
BOWEN ISLAND
British Columbia, Canada
October 24-26 | 2025
Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Vancouver, Nectar is nestled in the heart of a lush temperate rainforest on Nexwlélexwm (Bowen Island), the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation. This sanctuary continues to be one of our annual retreat destinations for good reason—it feels like an instant homecoming. Step away from the busyness of life, and embrace practices that nurture your well-being and uplift your spirit.
Our Soul-Driven Mission
Evolve Retreats was founded with the intention of helping you bring more fulfillment and clarity into your life. It’s so easy to get caught up in daily routines and lose sight of what truly matters. Our retreats are designed to help you reconnect with what lights you up and rediscover your purpose. We bring together a community of like-minded individuals to create meaningful connections, all while supporting your personal growth and self-reflection. We handle everything—from nourishing meals to beautiful venues and a balanced schedule that combines inner work with ample downtime. Through practices like yoga, meditation, journaling, workshops, and adventures, we offer a safe and nurturing space to explore who you are and who you have yet to become.
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Retreat into nature and press pause at Nectar Retreat Centre. Nestled on 20 acres of lush, forested land, Nectar offers a sanctuary that feels like home—a literal breath of fresh air and an escape from the city’s buzz. Featured in The New York Times, Nectar’s Scandinavian-inspired cabins and cottages seamlessly blend modern comforts with natural beauty. Picture crisp autumn air, vibrant fall leaves blanketing the forest floor, deer meandering through the property, a freshwater stream winding its way through the trees, and top-notch amenities designed to make you feel completely cared for.
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The catering team at Nectar never fails to amaze us! Every meal is a thoughtfully crafted vegetarian masterpiece, made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and tailored to accommodate all dietary preferences and allergies.
Your retreat experience includes a welcome snack upon arrival, a nourishing welcome dinner, three delicious meals on the second day, and a wholesome breakfast on our closing morning. Snacks, infused water, coffee, and tea are always available to keep you feeling nourished and cared for.
There’s something so special about letting go of meal planning and instead being delighted by the nourishing and flavorful creations served at every meal.
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Daily morning and evening yoga practices: Mikaela leads a 1.5-hour “Magic Morning” Vinyasa flow that blends breathwork, meditation, and journaling, each day centered around a soul-stirring theme that carries through the rest of the day. In the evening, wind down with 75-minute sessions ranging from Yin and gentle Vinyasa to Restorative Yoga and Yin + Yoga Nidra.
Yoga props on site: Mats, bolsters, blocks, blankets, straps, eye pillows.
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A private hot/cold contrast spa ritual.
This 2 hour circuit consists of:
a luxurious outdoor hot/cold shower with Mist’s house eucalyptus shower spray
a wood-fire sauna with views of the forest
a cold plunge tub
a warm soaking tub
and a beautifully cultivated outdoor rest area with fire
Read more about MIST here.
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A practice of deep listening to yourself and others through meditation, breathwork, guided group circle sharing, and meaningful partner connection, fostering a profound sense of presence and understanding.
Guests from previous retreats have shared that this part of the experience was one of the most transformative and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on their personal journey.
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Mikaela will lead a 45-minute afternoon Pilates class (with resistance bands) designed to activate deep muscle groups, synchronize movement with breath, and energize the entire body!
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Goodies:
You’ll receive an Evolve journal and pen along with a welcome swag bag! Yoga mats and Pilates props will be available for your use during our retreat.
Explore:
During your free time, feel free to explore the local artisan square and shops in town, just a 2-minute bus ride away.
Grafton Lake Trail offers a gentle, scenic hike (about 1.5 hours round trip) — perfect for those craving a peaceful walk through the forest.
Recharge:
Nectar offers an abundance of spaces to unwind and recharge: lounge chairs to soak up the surroundings, a cozy pergola for peaceful moments, the open-concept Onyx Lodge featuring large couches, puzzles, coloring books, and a library for leisurely reading. Explore the short nature trails on the property, or enjoy the yoga shala (available for your use between classes).
An experience that draws you inward.
YOUR RETREAT INCLUDES:
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Your travel to Bowen Island is not included in the retreat cost. Mikaela will create a WhatsApp group two months prior to the retreat to help coordinate communication and carpooling (driving + ferry) for those interested.
Check in: 3:00pm
Check out: 11:00am
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Massage appointments will be available during downtime on a first-come first-served basis, taking place in the cozy spa cabin on the property.
NOT INCLUDED:
Accommodation Options:
The Amber Room
The Amber Room offers a cozy, private space for one guest.
Double bed, shared washroom with shower and locally-made toiletries
Located upstairs in the main Onyx Lodge, our communal space, with Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi
Click “learn more” for booking and additional photos
The Turquoise Room
The Turquoise Room offers a cozy, private space for one guest.
Double bed, shared washroom with shower and locally-made toiletries
Located upstairs in the main Onyx Lodge, our communal space, with Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi
Click “learn more” for booking and additional photos
The Emerald Room
The Emerald Room is a private, spacious room for two guests.
Flexibility of a king bed or two twin beds for a comfortable stay, ensuite washroom with shower and locally-made toiletries
Located upstairs in the main Onyx Lodge, our communal space, with Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi
Click “learn more” for booking and additional photos
The A-Frame Cabins
Three charming and peaceful private cabins, each designed for a single guest, offering simplicity and seclusion. Each cabin features a large picture window that frames the peaceful view of the surrounding foliage, providing a serene retreat. All cabins have the same layout.
Double bed, access to 2 shared bathrooms with showers and locally-made toiletries, covered front deck with seating
Wi-Fi available in the Onyx Lodge
Click “learn more” for booking & additional photos
The Deluxe Cottages
Our three, spacious Deluxe Cottages are ideal for 2-3 guests, offering plenty of space to relax, read, journal, or reflect on your retreat experience. If adding a third guest, please note that their cozy space is in the loft, accessible by a ladder, so comfort with climbing is required.
2 XL twin beds + loft (single twin), ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, locally-made toiletries
Covered front deck with year-round seating, reading nook, writing desk
Mini fridge, kettle, mugs, assorted teas
Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi
Click “learn more” for booking & additional photos
The Moonstone Cottage
This cozy cottage, shared by two guests, offers similar amenities as our deluxe cottages with added privacy. Wake up to sunbeams through the windows and enjoy tea on the porch by the Alder grove, all while being surrounded by peaceful seclusion.
2 XL twin beds (can be made into a king), ensuite washroom with sink & toilet, outdoor shower (hot water), locally-made toiletries
Covered back deck with year-round seating, reading chairs & coffee table
Mini fridge, kettle, mugs, assorted teas
Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi
Click “learn more” for booking & additional photos
Photography: Ali Berrada, Folk Fotos, Studio Jeanie, and Jamie YW Lee





















FAQ
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We are dedicated to making Evolve Retreats a welcoming space for everyone, whether you’re a solo traveler or coming with a friend, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or completely new to the practice. Our aim is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and inspiring experience for those who want to delve into “living yoga” both on the mat and in everyday life. We practice movement (asana), meditation (dhyāna), breathwork (pranayama), guided journaling (svadhyaya), and come together for group circles and ceremonies. We also embrace fun and adventure through curated group activities and excursions, connecting with the local community and the natural beauty of our surroundings.
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October weather is typically sunny yet cool, with a chance of rain, so layering is key! Pack cozy sweaters, pants, and a jacket, along with comfortable clothing for movement and breaking a sweat. Don’t forget a swimsuit for the MIST thermal experience and some sandals. If you plan to explore the property’s trails or the nearby leisurely hike, bring comfortable walking shoes and a small backpack for essentials.
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If the standard payment option of a non-refundable deposit followed by a later balance payment doesn’t suit your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact Mikaela directly. She would be happy to discuss the possibility of setting up a customized payment plan that better aligns with your preferences.