What to expect from a weekend at Halcyon Hot Springs
Story By: NowMedia Staff
Just think about it — a weekend off the grid with your favourite people, or that one special someone. A time to get out of the city, unwind and relax. At first, the thought seems absolutely perfect. But someone in the group will bring up cost, or distance, or concern as to what the heck you are going to do for the whole weekend in the middle of nowhere.
Our group decided to spend a girls weekend at Halcyon Hot Springs, and it was the perfect way to satisfy all of the concerns above. No one in our group had ever been, and we decided it would be an amazing way to disconnect from the city and reconnect as friends while relaxing in the hot springs.
And, wow! Were we ever surprised to learn that there is so much more to do and see, and it ended up being one of our best trips yet!
If you’ve been thinking about taking a fun, relaxing and easy weekend trip, you should definitely consider Halcyon Hot Springs — here’s why.
A scenic ride
With beautiful trees, scenic valley views and a short ferry ride across Arrow Lake, the four and a half hour drive from Kelowna to Halcyon not only goes by quickly, but offers some incredible scenes to take in while you’re en route. Located about an hour south-east of Revelstoke, your path will wind you through the start of the Kootenay’s and along the Columbia River until you reach Shelter Bay where you can drive your vehicle onto the 100 car ferry, free of charge!
The ferry runs every hour during working ferry hours, so try to time yourself accordingly and make sure to look up the hours before you leave! With just a 20 minute commute across the lake, you have time to get out of the car, stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful scenery before the last short leg of the drive.
Cottages in the woods
A unique feature about Halcyon Hot Springs is that there isn’t a hotel on site. Instead, choose from a variety of chalets, cottages and cabins depending on the amount of space you need and your budget! All options are within walking distance of the central amenities, and the best part is, you can feel right at home. Feel free to walk around the grounds in the cozy, white robes that are hung and ready for you in your accommodation — you won’t be the only one!
Complete with high-quality finishings, kitchenettes, dining areas, patios and barbeques, it’s easy to settle in and get comfortable. Each accommodation is surrounded by nature and some even offer lovely views of the lake.
Amenities and activities galore
While most people come to soak in the hot springs, that’s definitely not all that the resort has to offer! We were pleasantly surprised with the number of activities to enjoy right on site, and our weekend itinerary filled up quickly.
Go for a walk or hike to get some fresh air and enjoy all that the beautiful area has to offer. While you explore, visit historical landmarks, like the chapel that was built by General Frederick Burnham in 1945 for his late wife. If you’re looking for something on the adventurous side, use one of the resort’s kayaks or paddle boards and spend some time out on the lake. You can also keep up with your fitness goals at the on-site gym, or join in on a group yoga session overlooking the beautiful lake below.
If serious relaxation is what you’re after, spend some time rejuvenating at the spa. Choose from a variety of massages, manicures, pedicures and skin care treatments, or treat yourself to one of their specialty packages for an all-around pampering experience.
Despite having a busy schedule during the trip, we all came back feeling rested thanks to the fresh air, light exercise and relaxing activities that we enjoyed.
A restaurant that offers it all
Being off the grid doesn’t mean you have to eat like you are. The Kingfisher restaurant on site offers breakfast, lunch and dinner options providing a remarkable view overlooking Upper Arrow Lake and the Monashee Mountains. Our group dressed up for a fancy dinner, ate a casual lunch on the patio, and went straight from the pools to breakfast in our robes!
With cozy, intimate indoor booth seating, a breathtaking outdoor patio view as well as an immaculate private dining area by fireside, you can choose to vacation however you want.
Majority of the food served at the Kingfisher is coming from within 100 miles of the restaurant, providing both healthy and decadent menu items. We even had the head chef show us the herb garden where his culinary crew picks their fresh ingredients!
Regardless of your meal choice, you will not be disappointed as the Executive Chef and culinary team has created a diverse menu to please all appetites, including allergy and dietary restrictions.
Mineral hot springs
Last, but certainly not least — the hot springs. Open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. most days and 11 p.m. on Saturdays, the natural hot springs is the perfect place to wind down.
The Hot Pool, which is set at 42 degrees, is great for easing tension and loosening up those tight muscles. The 38 degree Warm Pool is ideal for longer soaks, where you can float through the jetted swim channel. If the heat becomes too much to bear, take a quick dip in the Cold Plunger, set at a chilly 12 degrees.
We were impressed with how tranquille we felt after soaking in the pools. The combination of the hot spring’s healing minerals (including lithium, sodium, magnesium, calcium and strontium) and the breathtaking views below had an undeniable calming effect.
Feeling relaxed? It’s your turn to experience this amazing B.C. hidden gem. Book your staycation today!
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Experience Halcyon Hot Springs Village & Spa for your next weekend getaway