Four Spots for an Autumn Staycation

October 20, 2025

Summer might be over, but the best travel days aren’t. Fall in Ontario and New York State means fewer crowds, scenic drives, and resorts that feel made for sweater weather. Think fireside cocktails, forest hikes, and lake views tinted gold. If you’re craving one last road trip or just need a change of scenery, these four stays make a strong case for stretching the season a little longer.

Rawley Resort | Port Severn, ON

Just one-and-a-half hours from Toronto, Rawley Resort is a slice of paradise hiding out in Georgian Bay, formerly an old hunting lodge used during the height of pine logging in the region.

Last year, Rawley Resort redesigned their luxurious Lighthouse45 Restaurant — including a complete makeover of its menu, featuring delicious farm-to-table eats with foraged ingredients. To guide the creation of the new menu, Rawley recruited Chef Chris Locke, formerly of Toronto’s first farm-to-table restaurant, Marben. Enjoy live music in the dining room every Thursday to Sunday, or opt to dine al fresco and watch the sun go down.

Guests can choose to stay in spacious suites with king bed options, walkout terraces (these are pet-friendly) or two-level waterside lofts, complete with a private upper balcony.

Looking for a bit of added elegance? Request to have a bottle of chilled champagne and decadent chocolate covered strawberries brought to your room. Rawley Resort is also home to an outstanding spa that offers a number of treatments, but their signature service is the facials. Opt for a gemstone facial or try out a non-surgical facelift with one of the RMD structural remodeling facial treatments, done using electrotherapy technologies.

Rawley Resort is open for booking early May through late November.

Wander the Resort | Bloomfield, ON

Set on the shores of Lake Ontario, Wander the Resort is a sophisticated Canadian cottage experience quite like no other. Located in Prince Edward County, about two hours from Toronto, Wander is home to just 10 dreamy cabins, all decked out in a Nordic aesthetic. From pool and lakeside cabins to a massive A-frame treehouse, their interiors range in size from 500 to 1,400 square feet and feature homey accents, like sheepskin rugs and cool wooden decor.

Thoughtful amenities, like handcrafted bath and shower products, an indoor and an outdoor gas fireplace, organic cotton linens and heated floors make this spot feel like your home away from home for the weekend. And Wander recently introduced its own Nordic-inspired spa, complete with thermal circuits, tranquil treatment rooms, and sweeping views of Lake Ontario — the perfect complement to its cozy modern cabins.

The lakeside restaurant on site, Gather, offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu using locally sourced ingredients, and is open for weekend brunch, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Home to some of the province’s most stunning fall foliage, Prince Edward County is packed with outdoor opportunities, including sustainable farm visits, vineyard tastings, microbreweries and fall fairs.

Chautauqua Harbor Hotel | Celoron, NY

Chautauqua Harbor Hotel is a luxury, four-season waterfront resort on the shores of Lake Chautauqua in the state of New York. Independently owned and operated, the property features generously-sized guestrooms and suites, many of which boast panoramic lake views and balconies, which make for the perfect autumn evening with the addition of a glass of wine.

At the lively Carousel Bar, guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and craft beers, while at the Lake House Tap & Grill, American fare and al fresco dining can be enjoyed on the patio.

Plenty of other amenities, like several indoor and outdoor pools, fire pits and an abundance of nature for outdoor activities make Chautauqua Harbor a fantastic place to visit year-round. Part of Lake Erie wine country, Chautauqua County is the largest grape-cultivating county outside of California, and is home to a number of vineyards and wineries that offer unique tastings and award-winning wines.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel | Clayton, NY

Stationed on the St. Lawrence River, 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel is the only AAA Four Diamond Hotel in the 1000 Islands region. It offers 105 handsomely appointed guest rooms and suites, many with panoramic river views and balconies.

There’s also an indoor heated pool and hot tub and a state-of-the-art fitness centre for guests. As the nights get cooler, The Riverside Patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a pint around one of the outdoor fire pits. Fine dining is also offered at the Seaway Grille and the 1000 Islands Bar.

Stay: The Algonquin Resort

September 23, 2025

A fresh look at an iconic hotel in St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick.

When The Algonquin first opened in 1889 on the shores of New Brunswick’s Passamaquoddy Bay, it was a grand hotel stop on the Canadian Pacific cross-country railway. The town of St. Andrews by-the-Sea, where the hotel sits on a hill, was a place people visited from Quebec and northeast United States to breathe in the restorative sea air and slow down from busy city life.

More than 130 years later, in some ways, not much has changed. An afternoon spent on the resort’s wraparound porch, watching piebald deer wander across manicured lawns, feels as blissfully unhurried today as it did in the 19th century. But in other ways, The Algonquin is entering a new era.

While the hotel’s exterior exudes its historic importance, inside, rooms have been given a modern makeover. With seafoam green and cadet blue decor and wide-panel wooden floors, it’s like stepping into a private maritime cottage; open the window and you’ll have the breeze off the bay drifting in. Grab a complimentary bike or e-scooter from just outside reception and explore town, around the harbour or through the trails in the spruce forest of Pagan Point Nature Preserve. Or schedule a late afternoon game at the hotel’s award-winning golf course, where holes offer incredible views of the water, and catch the sunset while you’re there.

Come evening time, the hotel’s nightly ghost tours lead brave travellers underground through tunnels that connect different parts of the resort. Stories echo off the walls of a former night watchman whose jangling keys can still be heard, lights mysteriously dimming while staff are cleaning and dishes found on the floor of the dining room after tables were set the evening before. And while weather permits, the hotel lights bonfires and sets out blankets on Adirondack chairs, inviting guests to cozy up for a night of stargazing and making s’mores.

Next year, The Algonquin will unveil a two-storey Nordic spa, opening a new chapter in the story of this beloved seaside retreat. The past is rich, but the future looks especially inviting.

What to Do in St. Andrews by-the-Sea

Slip into a flotation suit then take a seat on one of Fundy Tide Runners’ zodiacs for whale watching. The season runs June to October, and while sightings aren’t 100% guaranteed, there’s a high chance you’ll spot a minke whale or two, plus porpoises and harbour seals. For retail therapy, head to Water Street to visit The Nautical Shop for coastal-chic homewares, art and accessories, and Marmalade for Canadian culinary treats, accessories and books.

On the Menu

The Algonquin-Style Classic Gin Martini served at Braxton’s Restaurant and Bar uses gin from First Light, a local small-batch distiller that forages botanicals to capture the essence of the region in its bottles. Paired with the cocktail is a freshly shucked oyster accompanied by dry vermouth mignonette.

It’s in the Details

Accent pieces in the hotel suites tell the stories of the Bay of Fundy’s fishing heritage. The warm glass globe table lamps were inspired by handblown glass fishing floats that help keep nets afloat. The standing lamps, designed by Canadian firm mackaywong, pay homage to the lighthouses that dot the province’s shorelines, with the base inspired by the breaching whale sculpture by artist Ryan Moyes found at Market Wharf.

The Best Places to See North America’s Spectacular Fall Foliage

September 20, 2025

Come mid-September, Canadians everywhere recognize the telltale signs of the autumn season. Cooler nights call for cosy knits, a dockside Caesar gets swapped for a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, and in bustling cities and quiet towns alike, tree leaves begin to change colour, and eventually fall.

An abundance of external influences like warmer or cooler temperatures make “peak” autumn colour viewing times nearly impossible to predict, but generally, shades of deep burgundy, fiery orange, golden yellow and scarlet red spread across North America’s foliage from mid-September to late October, though sometimes, the changing of the leaves can start as early as September, and end as late as November, depending on location.

The thousands of trees that dot the slopes of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains are responsible for the lingering, mysterious, foggy effect, and starting mid-September, brilliant shades of gold on the yellow birch are visible below the haze. Running along the Tennessee and North Carolina border, here, elevation greatly affects the speed of the foliage turnover, with the highest points of elevation changing first. By mid-October, bright red leaves take over the sugar maples, red maples, and scarlet oaks. Part of the Appalachian Mountain chain and spanning more than 187,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountains are one of the United States’ most-visited national parks and one of the oldest mountain ranges. There are approximately 100 species of trees in the park, which attract mass crowds, especially during mid-October when the foliage nears its peak. As one of the most popular U.S. parks, it’s best to plan ahead for fall colours tourism, as many nearby accommodations quickly fill up!

A road trip through Upstate New York in late September to early October presents one of the best opportunities to marvel at the fall leaves. The Adirondack Region spans a whopping 48,438 square kilometres and is famous for having one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the U.S. The Lake Placid area in particular presents plenty of fall foliage observation. Plan a hike to Whiteface Mountain, the fifth highest peak in all of New York, or Mount Haystack, one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes of the Adirondack High Peaks. From way up high, visitors can take in the breathtaking colours of fall foliage that stretches as far as the neighbouring state of Vermont. Scenic drives and even hot air balloon rides over the Lake George Region are just a handful of some of the other ways to take in the breathtaking colours of autumn. During the fall months, the local tourism board, Visit Adirondacks, creates a fall foliage metre that depicts the percentage of colourful leaves present in each of the ten regions of the Adirondacks. A bustling summer tourist destination, the autumn months in the Adirondacks are slightly quieter, but offer just as much opportunity for guests. Visitors can enjoy ciders and local wine tours, harvest festivals and more, while staying at cosy accommodations that range from log cabins to luxury lakefront resorts.

Composed of 7,635 square kilometres made up of rushing rivers, wetlands, lakes and deciduous and coniferous forests brimming with trails, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most famous viewpoints for fall foliage. Starting in September, Algonquin Park officials release their fall colour change reports, which provide a daily track record via live camera stream on the park’s 34 native tree species. Data from last year’s fall colours timeline shows that the sugar and red maple trees began turning red by the second week of September, and that the sugar maple canopy reached its “peak” by Oct. 2. However, rain, wind, cooling temperatures and moisture levels can all affect the timeline, pushing it earlier or later in the season. The park’s camera is a great way to plan a visit, as potential visitors can keep an eye on the trees daily. Ideally, the best time to visit Algonquin Provincial Park is between mid-September and mid-October, as unexpected snowfall or windstorms could spontaneously cause fragile leaves to be knocked off prematurely. Of course, the drive leading into the park is equally spectacular, with popular routes like Highway 60 and Highway 11 boasting endless kilometres of beautiful foliage.

A gorgeous destination year round, the Laurentian Mountains are one of the best places to watch Canada’s leaves change. Their proximity to Montreal (roughly 100 kilometres) make the Laurentians a popular option for daytrippers, or as a quick weekend getaway for visitors from Ontario who may be eager to explore beyond the Kawartha and Muskoka regions. Unlike Algonquin Provincial Park, which has just three lodges to provide accommodation to visitors, there are many different options available for visitors to the Laurentians. Those interested in overnight accommodation can opt for hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, cottages or campsites, which are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Every September, Croisières Alouette resumes its special fall colours sailing on Lac des Sables, where guests can enjoy a full-service bar and music as they take in the spectacular beauty of the Laurentians from the water’s edge.

While summer in the land of the Midnight Sun presents plenty of opportunities for active and adventure tourism, autumn in the north is truly an enchanting time to visit. Not only are the mountains and tundra decked out in autumn colours, but after months of endless daylight, darkness returns to the skies, and the Aurora Borealis once again paints the sky in shades of neon green, inky indigo, and deep plum. Autumn colours come to the Northwest Territories slightly earlier than the rest of Canada, with the tundra turning into brilliant shades of red as early as August. One of the best places to see this transformation take place is in the Barrenlands, a large territory residing in mainland Nunavut that extends into the Northwest Territories. Decorated with ancient sand and rock ridges and carpeted in soft moss and plants, by fall, blooms of yellow and green are replaced by deep burgundy and burnt orange. The fall months also present an excellent opportunity to camp in the Northwest Territories, as the summer crowds have all but left, and visitors have a wide selection of campsites to spend a few days or weeks watching the foliage change. During the autumn months, just as Canada geese begin their southern migration, herds of caribou begin their descent south, often sweeping through the Barrenlands, so visitors to the region can enjoy their share of wildlife watching, too.

Cape Town Cool: Wine and Wellness in South Africa’s Capital

September 9, 2025

Ann Ruppenstein explores South Africa’s second largest city by helicopter, sidecar, Jeep and on foot and discovers why this captivating coastal destination — along with a little bit of wine and wellness — is good for the soul.

As our convoy of Jeep Wranglers — blood red, bright yellow and dark grey — zipped past striking views of the imposing Table Mountain range towards miles of sloped vineyards, tour guide Marzahn Botha shared that Capetonians have found the perfect antidote for those suffering from a bad case of grouchiness.

“How can you look at a penguin and still stay angry?” Botha, a driver with the all-female operated Jeep Tours Cape Town, says smiling from behind the steering wheel.

The first stop on our road trip adventure is Boulders Beach, home to a colony of African penguins that multiplied from two breeding pairs in 1982 to more than 2,000 penguins, garnering a reputation as a must-see on itineraries to South Africa’s second largest city.

While I’m certainly not in a bad mood on arrival, as I witnessed several penguins waddle down the beach with their stubby legs to submerge into the water, I couldn’t help but feel happy. “The beach has these huge granite boulders and that’s where the name Boulders Beach comes from,” she explains.

Topping penguin thrills is not an easy feat, but as we rounded the corner at the nearby Cape Point Vineyards estate a short while later and encounter sommelier Sifiso waiting on the side of the road with bottles of chilled wine ready to hold a private hillside wine tasting overlooking the Atlantic coast, I’m ready and willing to give it a shot. After a glass (or two in the name of research) of the reserve Sauvignon Blanc that’s been aged in French Oak barrels and made to “carry the characteristics of a completely different grape — chardonnay,” we head to the main building of the winery for a Braai luncheon, a local term for a social gathering of friends and family where the meat is prepared over an open fire or an outdoor grill for an experience that lives up to the name.

(PSA: it’s not only handy to have a DD so you can delve into the local wine scene while on tour, it can also be a wise idea since South Africans drive on the left side of the road, which can be a little daunting for North American travellers. Day trips are fully customizable and can include wine tastings at notable estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Constantia or thrilling rides through white sand dunes).

Back in the Jeep, stuffed, with the top down and the wind blowing in my hair, the journey continued along Chapman’s Peak Drive. Admiring the dramatic coastal views, it’s easy to see why this stretch of the road constantly gets named as one of the most scenic drives in the world.

The winding road has 114 curves and rivals the Road to Hana in Maui or the Amalfi Coast in Italy for its beauty. “I think this is one of the most beautiful places in the world,” Botha notes, approaching a section of the road that is cut into the side of a mountain scape on the edge of the water.

The colours of Bo Kaap

Next up, we’ve traded in our Jeeps to explore Bo-Kaap, a historic community known for its vivid and colourful houses, on foot. Along with hands-on culinary lessons, Zayed Harris of Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour provides insights into the significance of the neighbourhood that was long populated by slaves. In front of a lime green and a hot pink house, Harris explained that during the Apartheid era, people of colour were restricted from owning property in the area.

Fast forward to 1980, at the height of the political struggle of South Africa, Bo-Kaap was at the heart of the struggle in Cape Town.

For the first time, residents were able to own the homes their families had lived in for hundreds of years.

“It was a huge thing for us to finally own this piece of property,” Harris said. “So, we grabbed our savings, we bought the house and we found the cheapest paint we could find,” Harris continued.

“Like naughty kids with crayons, we went crazy with colour.”

While the pastel-painted houses still represent an expression of freedom, identity and cultural heritage, he said the colours change frequently, with the only rule being that you can’t paint your house the same colour as your neighbours’ house. “Next time you’re here and you think, now wasn’t that house green before? It probably was, the owner just got sick of it,” he notes, adding that it’s common for owners to slap on a fresh coat of paint every two to five years.

Today, Harris’ family focuses on teaching visitors how to make traditional Cape Malay dishes ranging from spicy curries to stews, roti and samosas. “Cape Malay cuisine is synonymous with Cape Town; you won’t find this anywhere else in the world,” he says. Joining his mom and sister, we try our hand at preparing a lunch feast loaded with culinary traditions. The best part, of course, is getting to taste our creations, which are delicious beyond words.

For another amazing vantage point, the coast of Cape Town is a sight to behold from above. Taking to the skies with NAC Helicopters Cape Town is another uplifting experience. Soaring over Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent most of his prison sentence to seeing the coastal mansions in the affluent Clifton suburb area against the backdrop of the Lion’s Head peak jetting out 669 metres in the air, the flight is nothing short of spectacular. The experience kicks off with a glass of bubbly and a walk down a red carpet to meet your pilot, setting the tone for what’s to come.

But the one experience that garnered the most envy from those back home was hitting the open road with Cape Sidecar Adventures in a sidecar attached to a vintage motorbike.

As we started passing through the city, we attracted attention from countless onlookers who smiled and waved as we zoomed by. Pulling into the 12 Apostles Mountain Range, which actually has 18 peaks, I step out of my sweet ride and stand in awe of the scenery.

Wherever your own adventure in Cape Town takes you, it’ll no doubt have some good views. And if you’re ever in doubt or in a bad mood, head to the penguins.

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine.

Going slow in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

August 25, 2025

There’s no sign for Tree House Bush Bar, only a narrow footpath climbing through dense greenery on a hillside in Bequia. But our guide walks with ease, ducking under branches until the trail opens onto a breezy clearing, where a raised wooden structure with a bright yellow roof sits tucked into the trees.

Inside, our chef grills fresh-caught lobster, which is currently in season, in a rustic open-air kitchen. We sip Hairoun, St. Vincent’s local beer, while taking in the sweeping, bird’s-eye view of the harbour. When the lobster arrives at our table, drenched in garlic butter, it’s every bit worth the wait. It’s a slower, more soulful kind of travel experience — unhurried, immersive and quietly unforgettable. And it captures the spirit of what travellers are finding across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Bequia, a seven-square-mile gem in this 32-island Caribbean nation, blends intriguing seafaring history with laid-back charm. Princess Margaret Beach — named after the royal who famously swam there in the ’50s — is one of the island’s most beloved stretches of sand. Pair a swim with a boat ride to Bar One, a floating cocktail bar bobbing just offshore. Inland, the Grenadine Salt Company offers small-batch sea salt harvested from the surrounding waters — a worthy souvenir.

From there, it’s on to the Tobago Cays, a string of uninhabited islets surrounded by a protected marine park, which is considered to be among of the best snorkelling spots in the Caribbean.

The shallow water is clear and teeming with life: sea turtles graze on seagrass beds while colourful fish dart between coral heads. After snorkelling, head to Petit Rameau island for lunch at Alphonso’s Lobster BBQ. Meals typically include local fish, coconut rice and plantains, served at shaded picnic tables right on the beach. It’s a castaway-style lunch, minus the roughing it.

Next, we arrive in Canouan, an island known for its luxury resorts and sugar-white beaches. It’s home to Soho Beach House Canouan, the only Soho House property open to non-members, which offers stylish suites, beachview dining and the brand’s signature effortless sophistication.

Visitors can also enjoy the soft stretch of sand on Godahl Beach or book a spa treatment at the hilltop Mandarin Oriental. Just five square miles in size, Canouan delivers high-end amenities in a serene, uncrowded setting.

Our last day brings us to St. Vincent, the largest and most naturally dramatic of the islands. While many visitors skip it in favour of the Grenadines, those who linger find a wilder, more unexpected kind of beauty. Rainforest trails lead to rugged waterfalls, black-sand beaches line the coast and panoramic views stretch out from Fort Charlotte’s historic perch.

The island is also evolving: the new Sandals Saint Vincent, opened in March 2024, is drawing more travellers to its shores. The trip ends with a final dinner at Buccan, the resort’s open-fire restaurant, where Vincy-grown ingredients are grilled and served family-style.

Smoke curls into the evening air, the hearth crackles softly and each traditional dish reflects the island’s soothing rhythm. It’s a fitting end to a journey through the islands: where barefoot ease meets thoughtful indulgence, and every moment unfolds at its own pace.

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine.

Rediscover yourself at Santani Wellness in Sri Lanka

August 12, 2025

Nestled in the hills of Kandy and named after the Sanskrit word meaning, “in harmony with”, Santani Wellness is more than a resort; it’s a destination.

With its unique brand of human sustainability and seamless flow between interior and exterior, the Sri Lankan resort invites guests to rebalance, whether it be with a glass of wine or a personalized Ayurvedic tea.

“Peace of mind is luxury because nowadays it’s rare; it’s the rarest thing you can find, and that’s what we’re giving guests at Santani,” says the resort’s founder, Vickum Nawagamuwage. That luxury is intrinsically linked to sustainability, from the architecture of silence and locally sourced foods to the daily excursions led by the naturalist on staff.

After falling asleep to the sound of crickets, guests wake up in their private chalet or pool villa where they can linger on the terrace, looking out at verdant green mountains in the distance.

Serenity is built into every design element, with lines that direct the eye outward towards the floor-to-ceiling windows, merging the exterior nature with interior calm. Luxury and sustainability are woven into every detail, including the handmade and organic soaps.

Whether on a leisure stay or wellness package, guests are invited to unburden themselves from the stresses of modern life. From the restaurant’s no phones policy to the spa’s list of traditional and modern treatments, Santani offers the opportunity to recover from information overload.

Set on a former tea estate and with 116 acres of tropical jungle and rice fields, the resort has an infinity pool, yoga pavilion, spa, and elevated restaurant with premium dining and an excellent wine list. Guests can choose from morning and evening yoga or attend both group classes. There are also sessions in sound healing and meditation, and guests are invited on guided excursions, nature walks, and dips in the nearby river.

No thinking, just feeling

“Wellness is incorporated into the architecture itself. There’s no thinking, there’s just feeling,” says Nawagamuwage. “Anyone can have better amenities, but you can never replicate the feeling you have when you come here.”

Maybe anyone can have better amenities, but it’s unlikely. It’s also unlikely to find better hospitality. From the warm Sri Lankan welcome to the individualized attention, you can truly disconnect. Everything is taken care of.

Guests on a wellness package enjoy personalized Ayurvedic treatments—a holistic approach to medicine— beginning with a visit to one of Santani’s two licensed Ayurvedic doctors. During the consultation, guests discuss their history, goals, and discover their dosha, or Ayurvedic type.

At Santani, the treatment blends ancient wisdom and modern science, focusing on removing metabolic waste to increase longevity and vitality. Along with dietary and lifestyle plans, guests indulge in traditional spa treatments and herbal remedies. Because there’s also an educational component, the benefits last beyond the rich rice fields of Santani. It’s all about creating sustainable change, inside and out.

In a world of constant motion, Santani invites guests to pause, breathe in the sweet scents of tea leaves, and listen to the sound of silence.

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine.

Canada’s top-rated glamping resorts

July 29, 2025

With micro-cations on the rise, these luxe campsites prove you don’t need to go far to get away.

More Canadians are booking short, rejuvenating getaways close to home. According to a 2025 trends report, over 60% of Canadians say they plan to take a domestic trip this year, with many prioritizing two- to four-night escapes over longer vacations.

One big summer winner of this shift? Glamping. These upscale outdoor stays combine the immersive magic of nature with the comforts of a boutique hotel—think plush beds, private hot tubs, and well-designed shelters that take the hassle out of traditional camping. Whether you’re after forest bathing, coastal views or starry-night solitude, these Canadian glamping resorts should be on your radar.

Siwash Lake Star Camp

Lake Thompson–Nicola, British Columbia

Star Camp, perched on a ridge above Siwash Lake, is an ultra‑private dark‑sky sanctuary with only three to four tents available at a time. Each “Star Gazer” tent has a skylight over the bed, wood-burning stove, and either a private outdoor shower cabin or access to shared luxury washrooms. Evenings are for soaking in your cedar hot tub, while stargazing guides host guests by the fire. You may even glimpse the Aurora Borealis from your bed—nature’s five-star entertainment.

Fronterra Farm

Prince Edward County, Ontario

On a sprawling botanical farm in Prince Edward County, Fronterra blends Scandinavian minimalism with rustic elegance. Their luxury canvas tents feature king-size beds, hardwood floors, fire pits, private bathrooms with hot showers, and a summer kitchen with cookware and al fresco seating. Overnight guests can rent a canoe, swim at nearby North Beach Provincial Park (just 900 metres away), and soak up the full farmstead experience. Not staying the night? Day visitors are welcome to book a self-guided wellness ritual infused with botanicals grown onsite, or pick a colourful bouquet straight from the flower fields.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

Vancouver Island, BC

This high-end, fly-in-only retreat sits deep in the UNESCO-protected Clayoquot Sound. Its 25 upscale canvas tents line the shore of a tranquil inlet, each outfitted with heated floors, king beds, and cedar rain showers or soaking tubs. Days here include heli‑hiking, tidal‑zone wildlife tours, and evenings dining on wood‑grilled seafood paired with local vintages. The lodge’s design aesthetic blends handcrafted rustic furnishings with refined comfort for a true luxury wilderness escape.

Elk Island Retreat

Fort Saskatchewan, AB

Just 45 minutes outside Edmonton, Elk Island Retreat is a peaceful, 60-acre woodland escape near Elk Island National Park. Its four geodesic domes are designed for two, each with a queen-size bed, plush linens, a gas fireplace, mini-fridge, and Nespresso setup. Outside, enjoy a private fire pit, picnic area, and access to the retreat’s newest addition: a stunning mirrored sauna imported straight from Estonia, which reflects the surrounding forest and offers a deeply tranquil experience. Add a deluxe charcuterie box and a bottle of wine (or sparkling juice) and you’ve got the perfect slow weekend in nature.

Dômes Charlevoix

Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, QC

Modern design meets alpine views at this forest retreat near Le Massif. Sleek geodesic domes come with floor-to-ceiling windows, queen beds, kitchenettes, and private terraces with hot tubs overlooking the rolling Laurentians. From your perch above the St. Lawrence River, you’re minutes from ski trails, waterfalls, and one of Quebec’s most charming artistic towns: Baie-Saint-Paul. In the warmer months, hike through the surrounding forest trails or take the gondola up Le Massif for sweeping river views.

‘Ome

Burlington, NL

On Newfoundland’s remote northwest coast, ’Ome blends wilderness and coastal charm with its handcrafted shoreline tents (plus a sleek wooden pod). Built from locally milled timber and dressed in home-sewn quilts, each tent is just steps from the sea. Spend your days paddleboarding in the bay, exploring nearby outport villages, or watching icebergs drift by (in season). Every stay at this eco resort supports the rural community.

IV drips, cryotherapy and biomarker testing: Today’s wellness resorts go way beyond the spa

July 23, 2025

If your idea of a dream vacation includes IV drips, cryo chambers and gut microbiome analysis, you’re not alone. According to the latest ILTM Altiant travel survey, more than half of affluent travellers have already taken a wellness-focused trip, and 59 per cent are curious about how tech and AI can help improve their health. Booking.com’s 2025 travel predictions also show that 60 per cent of travellers are prioritizing health and well-being on their next escape.

Clearly, today’s travellers want more than just relaxation; they’re looking for transformative experiences that blend cutting-edge science with holistic well-being. From AI-driven sleep programs to genomic testing, the world’s leading wellness retreats are redefining what it means to rejuvenate.

From alpine cryotherapy to genomic profiling in the Mediterranean, today’s high-end health resorts aren’t just relaxing — they’re revolutionary.

Six Senses (worldwide)

With properties spanning from the vineyards of Portugal to the white-sand beaches of the Maldives, Six Senses is a wellness leader that continues to evolve with the times.

“Healthspan is the new wellness buzzword,” says Anna Bjurstam, Six Senses’ Global Wellness Pioneer. “It’s not just about how long you live, but how well you live.”

One standout initiative is Sleep With Six Senses, a brand-wide program developed with renowned sleep doctor Michael J. Breus. It begins with a pre-arrival assessment of your sleep habits. Once on-site, sleep trackers help trained ambassadors customize your plan, which includes yoga nidra, meditation, a personalized pillow menu, and sleep-supportive nutrition.

“Sleep tourism began trending at the end of 2022 and is only accelerating,” Bjurstam notes. “A holiday offers the space for rest, but also the pace to address deeper sleep issues.” Sleep, she adds, now ranks as the second-highest wellness priority for travellers.

For those looking to go even further, select resorts have biohacking amenities like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, body compression, and vibroacoustic treatments designed to soothe the nervous system.

Euphoria Retreat – Mystras, Greece

Tucked into the pine forests of the Peloponnese, this architecturally stunning sanctuary blends Hellenic philosophy with modern medicine and a side of soul work.

“Our 360-degree Euphoria Methodos programs use cellular therapy and hyper-personalized diagnostics to address imbalances at their source,” says founder Marina Efraimoglou. “We begin with biomarker testing, followed by lifestyle interventions, and prevention strategies. Plus, we offer a two-month aftercare program to help guests maintain their transformation.”

Even before arrival, guests complete metabolic and bloodwork testing at home, enabling the team to design a fully tailored retreat. On site, you’ll be guided toward one of their signature pathways — from Advanced Longevity to Emotional Harmony or Immunity Reset. Treatments span watsu and sound healing to chakra balancing and bioenergetic therapies, and they’re all delivered in a soaring, domed spa that feels more sacred temple than hotel amenity.

For those wary of clinical vibes: “This is, and will always be, a white coat-free zone,” Efraimoglou promises.

Hotel Krallerhof – Leogang, Austria

This modernist alpine retreat, run by the same family for five generations, has become an institution. It unveiled a sprawling new glass-walled spa in 2023, complete with a 50-metre infinity pool that appears to spill into the surrounding mountain meadows.

Inside, it’s all clean lines and curated calm, but the real magic lies in the tech: cryotherapy chambers to reduce inflammation, hyperbaric oxygen therapy for cellular regeneration, and custom movement sessions to boost energy and mobility. The resort’s Longevity Lounge integrates red light therapy, IHHT (intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia treatment), and micronutrient diagnostics.

But it’s the fusion of science and setting that sets Krallerhof apart. “Guests don’t just relax here, they recalibrate,” says owner Michaela Altenberger. “Here, wellness is not a rulebook. It’s an invitation to reconnect, rebalance, and rediscover what truly sustains you. Whether that means cold plunges at dawn, a walk through the forest, or simply doing nothing at all.”

Add in forest bathing trails and a hyper-seasonal, plant-forward menu, and you’ve got longevity programming wrapped in pure Austrian luxury.

SHA Wellness Clinic – Alicante, Spain & Riviera Maya, Mexico

What began on the sun-drenched shores of Alicante has grown into a global destination for next-gen wellness, with outposts in Mexico’s Riviera Maya and, coming in 2026, the UAE. Each multi-level, light-filled SHA property offers regenerative and genetic medical programs with more than 500 therapies, from NAD+ infusions to transcranial electrical stimulation (don’t worry, it’s just a gentle tingle).

“We see high-performing individuals, from entrepreneurs and creatives to athletes and executives, coming to SHA to extend their longevity, reduce stress, and optimize their performance,” says PR and Marketing Director Paulina Feltrin.

The experience is both results-driven and deeply holistic, led by a multidisciplinary team of clinical experts in more than 15 specialties, from brain health to women’s wellness and advanced diagnostics. It’s the kind of place for a full-body reset in between naps by the sleek infinity pools.

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine.

In Prince Edward Island, a waterfront spa redefines sustainable luxury

June 9, 2025

I’m not used to resting for an entire day. It doesn’t come naturally to me, and I often get anxious if I’m not being productive.

A trip to Mysa Nordic Spa in Prince Edward Island, just under an hour’s drive east of Charlottetown, quickly changed that.

My zen switch, which I thought was broken, finally switched on. As I dipped into the heated pool, I felt my troubles melt away. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the sounds of nature at work.

Mysa, which opened in 2022, is a family-owned spa operated by The Murphy Group. Focused on the traditional Nordic practice of thermal cycling, guests are encouraged to split their spa sessions between hot and cold circuits, which include a eucalyptus steam room and sauna, before settling into a relaxation space. Currently, guests can select from a handful of summer packages, including Mysa’s golf, spa and wellness package that includes two rounds of Golf at two of PEI’s 18 courses, a two-night stay at nearby The Great George Hotel, and two Mysa spa passes. Available until June 30, and priced at $749 per guest, it’s a great way to enjoy the wellness offerings of Mysa, while seeing more of PEI.

Following my spa session, I sat down in a bean bag chair to enjoy a novel for the first time in what felt like ages. But I soon set it aside, instead choosing to enjoy the view – the coast of St. Peter’s Bay and its plethora of greenery, the waves crashing into the land, and blue as far as I could see. Then I cheated—I was, after all, told to listen to my body above all else— and made my way to the gazebo, known as the socializing space, where friendly people repeatedly called the spa’s restaurant “the best on the island.”

After pre-selecting a dinner time slot (lunch reservations are not required), I scanned the menu and selected several seasonal offerings, where ingredients are sourced from the property’s greenhouse. Sipping on a glass of Nova Scotia wine, when my food came, I understood what everyone was talking about. The freshness was apparent, the flavour profiles full, and Chef Seth Shaw’s skill was inherently obvious.

The best part of Mysa, Prince Edward Island’s only Nordic spa and one of the Spas of America Top 100 for two consecutive years (and one of just 15 Canadian destinations on the list), is that operator Isaac Murphy made it all sustainable.

What started as a Covid-inspired project continues to attract locals and visitors alike in the three years it’s been open. The 18-acre property uses woodchip gasification to turn scraps of dead trees into fuel that powers the pools, the restaurant, the cottages, and everything in between. Wood chips are sourced using a practice called sustainable thinning, which means even the dead trees are carefully picked, intentionally removed from spaces where they were otherwise getting in the way.

My home base for the night, one of 17 personal cottages on the property, was just what I needed: a quaint, fair-sized space with a fireplace and couch, a queen-sized bed, a small sitting area, a four-piece bathroom and, most importantly, a water-facing balcony. Each cottage is outfitted with sustainably made amenities, and some have fireplaces.

I capped my stay with one of the spa’s newest treatments, an Indian head massage, which can be booked alongside traditional RMT massages and relaxation massages. I sat in the chair, the practitioner’s fingers rubbing the knots from my skull, and had trouble – for the first time in a long time – keeping my eyes open. It was different, I realized, than the Nordic spas I’d visited in the past. It’s about a holistic experience.

The simplicity of the experience drew me in; the air felt cleaner, the view more captivating, the respect for nature and commitment to sustainability apparent. It was luxurious in its simplicity: no complicated scheduling needs, less people around, and more about honing in on what wellness means to us as individuals. The refreshing, calming aroma, the sweet sounds of the relaxing music, and the natural wood tones and peaceful energy that surrounded every inch of my awareness all made my mind quiet.

And I basked in the luxury of it.

This story first appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to subscribe to the digital magazine.

Staycation: Self indulgence awaits at The High Acre in Dundas, Ontario

May 14, 2025

Opened in 2023 inside a restored 1867 Victorian farm house in Dundas Ontario, The High Acre is an exceptional adults-only boutique inn that exudes quiet luxury.

With just four beautifully-appointed suites, The High Acre provides an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy an intimately personal getaway, with minimal disruptions.

The suites, which sleep two people, feature a private infrared sauna, a hammam-inspired steam room, and a free-standing soaker tub, meaning guests can skip the hassle of booking an appointment and enjoy spa-like relaxation at any time of day. The hammam is enhanced with a handcrafted essential oil blend from certified clinical aromatherapist Marianne Toupalik, promoting deep breathing and refreshing the senses using notes of eucalyptus, grapefruit and peppermint. Additionally, guests can practice self-care through yoga, meditation, and breathwork, with guided sessions available in the suite or the on-site studio. Other shared amenities include a heated outdoor hot tub and an outdoor heated pool, open May 1 to October 1.

.

Each of the spacious rooms features a blend of modern furniture, luxurious linens and cozy amenities like plush bedding, soaker tubs, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and individually controlled heating and cooling systems. Ensuite bathrooms are equipped with upscale toiletries, fluffy towels, and bathrobes for added comfort. All of the rooms also feature fireplaces, lounge areas, and a full kitchen, making them perfect for romantic getaways or extended stays.

Guests can enjoy a breakfast spread of freshly baked croissants, farm fresh eggs, jam and butter, and a selection of coffee and tea from the comfort of their rooms, in the inn’s cozy dining area, or on the outdoor patio in the warmer months.

What to do in Dundas

Dundas, roughly 15 minutes from Hamilton, is a small town with a big personality.

It’s close to several hiking trails, including those within the famous Niagara Escarpment and Royal Botanical Gardens. For the best panoramic views, head to Dundas Peak, tucked along the Bruce Trail. Several waterfalls, including Tew’s Falls (the tallest waterfall in Southern Ontario) and Webster’s Falls, are less than a five-minute drive away from The High Acre.

Nearby cultural landmarks include the Art Gallery of Hamilton and Dundurn Castle, whose gardens boast beautiful blooms from May to October.

Downtown Dundas is home to a handful of restaurants, cafes and charming boutiques, making it a pleasant spot to spend an afternoon strolling, dining, and shopping.

Shawn & Ed Brewing Co. is the main brewery in Dundas, and it offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and their signature beer pie pizzas. Wine lovers can explore the abundance of vineyards found in Niagara-on-the-Lake, approximately an hour’s drive from Dundas.

This article first appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of OFFSHORE Travel Magazine. Click here to access the digital version. Click here to subscribe to the newsletter.