Where is Nectar Yoga Retreat located?
Nectar Yoga Retreat is located at 720 Gardner Lane on Bowen (traditionally known as Nexwlélexwm), just a short 20 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal.

Getting to Horseshoe Bay
Public transportation:
The West Vancouver Blue Bus numbers 250, 257, 257 Express and 259 leave from Downtown Vancouver and West Vancouver at regular intervals to Horseshoe Bay. If you’re coming from the Vancouver airport, you’ll need to take the SkyTrain Canada Line to City Centre before hopping on the 257 Express to Horseshoe Bay.

Vehicle:
Follow Highway 1 West (Trans-Canada Highway). You can drive your car onto the ferry or park in the secure parking garage at Horseshoe Bay and walk on the ferry. We recommend bringing a car.

Crossing the ocean:
The Queen of Capilano ferry (the Bowen Island Ferry) leaves Horseshoe Bay between 5:50 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The crossing time is 20 minutes.

If you’re travelling by BC Ferries, your ticket is a return trip. When you head back to the mainland of BC, just line up for the ferry and drive or walk on the ferry when the light turns green.

Click here for the ferry schedule from Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Bowen Island (Snug Cove)

Click here for the ferry schedule from Bowen Island (Snug Cove) to Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay)

It’s recommended to check the ferry sailing’s current conditions, including possible cancellations, estimated real-time departures and vehicle space.

Address: 720 Gardner Lane, Bowen Island, BC.

Travelling by Vehicle:
Once off the ferry, drive up Bowen Island Truck Road, which changes name to Grafton Road, for about 7 minutes. Once you reach Gardner Lane, turn right and follow the signs to Nectar.

Travelling by Public transportation:
When you arrive on Bowen Island, find the Bus Stop close to the Red Library. You will get on the 280 (Snug Cove to Bluewater) bus. Tell the driver you are getting off at 720 Gardner Lane. You can pay for your fare with a Compass Card, credit card or cash. Any transfer you receive from the Vancouver buses will work on Bowen Island with no extra charge.

View 280 Bus Schedule Here

NOTE:The bus runs on a very limited schedule on weekends. Currently, the last 280 bus (Bluewater to Snug Cove) leaves Adams at Cowan Road to head back to Snug Cove is at 5:30pm. 

Travelling by Foot/hitchhiking:
For a real taste of the Bowen Island lifestyle, hitch a ride with a local. Either wait on the road or at any of the designated "LIFT" spots and stick out your thumb. You should get a ride—and a new friend—in no time.

Travelling by Bike:
If you are planning to bring your bike, please be aware that Bowen Island is very hilly and not an easy ride. But if that’s your thing—more power to you. Just follow the on-foot directions above. You can also rent eBikes from Bowen eBikes in the summer months.

Do you have parking on site?
Yes, we have parking on-site, please choose any available spot but try to park tightly so we can accommodate everyone.

EV Charging?
If you need an EV charging station, there is one in Snug Cove, located at the public library.

Should I bring a vehicle?
Yes, if you have the option to bring a vehicle, we do recommend having a car on the island. You will be able to see so much more that the island has to offer.

Yes. We have overnight accommodation for guests booking a two-night (or longer) Nectar Experience, Nectar Hosted overnight retreat, or third-party hosted overnight retreat.

What is the difference between your cottages?

Deluxe Cottages:
Spacious and amenity-rich, including in-room Wi-Fi, Smart televisions, and attached bathrooms.
*Note, the outdoor showers in the Deluxe Cottages are turned off when winter temperatures drop below freezing.

A-Frames:
A-Frames are more pared back. Guests staying in them share two, detached washrooms that is a short outdoor walk. A-frames are all in the same area with similar views and distances to the Onyx Lodge. 

Moonstone Cottage:
A secluded space with a private washroom and outdoor deck. Open seasonally.

Onyx Lodge Rooms:
Each have Wi-Fi + Smart televisions; the Emerald Room accommodates 1 guest and has a private bathroom. The Amber + Turquoise Rooms are for solo travellers and share a bathroom.

60 Minute Private class bookings are available for Nectar Experience and off-site guests visiting Bowen Island who are looking to take a class in our beautiful geodesic dome. Online classes are also available to book. Please email us to book: info@nectaryoga.ca

Each hour-long session is personalized to your needs and goals. Learn the fundamentals and receive alignment adjustments. Ask questions and go deeper into postures. Modify your practice for injuries or illness, and have fun while learning more about your body. The choice is yours.

We teach hatha, yin, and power-flow, and upon request, mat Pilates, for any level and type of body and offer private and semi-private lessons. Sessions can occur at Nectar, in our geodesic dome, or at your home. We also offer online sessions through Zoom.

You don't need to book an overnight stay to experience Nectar. A few ways to visit for the day:

• Yoga on the Pier— seasonal, warm-months drop-in outdoor classes open to the public.

• Nectar Hosted Retreats, Classes & Events — afternoon, evening, and full-day offerings, open to both Bowen Island residents and visitors; no overnight stay required.

• Mist Thermal Sanctuary — book a sauna and cold plunge session at our sister property, no Nectar stay required.

Applicable to Nectar Experience guests and third-party hosted retreat guests.

We provide a fridge and microwave in the Onyx Lodge for storing or reheating any pre-made meals or snacks you bring. Filtered water, a kettle, tea and coffee are also available, along with cups, mugs, dishes, and cutlery.

Please note: tea and coffee are not provided for day retreats or evening classes.

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies, aside from special dietary preferences like keto or low carb. We are a meat-free kitchen and can offer gluten-free and vegan options. We do use gluten and nuts in the kitchen, so if you're Celiac or have a nut allergy, please notify us in advance.

If you have an extreme or complex allergy or restriction, we recommend reaching out to us directly before booking so we can confirm we're able to accommodate you safely.

Barcelona Tapas & Wine Bar
Tuscany
Artisan Eats Café
Bowen Island Pub
Tippys Cookhouse
Cocoa West Chocolatier
Tell Your Friends Café
Riley’s Cidery
Copper Spirit Distillery
Branch on Bowen

Bowen Island boasts of many outdoor activites, including parks, hiking trails, beaches, lakes, and more. Nectar Yoga Retreat also offers several relaxation and wellness activities. We list a few of the most popular tourist activities below. Read a sample itinerary for your Bowen Island stay HERE.

Crippen Regional Park
Crippen surrounds Snug Cove, allowing you to walk off the ferry and, within five minutes, find yourself on a temperate rainforest trail.

Mt. Gardner
Mount Gardner, Bowen Island’s highest peak at 719m, offers a vigorous hike with stunning panoramic views of Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island. Three trailheads and various routes lead to the north summit, where you'll find two helicopter platforms perfect for enjoying lunch and the scenery.

Bowen Island Golf Course
Recognized as one of Canada's top 25 nine-hole courses, the award-winning Bowen Island Golf Club is open to the public and boasts stunning views of Howe Sound.

Bowen Island Community Beaches
Community Beaches are frequently visited by the community and off-island visitors. They are easily accessible and are assigned the highest degree of maintenance and monitoring. We love Sandy Beach and Tunstall Bay Beach the most.

Hot Sauna and Cold Plunge
Prebook a Contrast Therapy Circuit Session at our sister company, Mist Thermal Sanctuary, opening Fall 2024.

Breathwork on Bowen
Recent studies show that breathwork can alleviate anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, and improve sleep quality. You will be guided through breath techniques to enhance vibrancy and well-being.

Reiki Healing on Bowen
"Reiki," derived from two Japanese words, "rei" (universal) and "ki" (life energy), involves no-contact hand gestures to enhance the flow of universal life energy. People report experiencing deep relaxation, calm, and an alleviation of stress.

Events Calendar
We invite you to also browse through our events calendar, where many day, afternoon, and evening events are open to all!

If you booked a 2-night or 4-night Nectar Experience package, check-in is at 3:00 PM on your arrival day, and check-out is at 11:00 AM on your departure day.

What style of yoga classes do you teach?
Our guided yoga classes are taught on the foundation of alignment-based flow and will incorporate a variety of styles and movements, with modifications provided. We adjust our teachings according to the season, so you’ll always be in tune with the rhythmic changes of our natural surroundings. Our classes often include instruction on meditation and breath as well.

What should I bring?

• Layered clothing suitable for the season

• Comfortable, breathable clothes and socks for meditation and yoga in the dome

• Yoga mat (we have props available for purchase and mats you can borrow, if needed)

• Rain jacket (we provide umbrellas)

• Walking shoes

• Swimsuit (for Mist Thermal Sanctuary or swimming at a nearby beach)

• Beach towel (for beach use; our towels are for in-room use only)

• Sunglasses

• Natural mosquito repellent and sunscreen

• Water bottle

• Flashlight

• Books, notebook and pen
  

What should I not to bring?

• Expensive valuables

• Candles, incense or anything flammable

• Pets

• Scent products and perfumes

• Kindly avoid luggage with wheels unless you can easily carry it, as our pathways consist of loose gravel.

Nectar provides:

• soaps, shampoo, and conditioner- hair dryers

• hot water bottles

• q-tips

• elastics

• fans

Do I need to bring my yoga mat and accessories?
We provide all mats and accessories. Our on-site boutique, Nectar Goods, also offers props for purchase.

Do you have a photography or phone policy?
For a truly immersive experience, we encourage leaving your phone in your cottage. Feel free to capture photos in the dome after class or anywhere else on the property. If you share these on social media, tag us @nectaryoga. We adore seeing your captured moments!

Are your massage practitioners RMTs?
No, they are specially trained body workers we have carefully selected.

Can I book a 90-min massage?
Yes, subject to the practitioners’ availability.

Can I add additional services after I complete my booking?
30 days before your arrival, you'll receive an email containing links to the practitioners' booking calendars.
*As private contractors, their availability is not guaranteed.

Is there a sauna for guests to use?
Guests who are looking to enrich their experience can prebook a hot sauna and cold plunge session at Mist Thermal Sanctuary.

Adding a Mist Thermal Experience to Your Nectar Stay

What is the Mist Thermal Experience?
The Mist Thermal Experience is a 90-minute or 120-minute rejuvenating circuit that combines hot and cold therapy within a tranquil, forested setting. Guests enjoy private access to one sauna unit for up to four guests, along with a cold plunge, hot/cold showers, and a cozy outdoor rest area with a fire.

How do I book the Mist Thermal Experience?
To add the Mist Thermal Experience, please visit mistthermal.com to book directly. Availability is limited and not guaranteed for Nectar Experience guests, so early booking is recommended.

What amenities are included?
Guests have access to robes, towels, and slippers and use of Mist botanical products and herbal tea to enhance their experience.

Cancellation Policy
Please visit Mist Thermal FAQ for the cancellation policy.

Nectar Goods Gift Certificate
Redeemable in-store or online for boutique purchases only.

Nectar Experience & Classes Gift Certificate
Redeemable as Personal Credit toward any Nectar Hosted class, event, or retreat — including the Nectar Experience Package.

Not applicable toward Third-Party Hosted Retreats and Events, or Add-On Services. All gift certificate purchases are non-refundable and do not expire.

Can I bring my kids for an overnight stay?
Our retreat space is designed to provide a peaceful, restorative environment for adults. Children must be 16 years of age or older to stay or attend events/classes at Nectar, and they must be paid for and registered as a guest at the time of booking. The property is not suited for younger children or babies.

Can my kids attend a class, event, or retreat?
Children aged 16 and older are welcome to participate in our classes + events unless otherwise stated, provided they have prior yoga experience and can comfortably engage in a 90-minute adult-focused class. If they are new to yoga, we recommend booking a private session to ensure the experience is supportive and enjoyable.

Can I bring my pet?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate pets in our guest rooms or onsite due to allergy considerations. However, there are excellent overnight boarding options available through Wagsville, the Bowen Island Dog Ranch, or The Cat’s Pajamas.

There is also an animal farm next door where you can visit donkeys, horses, goats, sheep, and dogs.

Payment: Full payment is required to secure your booking, unless otherwise specified. To read our complete terms & conditions and refund policy, click here.

Cancellation: A full refund of your booking payment will be given if the booking is cancelled at least 30 days prior to arrival, minus a 5% administrative fee on the total booking cost. Within 0–29 days, there will be no refunds for cancellations, and changes cannot be made to the booking.

Applicable towards: Nectar Hosted Retreats, Classes & Events only. Not applicable to: Third-Party Hosted Retreats and Events — please refer to your retreat host's own cancellation policy.

Classes + Private Yoga Classes
Full refund if cancelled 48+ hours before the class. Within 48 hours, no refund, but you may transfer your spot to another person at no cost.

Day Retreats
Full refund if cancelled 10+ days before. No refund inside 10 days, but you may transfer your spot to another person at no cost.

Overnight Retreats
Full refund minus a 5% administrative fee if cancelled 45+ days prior to arrival. No refund within 0–44 days.

BC Ferries Cancellations
If BC Ferries cancels the sailing on the day of your booking, you'll receive an automatic rebooking credit with no penalty, regardless of which tier above applies.

Cancellation and refund policies for Third-Party Hosted Retreats and Events are set entirely at the discretion of the retreat host. Please check in directly with your retreat host for their specific policy.

Nectar is not associated in any way with the payments collected for these retreats and events.

Check-in times, scheduling and inclusions for these retreats and events are also at the discretion of the retreat host and may vary — please confirm your exact arrival time and schedule directly with them. Check-out remains 11:00 AM for all stays, regardless of retreat.

How do you give back?
Our commitment to social responsibility and sustainability is at the core of our mission. We actively seek opportunities to contribute meaningfully to Bowen Island and the larger community. We recognize the privilege of being able to give back and approach it with heartfelt gratitude. In late 2023, Nectar has pledged and applied to become a certified 1% For The Planet member. Other ways we give back include Accessible Pricing Initiatives for Individuals and Groups and charity contributions.

Do you have a work/trade program?Our Work Trade program offers a unique opportunity for individuals worldwide to immerse themselves in our retreat while contributing to our community. Participants enjoy a two-night stay in exchange for labour and help with various projects, including gardening, outdoor renovations, painting, and other tasks that benefit from an extra set of hands. Work hours are distributed across both the check-in day and the second day, totaling 7.5 hours for participants.

If this sounds like a fit for you, please Apply Here with your story and your ideal dates. If you have a specific skill, please mention that, too!

Where do I find information about your design and build process, your buildings and dome, and/or your contractors?
While we are grateful that you love our physical spaces, much of our knowledge are the fruits we have invested in overtime. As a small family-run business, our priority is to focus strictly on what we do best - holding space and seeding consciousness - as such, we do not share trade information.

For press, media, and influencers, our media kit shares our story and includes a selection of quality, downloadable images.