Wellness Travel at Hastings House
Have a Spa Vacation, Fitness Retreat or Relaxing Holiday in BC
Travel to Hastings House, a Salt Spring Island Hotel, for a luxury spa treatment, fine dining experience or wellness retreat. Reservations: 1-800-661-9255.
The reputation of Hastings House Country House Hotel is unparalleled on Salt Spring Island. Although the west coast region of British Columbia, Canada, speaks for itself with rugged coastlines, wildlife sightings and a leisurely attitude, Hastings House is a local bragging right. Residents regard the impeccable estate as one of the highest quality on the island.
Hastings House Country House Hotel
“Unique” is an understatement for this exceptional Salt Spring Island accommodation. Sprawling over 22-ares of lush B.C. scenery, the hotel features 18 lodging options within six separate buildings. To take a step back in time, try the suites in the graceful Manor House. Built in the late 1930’s, it mirrors the past owner’s own 11th century home in Sussex, England, with the addition of tranquil views over Ganges Harbour. Half-timbered ceilings combined with thick wooden doors and a stone fireplace (with pre-chopped wood) add to the appeal of a private estate.
Alternative options include west coast-style deluxe suites, restored historic buildings, and a secluded cottage for a family of up to five. All are diverse aspects of country living and make repeat visits to different suites a common occurrence. Prices range from $295 CDN to $800 CDN per night, plus a daily $20 resort fee and $10 delivery charge for breakfast.
Spa Vacation
While out in the “country,” the most luxurious thing to do is have a spa treatment. The Hastings House spa is a cosy haven of relaxation and balance. Practitioners are accommodating, warm and can customize the session to give you the most out of your time.
Start with a 60 or 90-minute massage with essential oils and balms, or kick it up with a localized sports massage. Make sure to include your feet, as the therapist uses pressure points to re-circulate energy. Your skin will thank you by choosing a Decléor body wrap or signature facial. Packages start at $65 CDN for manicures and go up to $200 CDN for a two-hour experience. Make sure to book appointments in advance, as there are only two treatment rooms.
West Coast Dining
Dining at Hastings House is another special treat. Chef Marcel Kauer’s west coast cuisine has been awarded many accolades and honours, all undeniably deserved. With the focus on fresh ingredients from the Pacific Northwest, dishes live up to the Salt Spring Island label, “The Organic Gardening Capital of Canada.”
Host to the dining room is the Manor House building. A bustling fireplace ignites friendly conversation and a comfortable mood. Overlooking Ganges Harbour, the twilight reflects off the candles for romantic evenings and peaceful dinners. Buy the hotel’s cookbook if you want to take some of the atmosphere home with you.
Activities on Salt Spring Island
Country living isn’t about being lazy. Grab one of the complimentary mountain bikes and head to the hills. A round trip ride to Vesuvius Bay is a nice, but hilly route, taking 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how many breaks you take to snap photos and marvel at the surroundings.
Leave the Hastings House driveway and turn right on Robinson Road. Take the second left at Upper Road and continue through the winding street. Watch for cars, as the shoulder gets narrow in spots. Follow this road all the way to the ferry terminal, passing gorgeous houses, quaint shops and friendly people. Explore some of the side streets with artist studio signs and happy dogs before heading back up the road. Take a right at the large intersection onto Lower Ganges Road, where you can follow it to downtown Ganges or loop back up to Hastings House.
Getting to Salt Spring Island
Probably the most welcoming airline around, Salt Spring Air offers daily direct flights between Vancouver and Ganges. Choose from the airport terminal or downtown location in Vancouver and you’ll remember what it’s like to fly with a company who actually cares. Call them at 1-877-537-9880 and land within five minutes of Hastings House.
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