Guide to Wellness Retreats in BC

In the words of environmental advocate John Muir: “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” It’s the idea behind retreats that combine the rejuvenating effects of the great outdoors with wellness practices such as massage and meditation. Here are a few of our favourites around BC.

 

Echo Valley Ranch and Spa, Clinton

Nestled in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region, Echo Valley Ranch and Spa is situated at the nexus of four distinct geographic zones: the Marble Mountains, Fraser Canyon, Cariboo Plateau, and the Cariboo grasslands. As a result, the ranch features a lot of ways to unwind in the great outdoors, including the half-day “horse harmony” experience, hiking and biking tours, a survival course, yoga, and fly fishing. After all that activity, there are two spas to unwind in: the Baan Thai Spa, and the Western Spa. Baan incorporates traditional Thai medicine into its therapies, and uses Samunphrai herbs, spices and aromatic oils. At Western, find aesthetic services like facials and pedicures alongside stress-releasing treatments like reflexology and massage.

 

Nimmo Bay Resort, Great Bear Rainforest 

Nimmo Bay Resort is as wild as it gets. Nestled in the Great Bear Rainforest, this luxury destination is surrounded by pristine wilderness, and can only be accessed by water or air. The resort has humble beginnings as a backcountry fishing lodge, but is now a indulgent outpost with a fitness room, restaurant, and rejuvenating lounge spaces—both indoors and out. Choose your own adventure: head into the forest for hiking, or take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard out for a spin. Feeling more adventurous? Dive deeper on a scuba diving excursion, or hop aboard a helicopter for fly fishing or to reach farther flung destinations. Then find your zen in the cedar-sided hot tub beside a rushing waterfall or in the airy yoga studio. Or paddle out to the floating sauna for a spot of solitude. Paradise, found.

 

Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, Ainsworth Hot Springs 

Hit the reset button on your health at the renowned week-long program at Mountain Trek. the carefully considered program combines movement, nutrition and relaxation to help their guests reclaim a healthier version of themselves. Each day features a guided hike on a new-to-you trail, sunrise yoga, gourmet nutritionist-designed meals, health talks, and therapeutic massage and spa treatments. It’s no walk in the park—it’s actually a hike in the Kootenay Rockies—but the hard work pays off. There are gorgeous views and indulgent amenities in the huge timber-frame lodge, including a fireside lounge, jacuzzi and plunge pool. However, there are a few things you won’t find here: caffeine, sugar and alcohol. Fair trade, if you ask us. 

 

Halfmoon Haven, Sunshine Coast

Just a hop, skip and jump from Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast is cozy and welcoming Halfmoon Haven. This oceanfront resort is situated on a sheltered bay, and can be explored via world-class trails on foot or by bike, or by canoe or kayak. The area is also a haven for wildlife, as eagles, seals, otters, and, occasionally, even whales and dolphins make appearances. To unwind, pop into the spa for a massage or facial, or take in the view from the hot tub that overlooks the ocean. Those who want to delve deeper into their wellness journey can join group sessions: connected breathwork, a cacao ceremony, or group facial. There are also guided mindfulness meditations, shamanic journeys and grounding reiki sessions. 

 

REO Rafting Resort, Boston Bar 

Fall asleep to the sound of a rushing river, then ride those same rapids the next day at REO Rafting Resort. This is where tranquility and adventure mix, just alongside—or floating on—the coursing Nahatlatch River. This turbulent stretch of water has more rapids to ride in a day trip than any other river in Western Canada. Not to mention guided activities such as cliff jumping, a canyon hike, and archery. To balance all that excitement, the resort offers serene glamping accommodations, with each tent styled by a local designer, and outfitted with comfy beds and private deck. Ease into relaxation with guided outdoor yoga, wellness workshops, a hammock garden, and a hot tub. It’s the perfect sequence: adventure, relax, repeat.  

 

Sonora Resort, Sonora Island 

At Sonora Resort in the Discovery Islands archipelago, the ocean and lush forests are the main event—as are the myriad ways to explore them. Dip your paddle into the water on a guided kayak tour or cast your line and try and hook a salmon. Keen to spot wildlife? Knowledgeable guides can take guests to safely see grizzly bears and marine wildlife. Feeling extra adventurous? Hop aboard a helicopter to stand-up paddleboard on a remote glacial lake (just don’t fall in), or hike peaks and trails way above the treeline. Those with sore muscles after all that adventuring can book a treatment at Island Currents Spa. Try the Water Journey: sweat in a sauna, soak in a warm mineral pool, then refresh with a cold plunge. There is also a yoga studio with guided classes, a fitness centre, and even a Conservatory for lounging. Pure bliss.

 

Sparkling Hill Resort, Vernon

Modeled on the European approach to health and wellness, Sparkling Hill Resort blends luxury and the stunning beauty of the Okanagan in an adults-only setting. To complement the dazzling views of the northern Okanagan Valley are 3.5 million Swarovski crystals that sparkle inside the resort—fitting, as the property was developed by Gernot Langes-Swarovski, of Swarovski crystal fame. But the real jewel of the property is KurSpa. At 40,000 sq. ft., it’s the largest luxury spa in BC, with seven steam rooms and saunas, an infinity pool, and over 100 services and treatments on the spa menu. The spa also offers fitness activities, such as yoga, stretching, and aqua aerobics. Outside the resort, there are guided hikes available on nearby trails, a lake perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, and mountain bike trails suited for both beginners and experts.

 

Hollyhock, Cortes Island

Hollyhock is located in the sparsely populated Discovery Islands archipelago, and boasts a long, storied history that somehow includes the founder of Greenpeace and a fortune teller. Today, the campus is devoted to health and wellness, and offers a packed calendar of retreats with something to suit every wellness journey. They also offer various “healing arts,” such as massage, reflexology and acupressure, alongside tarot and astrology sessions. The garden is the perfect spot for meditation, and those looking for gardening tips and tricks shouldn’t miss the weekly tour. Most days, they host movement classes, such as tai chi and yoga. And nature walks accompanied by a knowledgeable guide are always on offer. All in a campus that is equal parts rustic and charming—a balm for mind, body and soul.

 

Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa, Courtenay

Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa has a little of everything: ocean views, pristine forests, even rushing waterfalls. There are also plenty of walking and hiking trails, both near (with shipwrecks) and far (with fascinating rock foundations). For adventure with a capital A, try a grizzly bear tour or whale watching excursion. Or embark on a bike tour, round of golf, and even skiing at nearby Mount Washington—depending on the season. After all that adventure, pop into Pacific Mist Spa, where you can find both traditional and unconventional spa treatments. Don’t skip the immersive 60-minute hydropath, which features a series of six soothing water treatments, like the waterfall massage and steam cave. To round out the experience, relax in the Serenity Gardens next to cozy fire bowls. There’s no better nightcap.