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Vancouver Island Trail Running + Wellness Retreat

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This Retreat is Level I

This retreat is rated Level I. This means it’s suitable for you if:

  • You’re comfortable running/hiking six days in a row for around 1 to 3 hours (including hiking sections, water breaks and photo ops)
  • Runs are no more than 6 miles
  • Good fitness is required, however. Some of the trails have boardwalks and stairs--LOTS of stairs!
  • Be comfortable walking up and down several hundred stairs at a time (not running). 
  • You’re game for potentially running in the rain (we provide you with a comprehensive packing list).
  • You have (or are willing to acquire before the retreat) trail running shoes and a hydration system

Learn more about how we manage run pacing here: https://runwildretreats.com/about-the-run-wild-retreat-experience/levels/
 

About Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is largely covered by temperate rainforest, featuring massive trees such as Douglas Fir, Sitka spruce and giant red cedars, some of which can be nearly 1,000 years old. These forests are dense, humid and thick with foliage such as ferns and mosses, lichens and fungi. All of our runs take place on established trails designed for foot traffic and are not open to bikes. Since the forest ground is so fragile and can be easily scarred by hikers, it’s important to always stay on the designated trail and in some cases, the boardwalk and wooden stairs. Since these wooden surfaces can get a bit slippery when wet, we will use caution in wet conditions and walk when its safer to do so.
Some trail sections may be rooty and rocky and present a challenge for new trail runners, in which case, you can walk or modify your running stride to account for this uneven trail surface. When we are running on the beaches, the ground surface is mostly hard-packed sand, and is ideal for running. We may have to cross some tidal creek (when the tide is out to avoid wading through water).

Magnolia Hotel + Spa, Victoria

The Magnolia Hotel & Spa, located in Victoria’s historic inner harbor, Situated in the heart of downtown Victoria, British Columbia, The Magnolia Hotel & Spa is an award-winning small hotel that is big on personalized service. Recognized by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast and Trip Advisor as a top hotel in Canada, the hotel’s timelessly elegant rooms, exquisite spa, fine dining and personalized recommendations create an authentic experience. Your Superior hotel room features 300 square feet of elegant space and will have two queen beds (Shared room package). Or, you may choose to upgrade to a private room with one bed. Enhance your retreat experience with a spa treatment by contacting the Magnolia Spa directly.

 

Guided Mindful Runs

Learn how to run more mindfully to become a better runner with mindful running. This includes natural running form clinics during which you'll learn about the Power Posture: use proper alignment to make gravity do more of the work. This reduces the muscular force involved with running so it feels easier and less strenuous on muscles and joints. You'll also practice using natural running techniques to drastically improve efficiency. You'll practice changing stride length, cadence and tempo on various types of terrain. Then put the pieces together to achieve the ultimate trail running experience. Learn to cultivate the circumstances for flow to occur by being relaxed and mindful.

The Climate

This time of year, temperatures are starting to cool off and will be mostly in the high 40’s to high 50’s. Rain is highly likely, so it’s important to have a waterproof-breathable running rain jacket (that offers more protection than a wind shell). We will send you a comprehensive packing list so you know what to bring. The weather is typically milder and warmer in Victoria, and will feel cooler in Tofino and Ucluelet, especially because of this area’s exposure to winds and weather blowing in off the Pacific Ocean. You will appreciate having a warm jacket to wear in the cool evenings and accessories like a hat and light gloves to wear while running.

Whale Watching Tour in Clayoquot Sound

Clayoquot Sound is very popular with gangs of transient killer whales that are on the hunt for food. Annually we also enjoy record numbers of humpback whales and our summer resident gray whales. This 2.5-hour boat tour with a local outfitter will get us as close as possible to these magnificent mammals without disturbing them in their natural habitat. 

Because much of this coast is uninhabited and accessible only by boat or floatplane… it remains a pristine wilderness.  This rich and nutrient filled ocean is loaded with a variety of marine wildlife including many different species of whales as well as harbour seals and sealions, sea otters, porpoises and a myriad of birdlife including puffins, blue herons and bald eagles. This activity provides financial support in the form of an Ecological Stewardship Fee (ESF) to help the marine ecosystem in Clayoquot Sound. Note: this activity may not be suitable for those who are pregnant or prone to motion sickness. 

Long Beach Lodge Resort, Tofino

This luxurious beachfront resort is perched on the edge of Cox Bay, between the pristine beauty of Pacific Rim National Park and spectacular Clayoquot Sound. Lodge Beach Lodge is cedar-shingled lodge offers 5-star amenities and casual service in a rustic setting, creating a perfect, serene retreat from everyday responsibilities. The Resort is set among native coastal vegetation and takes full advantage of the expansive sandy beach and the open ocean.
If you book a private room package, your room will have a King bed, soaker tub, luxurious bathrobe, in-room coffee, Douglas-fir wood furniture, slate-tiled floor and high-speed internet access. 
If you book a shared room package, you will either share a stay in either a shared lodge room or two-bedroom cottage with two bathrooms, living area, in-room coffee, outdoor hot tub on a semi-private patio, luxurious bathrobes and high-speed internet. 

 

Yoga on the Beach

Weather permitting, enjoy an afternoon private yoga class on the firm sand of Long Beach, where the grandeur of the Pacific Ocean serves as your backdrop for this mindful movement class with a professional yoga instructor. This gentle yoga class is suitable for beginners and those who've never done yoga before. The focus is on stretching and loosening running muscles to help you feel fresh and limber the rest of the retreat. Mats and props are provided. 

Dedicated Retreat Leader

Our highly trained retreat leaders provide the space and support for you to have a potentially transformational experience. As experts in mindful leadership, she provides valuable guidance on how to be mindful on and off the trail. Here's more about what you can expect from your retreat leader:

  • Leads the opening meeting on Day 1, explaining what you can expect, the general flow of each day, what's expected of you, how she'll support you and all the other logistics you need.
  • Works with our local staff, such as guides and drivers, to keep things safe, on schedule and running smoothly
  • Leads mindful running clinics that teach you how to run more efficiently and with more flow and ease
  • Manages the pace of each run so that you never feel rushed or get left behind
  • Helps you get to scheduled events like yoga class, spa appointment and dinner reservations on time
  • Facilitates sharing circles, creating a safe space for the group to reflect and share openly
  • Provides emotional support if ever you need it

Run Wild Retreats Gift Bag

Your retreat package includes are variety of items such as the ones listed here. Gift bag items may vary based on availability at the time of your retreat. 
Add-on +US$79

Transformational Travel Kit


The Transformational Travel Kit contains hand-selected items to support you in having a meaningful travel experience. Featuring the book, "Transformational Travel Journal: Your guide to creating a life-changing journey" by Eric Rupp, this kit also contains:

* 27-ounce stainless steel water bottle with sport cap, made by Klean Kanteen exclusively for Run Wild Retreats
* Embossed faux-leather luggage tag
*Two high-quality vinyl stickers "I Run Mindfully"

Shipping is FREE!

 

Add-on +US$142

Mindful Inspiration Running Kit

The Mindful Running Inspiration Kit is filled with custom items that will support and inspire you to consistently practice your healthy running habits.

Get inspired to continue your practice every time you reach for your mindful running gear, and take to the streets and trails knowing you are feeding your soul and fueling your good health in the long run. Your Mindful Running Inspiration Kit Includes:

  • “I Run Mindfully” women's technical run t-shirt
  •  Run Intention Bracelet
  •  27-oz Stainless Steel Klean Kanteen bottle with sport cap
  • “I Run Mindfully” vinyl stickers (pack of 2)
  •  Mindful Running Training Log
  • “Run Mindfully” Intention Bracelet

Share and celebrate the joy of maintaining a daily running practice, while reminding you that no matter where you take your shoes — from Moab to the Mediterranean — you’re part of a community of healthy runners who support you on this path.

Shipping is FREE!

 

Location
Tofino, BC, Canada
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