Part 2: Mist & Magic – A First Look at the New Thermal Sanctuary on Bowen Island
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
When I booked my March retreat at Nectar Yoga, I hadn’t even heard of Mist Thermal Sanctuary. It popped up as an add-on during booking, and at first, I debated whether I really needed the extra splurge. Spoiler: I’m so glad I did it.
I’ve visited a few thermal spas over the years—Sparkling Hill, Scandinave, and Kananaskis Nordic Spa—and while all were beautiful in their own way, Mist felt like something entirely different. More intimate. More peaceful. More me.
I wasn’t totally sure what to expect, but what makes Mist unique is that it’s a completely private thermal spa experience. Each guest (or group) gets their own self-contained sanctuary for 90-120 minutes—with a sauna, plunge pools, shower area, and fire pit all to yourself. And these aren’t just any buildings. They’re stunning, modern cottages tucked into the forest just a short walk from Nectar.
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Arriving at Mist
The moment I turned onto the forest trail leading to Mist, it felt like I was stepping into a dream. The path winds through the trees and crosses a little creek, softly lit with warm lights that guide the way. When I arrived, the host walked me through what to expect, walked me to my cottage, and then left me to settle in.
The changing area inside my unit was gorgeous—clean, cozy, and fully stocked. There was a tea station, Bluetooth speaker, vanity, and even a hair dryer for freshening up after. It was the perfect place to unwind before heading outside.
Change room, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Change room, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
The Thermal Cycle
First up: the outdoor shower. It has two showerheads, luxe soaps, eucalyptus mist, and a whole lot of courage required to do the cold rinse. I’ll admit—I didn’t last the full minute on my first try. But by the second round? Much better.
Circuit Guide, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Outdoor shower, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
From there, I stepped into the sauna—and wow. Floor-to-ceiling windows looked out over the forest and creek, and the wood-fired stove made the space feel incredibly grounding. I added a few drops of essential oil to the water for a little added bliss and settled in.
Private sauna, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Private sauna, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Next came the plunge pools, located just outside the cabin. The cold plunge was… brisk, to say the least. I lasted about 45 seconds. But the warm tub (not quite a hot tub, more of a soaking tub) helped reset and regulate my body after the cold.
Plunge pools, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Cold plunge, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
And then—the rest.
There’s a cozy fire lounge below the sauna with a gas fire and chairs looking out into the forest. I brought my tea and my book, but mostly just stared into the flames, practicing a simple meditation called Trataka, or candle gazing. It’s an ancient yogic technique where you focus your gaze on a flame to still your mind and calm your nervous system.
After the sauna and cold plunge, it felt perfect.
Rest by the fire, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Sustainable Design, Intentional Spaces
Mist really impressed me with how thoughtfully everything was designed. Each building was pre-fabbed with leftover materials from the build repurposed into other elements around the property. They also draw mineral-rich spring water from their own aquifer, which makes the experience not only sustainable but nourishing in a whole-body way.
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
After repeating the cycle again (and staying longer in the cold this time!), I left Mist feeling light, calm, and clear. I headed straight to my evening yoga session back at Nectar feeling totally aligned—mentally, physically, spiritually.
Whether you’re a spa-lover or just need to recharge in a peaceful, private space, Mist is one of those hidden gems you’ll be so glad you said yes to. It was one of the most restorative parts of my retreat, and I’d return in a heartbeat.
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Stay tuned for Part Three of this series, where I wrap up my Bowen Island retreat with a 3-day, 2-night itinerary that includes Mist, Nectar Yoga, a Mount Gardner hike, and a beach fire at sunset—aka, the perfect long weekend for your soul. ✨
