Part 3: The Ultimate 3-Day Bowen Island Escape
Yoga, forest spas, summit views, and sunset fires—your soul-nourishing weekend starts here.
Views from Mount Gardner, Bowen Island
Bowen Island has quietly become one of my favourite escapes from the city—close enough to make it feel doable, and just far enough to feel like a full reset. After two visits, including my most recent solo retreat, I’ve finally found the perfect formula for a rejuvenating weekend: a stay at Nectar Yoga, a thermal cycle at Mist, a rewarding hike up Mount Gardner, and a slow sunset by the bay with tea (or wine) in hand.
This itinerary is designed to help you slow down and reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with that part of you that craves stillness and adventure in equal measure.
Nectar Yoga Retreat, Bowen Island
Getting to Bowen Island
Ferries depart regularly from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver and the ride to Snug Cove takes just 20 minutes. You can either walk on and travel around the island on foot or by transit (perfect for a solo retreat), or bring your car if you’re coming with a group or plan to explore further afield.
Just keep in mind—parking is limited on the island and walking can sometimes be just as efficient.
Views from Mount Gardner, Bowen Island
Day 1: Arrival + Settle In at Nectar Yoga
After you disembark at Snug Cove, grab a snack at one of the local cafés (I love the baked goods from Tell Your Friends Café), and then head to Nectar Yoga—your forest sanctuary for the weekend.
Nestled in the woods about 10 minutes from the ferry, Nectar is the kind of place that feels designed for introspection. I stayed in one of their forest cottages, and it was the perfect mix of minimal and cozy. You’ll find yoga mats, a full tea station, and even curated playlists to set the vibe.
Afternoon suggestion: Wander down to Pebbly Beach for a quiet shoreline walk or explore the forest trail loop that winds through Nectar’s property.
Evening: Attend your first yoga class in Nectar’s stunning geodesic dome and unwind with a warm herbal tea before bed. I recommend a hot shower and early night—you’ll want all the energy for tomorrow’s adventures.
Yoga Dome, Nectar Yoga Retreat, Bowen Island
Day 2: Hike Mount Gardner + Recover at Mist Thermal Sanctuary
Start your morning with a sunrise meditation or breathwork session at Nectar (or just enjoy a slow coffee on your porch).
Mt. Gardner Hike – East Side Trail
This time around, I tried a new approach to Mount Gardner, starting from the east side of the island near Riley’s Cidery instead of the more common Killarney Lake trailhead. I loved this route—quieter, more singletrack, and it skipped the bike-access roads that dominate the west side.
The trail passes the south summit (which I’d skip—no views) and continues on to the north summit, which is where the magic happens. On clear days, you’ll see sweeping views of Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, the Coast Mountains, and even out toward Mt. Baker.
This side of the trail didn’t have any ropes or chain sections like the west side does, making it a bit more approachable even though it’s steep in spots.
Mount Gardner North Summit, Bowen Island
Trail Stats:
Distance: ~10km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: ~685m
Time: 4+ hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Tip: Download the map before you go—there are lots of intersecting trails.
Mount Gardner North Summit, Bowen Island
Post-Hike Reset at Mist
After your hike, head back to Mist Thermal Sanctuary, located just up the forest path from Nectar Yoga.
Mist is unlike any spa I’ve experienced. You get your own private spa unit for a 90-120 minute thermal cycle, complete with a cedar sauna, cold and warm plunge pools, and a cozy fire lounge that looks out over the forest. My favourite part was stepping into the wood-fired sauna with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Everything at Mist—from the essential oils to the handmade tea blends—is curated for deep restoration.
Bring your book or journal and give yourself time to truly rest here. Trust me, your post-hike legs will thank you.
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Mist Thermal Sanctuary, Bowen Island
Day 3: Slow Morning + Sunset Fire at the Bay
On your final morning, enjoy a slower start. Take one last yoga class, savour a long breakfast and explore more of Bowen Island.
Here are a few hidden gems to check out:
• Riley’s Cidery – For a casual cider tasting and great island vibes.
• Artisan Square – A fun little collection of shops, galleries, and cafés.
• Lighthouse at Cape Roger Curtis – For an easy coastal walk and a view of Vancouver across the water.
End your trip the way I did—with a beach fire at sunset. You can legally have fires on certain beaches (Tunstall is a great option—check current restrictions) and it’s the most grounding way to close out a weekend full of connection and calm.
Nectar Yoga Retreat, Bowen Island
What to Pack:
Layers! The island can be warm in the day and cool at night.
Swimsuit for the spa.
Trail runners or hiking boots for Mount Gardner.
Refillable water bottle and daypack for the hike.
Journal, book, or cards for downtime.
Snacks and ferry-friendly meals (not everything is open late).
Quartz Cottage, Nectar Yoga Retreat, Bowen Island
Final Thoughts
Bowen Island has this quiet magic about it—like it’s been waiting for you to slow down and show up fully. Whether you go solo like I did, or bring a friend for a girls’ getaway or couples trip, this 3-day escape is the perfect mix of adventure, rest, and intention.
Nectar, Mist, and Gardner each offered something different, but together they created one of the most restorative weekends I’ve had in years. ✨
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