Xenia Retreat Centre

Heal, create, and transform in nature.

Canada Bowen Island paid

located on Bowen Island, Xenia Retreat Centre offers a sanctuary spanning 38 acres, dedicated to fostering healing, creativity, and personal transformation. With a 30-year legacy of land stewardship, this center provides a unique setting for reconnecting with nature and one's true essence. Guests can find solace in unique wooden cottages, wander among towering old-growth trees, and discover intentionally crafted spaces for meditation and reflection. The center's mission is to provide a quiet sanctuary that encourages contemplation, creativity, and healing, offering tranquil lodging amidst meadows and forests. It's a place where deep healing work and creative expression are nurtured, all within a natural environment designed for relaxation and connection.

Highlights

38-acre sanctuary with 30 years of land stewardship
Unique wooden cottages and intentionally crafted meditation spaces
Restored 1880s heritage Lodge with communal kitchen
30ft yurt, 'The Gathering Place', for group work
Electricity-free 'Sanctuary' for deep meditative work

Good for

nature loverscreative expressionpersonal transformationhealing retreatsgroup events

Setting

Xenia is set within 38 acres of meadows and old-growth trees on Bowen Island, surrounded by lush parkland and lakes. The atmosphere is one of tranquility and deep connection with the natural world, with intentionally designed spaces for reflection and group activities.

The practice

While Xenia Retreat Centre does not adhere to a specific tradition, it provides a supportive environment for various contemplative practices. Guests are encouraged to engage in meditation and reflection within the center's serene natural settings, fostering personal growth and self-discovery. The focus is on creating space for individual healing and creative expression.

A typical day

The daily rhythm at Xenia Retreat Centre varies depending on the specific program or event. Guests can expect a balance of structured activities, such as group sessions in the yurt or quiet time in the Sanctuary, alongside ample opportunities for personal reflection and exploration of the natural surroundings.

Accommodation

Guests stay in unique wooden cottages designed for relaxation and connection with nature. The Lodge, a restored 1880s heritage building, offers communal kitchen facilities and a group dining area.

What to bring

Given Bowen Island's climate, with wet months in December, March, and October, and cooler temperatures in winter, pack layers and waterproof outerwear. Comfortable clothing for meditation and walking the grounds is also advisable.

Website xeniacentre.com

Address 782 Smith Road, , Bowen Island, BC, CA, V0N 1G2

How to get there

To reach Xenia, take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Bowen Island. Upon arrival, drive up the hill, turn right onto Mt Gardner Road, then keep right onto Woods Road, and finally turn right onto Smith Road. Xenia will be on your left.

Nearest airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) (24 km)

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is approximately 24 km from the center. Guests typically arrange their own transportation from the airport to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal.

Nearest city: Vancouver

Languages

English

How to book

Please check the Xenia Retreat Centre website for details on how to book specific retreats or venue rentals.

Pricing

Pricing starts from USD50, but specific retreat costs will vary. Please consult the center's website for detailed pricing information on individual programs.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Xenia Retreat Centre website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Jun, Jul, Jan

Avoid: Dec, Mar, Oct

Bowen Island experiences an annual average temperature of 9.9°C. The warmest months are August, July, and September, while the coolest are February, January, and December. While June, July, and January are the driest, December, March, and October tend to be the wettest, so be prepared for varying weather conditions depending on the season of your visit.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of meals are served at Xenia Retreat Centre?

Meals at Xenia are vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. The center is also able to cater to any specific dietary restrictions or allergies participants may have.

How do I get to Xenia Retreat Centre on Bowen Island?

To reach Xenia, you'll first travel to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal in West Vancouver. From there, take the 20-minute ferry ride to Bowen Island. Once on the island, follow the directions up Mt Gardner Road, then Woods Road, and finally Smith Road until you see Xenia on your left. Having a car or ridesharing is recommended.

Are there amenities available for guests?

Yes, guests have access to free WiFi, a sauna, free parking, and a communal kitchen. Tour assistance can also be provided.

What types of activities or programs are offered?

Xenia is a venue for events and programs focused on healing, creativity, and personal transformation. While specific programs vary, common themes include meditation, leadership, and social change.

Is Xenia Retreat Centre suitable for beginners in meditation?

Yes, Xenia provides a tranquil space that supports contemplation and personal development, making it suitable for individuals at any stage of their meditative journey. The focus is on creating an environment for self-discovery rather than adhering to a strict practice tradition.