By Anita Draycott

As with many European-style spas, Sparkling Hill (owned by Gernot Langes-Swarovski, patriarch of the famed Austrian crystal family) prioritizes health and wellness above esthetics. Perched on a ridge near the Monashee Mountains and overlooking Lake Okanagan, Sparkling Hill is gorgeous both inside and out. The organic, airy interiors are embellished with 3.5 million Swarovski crystals—from chandeliers in the shape of maple leafs to cleverly illuminated “fireplace” sculptures.

The resort’s KurSpa, the largest in Canada, consists of rose, crystal and salt steam rooms, three saunas and multi-“fauceted” showers. Wellness programs include weight loss, cleansing and detox, and athlete’s recovery programs. All of these are under the supervision of naturopaths, kinesiologists and health professionals. I can vouch for the Cleanse and Detox Program. For seven days, I consumed a diet of spelt bread, detoxifying teas, vegetable broth and almond milk. Yoga, meditation, hikes, swims, mud wraps and spa treatments contributed to a more energized and leaner me by the end of the week. I vowed to eat less food more slowly and flush my body every spring.