotten the pool and hot tub to myself after my treatment, loved this. However, I was super disappointed when they told me the steam room and fitness centre were shut down.. this was a big draw for me and should have been communicated in advance of the booking.

The locker room was small and squishy, even with just a few other people. Showers were super run down. My lock actually ended up not opening, so I had to walk back to the reception desk in my robe and slippers after a shower... not ideal.

AND, to top it all off.. I was told self-parking would be validated. I asked the receptionist specifically post-treatment if I could go to a quick dinner after and if it would remain validated... the total at the exit was $28, and the parking ticket only covered $6.50 of it! Wow.

For the price it is, and the fact that this is a Fairmont spa, I was very disappointed and it just missed the mark in more ways than one. Would...