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We're starting this blog strong by sharing some unfortunate news: we didn't get to host either of our planned retreats this year. When our annual retreat plans fell through, we decided to create our own personal retreat. Gabriola Island's proximity, beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere called to us.
For three days and two nights, we immersed ourselves in the island's serene embrace, finding solace and joy in its many offerings. It was the perfect weekend getaway for us to reconnect to self and to nature; especially during Mother's Day weekend.
Our adventure began with an early morning ferry ride from Nanaimo to Gabriola Island. The gentle sway of the ferry and the expansive views of the ocean set a serene tone for our retreat.
Upon reaching Gabriola after an easy but scenic 20-minute ferry ride, our first stop was Mad Rona's Coffee Bar for a delightful lunch on their outdoor patio. We watched the many bees buzzing about while we enjoyed our food and drinks! The cozy atmosphere, rich aroma of coffee, and delicious food made for a perfect start to our getaway.
After lunch, we made our way to Page's Resort and Marina for check-in. Steph, who already knew the owner, shared a warm conversation with the staff who took some time to show us around the property. Nestled amidst towering trees and offering stunning marina views, Page's Resort felt like an ideal retreat spot. Offering two options, we stayed at the Page's Inn on Silva Bay for our stay, and were pleased by the "spacious, private and feature unparalleled oceanfront views of Silva Bay, the Flat Top Islands and the Coastal Mountains - on the mainland of British Columbia" as so eloquently described on their website. Our suite was cozy, featuring a private deck and a grassy area with comfortable chairs, perfect for unwinding outdoors, which we did a lot of!
Eager to explore, we ventured to Sandwell Provincial Park in the afternoon. The wide, sandy beach beckoned us to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the ocean. After lounging on the warm sand, and dipping in the ocean, we returned to Page's Resort to unwind and have a casual dinner. We savoured delicious meals from the The Fire Truck Grill, conveniently parked right at the bottom of the grassy area at the Inn.
As the evening breeze rustled through the trees, we relaxed on our patio, taking in the tranquil atmosphere. The sunset over the marina painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a serene glow over the calm waters. Though we missed catching a glimpse of the epic northern lights that night, we felt content and ready for the days ahead.
Our second day began with a peaceful yoga session on the marina-facing deck outside our suite. The crisp morning air and serene surroundings set a perfect tone for the day. Following the yoga led by Candice, we visited Elder Cedar Nature Reserve, where towering ancient cedars left us humbled by their majestic presence. It was the perfect loop to enjoy casually for nature connection, for resting and appreciating.
We walked around downtown Gabriola, discovering quaint local shops and enjoying the island's relaxed atmosphere. Then, we visited the Malaspina Galleries, where sandstone formations shaped by the sea into wave-like sculptures fascinated us like a natural art exhibit.
In the afternoon, we ventured to Twin Beaches, a unique spot with two distinct beach areas. We walked along the shore, dipped our feet in the water, and enjoyed the serene surroundings for a while. The sun was shining and the weather was perfect. We stayed here a while! The sand and sea made it hard to leave!
For dinner, we treated ourselves to a delightful meal at Woodfire Restaurant. The cozy setting and delicious cuisine made for a memorable dining experience and great moment for us to catch up; always seems fitting to do this over a good hearty meal and a sweet tasty dessert! After dinner, we returned to Page's Resort, feeling content and relaxed.
Our final morning began with another peaceful yoga session outside our suite, followed by a light breakfast. We packed our belongings and checked out of Page's Resort, pausing to visit the Pier Gallery and admire the local artwork on display. Admittedly, I was shocked at how adorable the gallery was and had to hold myself back from making a few purchases. This is definitely a good spot to stop on Gabriola for unique, local gifts! Overall, our stay at Page's was quite inspiring and we're considering hosting our next retreat here over a 2-night period. Comment on the blog to let us know if you would be willing to join us!
Before leaving Gabriola, we stopped at Ground Up Cafe for a morning coffee. The welcoming atmosphere and excellent brew provided a perfect moment to reflect on our retreat before heading to the ferry terminal and onwards back to Nanaimo.
As we boarded the ferry back to Nanaimo, we carried with us a sense of renewal and tranquility. Our two-night, three-day retreat on Gabriola Island exceeded our expectations, offering a deeply restorative experience amidst its natural beauty. We returned home with uplifted spirits, grateful for the island's peaceful embrace and the cherished memories we had created.
That evening, we celebrated Mother's Day with loved ones by enjoying dinner at Milton Street Public House in Nanaimo, followed by a walk in the Rhododendron Grove at Bowen Park. It was truly the perfect weekend getaway, especially during Mother's Day weekend.
At Rooted Wellness Retreats, we're dedicated to guiding you on your journey towards self-care. Our wellness retreats go beyond providing experiences – we actively share valuable tips to empower and facilitate your personal wellness voyage. Join us, and let's embark on this transformative path together.
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