9 November 2022

5 wellness getaways in La Jacques-Cartier

Spiritual retreats are no longer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Many make a point of going yearly or even seasonally. Want to give it a try? Well, there’s no better place than La Jacques-Cartier to recharge your batteries. Discover 5 wellness getaway!

photo: Katerina May

This region is perfect for a calming natural getaway, despite being just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the capital. It’s hardly surprising that so many retreat centres have chosen this idyllic wonderland as their home! Here are 5 places that are perfect for your next inner journey.

Le Temple, Sanctuary in Nature

Location: Sainte-Brigitte-de-Laval

Temple yoga
photo : courtesy Le Temple

Le Temple has put down roots in the mountains. This gorgeous retreat features 6 rooms, a lounge with hanging chairs, a fireplace, a mezzanine with meditation swings, a yoga studio with Himalayan salt walls, a glass greenhouse filled with tropical plants, and 3 outdoor patios and balconies.

All tucked away in the heart of the forest. Simply put, it’s paradise on Earth. The healing centre is available for group rentals, but also offers one-day workshops and full healing retreats focusing on various themes.

Its activities include yoga, meditation, conscious breathing, nature therapy, energy healing, and much more.

Centre Hũna

Location: Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury

Le TEmple sanctuaire
Photo: courtesy Centre Huna

The Centre Hũna offers its guests transformative stays inside an old barn that was fully renovated, mostly with reclaimed, eco-friendly, and natural materials. This sun-dappled building is nestled in a valley and surrounded by mountains, a field, and a river.

It’s a minimalist space with 4 rooms, an indoor yoga studio, and a wooden deck. The centre offers full retreats, but also individual yoga and meditation classes, drumming, coaching, and mindfulness rituals.

And you’ll enjoy reconnecting with nature no matter what you choose!

Centre de l’Hêtre

Location: Sainte-Brigitte-de-Laval

Dome Centre de l'Hêtre
Photo: courtesy Centre de l’Hêtre

Domes, yurts, tiny houses, tiny cabins, teepees… The Centre de l’Hêtre offers several different places to stay on its sprawling site in Sainte-Brigitte-de-Laval.

There are several packages available to help you reconnect with yourself and with nature. In addition to its unique accommodations, the centre offers massage therapy, handpan (drum) therapy, meditation, yoga, and coaching.

There are also hiking trails (including the Montagnard) and access to the lake. You can even personalize your retreat by choosing activities individually or in packages. This is a great option if you need some alone time, but also want to try some of the activities.

Gîte des Belvédères – Spiritual retreat

Location: Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury

parcours initiatique en nature
Photo: courtesy du Gîte des Belvédères

Amidst the lush natural scenery of Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury is an oasis of serenity: the Gîte des Belvédères. The place is perfect for those who are looking to take the first steps into their inner world. You won’t have to do it alone, either, as one-on-one coaching is available with every stay.

The lodge also offers energy healing, meditation exercises, and mindfulness walks. You can choose a shorter 2- or 3-night stay if you need a quick recharge or a more complete retreat that lasts 4 to 7 nights. No matter how long you stay, you’ll benefit from the soothing mountain views from your room.

Le Nordique Spa Stoneham

Location: Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury

Nordique spa Stoneham
Photo: courtesy Nordique Spa Stoneham

Even if you aren’t ready for a full inner journey, you can still treat yourself to some R&R. Take things at your own pace! The Jacques-Cartier river is still an excellent setting for a break. Le Nordique Spa Stoneham is a wonderful place to take care of your mind and body alike.

The site, which sits on the banks of the majestic Rivière Jacques-Cartier, now has brand new tiny houses. Each one is 360 square feet and can sleep two people. Inside, there is a queen bed, a full bathroom, a kitchenette, and a living room with fireplace, with a spacious covered deck outside.

Each reservation comes with two passes for the Nordic baths. It’s time to relax!

So, ready to recharge your batteries?


Written by :  Marilyn Préfontaine, L’éclaireuse