This place is referred to as “Canada’s Dead Sea” because the natural mineral-rich properties of its water is very similar to that of the “Dead Sea of Israel”.
Whether or not you believe legends or current stories about curative powers of waters like these, that’s not what makes this place special.
Manitou Beach, (Canada’s Dead Sea) is no where near a coastline. It’s a spring fed lake located in the central prairies of Saskatchewan.
It is a True Hidden Treasure.
Manitou Beach, is a place rich with history, but also plagued with adversity. A village that could write a book about the meaning of perseverance.
Mister and I have visited many mineral pools, but never another with extreme natural buoyancy and soothing/moisturizing qualities like the waters of Manitou.
Since we discovered this gem of a place a few years ago, we’ve been to Manitou Beach a handful of times.
We’ve gone with friends, siblings, and have even gathered the kids and grandkids here for a weekend get-away.
Manitou Beach is one of Western Canada’s destination we recommend others to visit.
We love visiting in the winter. Even though, summer businesses are closed, and enjoying the same buoyancy in the cool lake water is not an option.
Our place of choice to stay is, Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa There is more summer rental choices in the village, plus a serviced summer campground on top of the hill.
Manitou Springs Resort and Spa is a, no need to step outside until you have to leave, type of place. The wonderful amenities and friendly staff make it easy to just relax and enjoy your stay.
Inside the resort is a large soaking pool with 38 degree Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit) soothing mineral rich water. Plus, another large mineral pool at 34 degrees Celsius (93.2 Fahrenheit), this one has a deep end. I prefer hanging out in the deeper water where I can fully experience the extreme buoyancy by floating without effort in a standing position. Free, unlimited pool access is included when you book a room or suite.
To satisfy ones hunger the resort has a poolside cafeteria plus a family restaurant. In our experience both have great food and menu choices.
If you want to treat yourself to some pampering their European-style spa offers fantastic Swedish massages, reflexology, body wraps and other therapeutic and esthetic services.
There’s also a fully equipped fitness centre for those who enjoy a workout.
Browse their gift shop which carries a wonderful line of products made with their famous water, souvenirs, clothing, and a good selection of swim suits.
Manitou Beach was a hoping destination for thousands of world wide travellers in the 1920’s and 30’s. Then, the depression and changes in the way people travelled took its toll.
In 1983, fire destroyed the original indoor pool. The new and existing one was opened in 1987. Trouble didn’t end there though for this village. Increased rainfall and snow run-off for a spring fed lake with no out-going streams means rising water levels. This issue has already consumed some beaches and roadways but, is currently being controlled with protective berms.
It’s not only the waters which has history and made Manitou Beach popular in its glory days. There’s also a dancehall which was known for its big name entertainment, and its desirable flooring system. The wood planks of the dance floor rest on braided coils of horse hair giving it movement and therefor comfort for dancing. The dancehall still holds occasional public and private functions.
Do you like relaxing in hot pools?
Have you heard of Manitou Beach, (Canada’s Dead Sea) before?
Have you ever experienced floating in natural buoyant waters?
I’ve been there! We lived in Saskatoon from 1980 to 1992 and visited the pool a few times. The buoyancy really is great; you could even fall asleep while floating. Of course the water isn’t naturally hot but that doesn’t matter while you’re there. I’ve also been to Harrison Hot Springs and even a few undeveloped hot springs in B.C. Definitely special places.
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Glad to hear from someone else who has experienced this unique place. We have been to most of the mineral pools in B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan, they all have different and great qualities, but this one is our favourite.
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I’ve never heard of it! We went to a mineral spring a long time ago but it was nothing like what you describe – it was more like a spring where you could get a drink of the water (for a price) that was supposed to be very healthy…
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There’s another mineral spa in Saskatchewan and numerous ones in British Columbia but in none do you have the buoyancy like you do in this one.
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Looks like a gem.
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It’s a great place to relax.
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Sounds so relaxing!
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It is one of favourite places to go to relax and recharge.
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Wish it was closer but it’s a good trip (not quite a quick getaway though).
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We’re lucky it’s only about 7 1/2 hours from where we live.
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