Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort - A Moms' Getaway Retreat
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort and Conference Centre is located on Vancouver Island. For those of us who live in the Vancouver area, it is easily accessible via BC Ferries and even easier to get to if you're on Vancouver Island. For visitors to either Vancouver or Vancouver Island it's not only worth a visit to Tigh-Na-Mara it's an experience that will provide you with lasting memories of a serene and beautiful environment, exquisite food, fabulous amenities and accommodations.
I have so many great moments to share about our mom's getaway and of course oh so many pictures, too many that I can't get them all here so I created a lovely PHOTO ALBUM that you can look at HERE
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort
I escaped to the Tigh-Na-Mara with two of my closest friends Tammie and Stacey who are pictured above for a mom's getaway that was true bliss.
The Tigh-Na-Mara is an all-season seaside resort that is nestled in 22 acres of Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest with some amazing views of the Strait of Georgia and coastal mountains.
Goats on a Roof?!
They are a few minutes from the centre of the town of Parksville, a short drive to Coombs where you can stop to see the famous Goats on a roof in Coombs which you can see one in the photo below! No matter where you're staying on the resort it's not a long walk down to Rathtrevor beach where you can sit or walk and enjoy the amazing ocean views, smell the salted air, look at the mountains and so much more.
Moms Need to Get Away
We were three tired moms who are always on the go. In fact, my friend Tammie (the one in red) had just returned from a week-long business trip the evening before we left for our mom's trip. We were all more than ready for a weekend away to relax and enjoy the company of good friends.
We were booked in two-bedroom spa bungalow which was steps away from you got it the Grotto Spa the onsite spa which also housed the Treetop Tapas & Grill. Our first night we enjoyed dinner in the town of Coombs and then spent the rest of the evening in our lovely cabin enjoying the fireplace. We, of course, enjoyed each other's company, some wine and then some comfortable beds.
Oceanfront suites at Tigh-Na-Mara
The next morning we had a tasty continental breakfast buffet at the onsite Cedars restaurant. Everything was tasty and fresh, and believe me, if things were up to par these moms aren't shy to say if they're not happy with the food or service.
Exploring the beach
After breakfast, it was time to explore the 22 acres that the resort is nestled amongst. Naturally, we went to the beach where we enjoyed breathtaking views, took in the ocean air and just enjoyed walking along the beach. You can sell more of the beach photos HERE but I've put a few below for you to enjoy.We spent several hours on the beach and worked up a good appetite. We didn't know it but we were in for a night of unparalleled pampering and exquisite food at the Grotto Spa which would be followed by our dining experience at the Treetop Tapas & Grill.
Grotto Spa Mineral Pool
First, we enjoyed getting detoxified in their beautiful mineral pool. Don't you just love the look of it? I was very impressed with how they have thought of everything at the Grotto Spa. From bathrobes to non-slippery flip flops, to the lockers and blow dryers, flat irons and more to do your hair after you're done! If you don't have time or didn't book ahead for a spa treatment you can drop in and pay just to go to the mineral pool, it would be worth it as it's very relaxing.
Treetop Tapas and Grill
If you can get into the Treetop Tapas it is something you do not want to miss (children 13 years of age & older can go to the spa and Treetop Tapas and Grill when with an adult)! After the pool we enjoyed our spa treatments, for me, it was a facial which I thoroughly enjoyed and according to Stacey and Tammie, I was glowing afterwards.
After our treatments and while we waited for our reserved time to get into the Treetop Tapas & Grill you get to sit in their lovely lounge where you can re-hydrate with various water or warm up with coffee and/or tea. We were the first ones to be in the Treetop Tapas and Grill for the evening, so we were brought in and yes you keep wearing our robes. While it might seem weird at first to be seated to eat with robes on trust me you appreciate the robes as time goes on.Cameras and phones are to be left in lockers at all times while in the spa and Treetop Tapas but our lovely hostess Ashlee took a picture for us before anyone else came in. Ashlee explained how it all worked, she would tell us what was in each dish when she brought it out.
The first tapas were brought out and it blew our minds or should I say our taste buds. In fact, EVERY SINGLE food item we had was amazing, I can't tell you enough how good everything was. There was not a single dish that we did not like.
Truly Endless Tapas
We had prawns, salmon, halibut, poultry, beef, vegetables, you name it there was a dish made with it but each one was so unique that I would bet money you've not had that exact dish anywhere else. The flavours were amazing and the service even more so. Each dish is catered to the number of people at your table and there's always a constant progression of food being brought out.
It didn't take long before we started to feel the richness of the food. Tapas can sneak up on you as you think oh these are small servings but all of a sudden you start to feel full. We were getting fuller by the minute but we didn't want to miss tasting the next amazing dish. We asked Ashlee if everyone does all the courses. Apparently not everyone and even though it's called "Endless Tapas" the most she's had people re-order is five more dishes.
This is not what we had but as I couldn't bring in a camera here are some items they have served and each dish always has enough for everyone at your table.
I can't remember how many courses there were but it was at least 10. We didn't make it to the last two which was fruit and cheese and something else. However, we did re-order a prawn dish of which I myself could not indulge again as I was that full. I have a hearty appetite but as try as I might I could not eat everything. Remember the robes? Well, I was thankful to have a loose and comfy robe on when I was so full!I've never experienced so many unique dishes where I loved all of them nor eaten so much or been so full, it was a unique experience that is not to be missed at the Tigh-Na-Mara! We are still talking about how much we loved this experience and can't wait to go back.
We went back to our spa bungalow and enjoyed the rest of the night in and enjoyed all the comforts of the bungalow.
Now don't take my word for (but really you should) it on how spectacular it is to stay at Tigh-Na-Mara, here's what Tammie and Stacey had to say:
Testimonials from the Moms
Tammie:
WOW having never been there and having no expectations whatsoever I was truly overwhelmed with the resort from the 2 bedroom comfortable bungalow that we were fortunate to stay in, access to the beach which we took full advantage of, to the spa that was truly amazing; I had the signature pedicure which even today looks like I just had it done!
When you thought it couldn’t get any better along came the endless Tapa’s – wow, simply divine! I was fortunate to have been invited by a dear friend with whom I have known for over 20 years who knew what I needed before I did, I cannot remember the last time I felt so at home yet I was away from home, the service from everyone we spoke with treated us like royalty and I would sincerely recommend this resort to any and everyone!
Stacey:
Who doesn't love a girls getaway, especially when there's a spa session involved? I love spending time with my family, but I think it's also healthy to find time for yourself or with some girlfriends. We stayed in a perfectly cozy and well-appointed 2 bedroom Spa Bungalow for our stay at this beautiful resort.
We had booked our spa packages well in advance of our stay and they were coordinated perfectly! The Grotto Mineral Pool and hot tub were fantastic and set the mood for the indulgent day we had ahead of us. I had the Glacial Clay & Seaweed Body Wrap treatment which was 90 minutes of pure bliss!
We met up after our treatments in the relaxation lounge & enjoyed complimentary coffee, tea, and fresh fruits as we waited for our table at the Treetop Tapas & Grill, where we indulged in the Endless Tapas, the ultimate foodie's experience! Tigh-Na-Mara is a beautiful resort and I recommend it to anyone needing a getaway.
There you have it, we loved it so much that we're trying to figure out when we can go back! If you're even a few hours drive away from the Tigh-Na-Mara on Vancouver Island you will want to make the time to visit and stay at this fabulous resort. It simply is not to be missed! I also want to go back with my family and we can bring our dogs as they allow pets in their "rustic cabins".
When I say rustic it's an exaggeration as their rustic cabins are so nice. You can see pictures of them on our photo album HERE. They also have pet-sitting services available for an extra fee (so you can go to the spa and your canines are taken care of too!) and can recommend babysitting services for younger children too!
Tigh-Na-Mara an oceanfront experience that is not to be missed!
This does look like quite a place to go to, especially in the summer.
How wonderful! And I bet this place is the most beautiful in the winter - maybe I'll get there someday!
WOOOOOW!!! It looks like the most incredible place in the world to go for a relaxing pampering time! Very nice pictures in the slide show. I like how they don't let you have the camera... but the pictures you show are fabulous. I would love to go there. I am more relaxed just by seeing the pictures. I'd never be able to afford to go there, but now I have a goal to save to get there some day ;). Thank you for sharing and I am glad you 3 ladies had a wonderful time!
This looks so neat and I'm fighting envy! Love the slideshow too!
wow, looks wonderful
Wow - y'all were so lucky! Looks like a Fabulous place, one that I would sooo love to visit! Great review too, BTW!
We enjoyed visiting the San Juans and Vancouver Islands when we lived in western Washington. I visited VI again with my sisters last year and had such a good time. It's beautiful there. Thank for the review of this resort, it sounds lovely!
all i can say is wow
I need a spa vacantion
Awesome picturesque scene and a day to remember for you girls.
It looks like you had a great time and Tigh-Na-Mara looks like a great place. I do love the look of the mineral pool.and the gazebo. Thank you for sharing this review.
Would love a retreat with my besties! Looks wonderful!
More friends and family need this spa
This resort looks amazing, definitely on my bucket list!
Oh I have gotta go here. This is the type of setting and relaxation I need. It is so beautiful.
I know where hubby and I are going for our anniversary next year!! 🙂
Amazing! I've never been to Vancouver but wow, I would love to visit this place! The mineral pool alone is enough to make me want to go!
Wow, this place looks awesome. I love that you can also ride a ferry.
What a beautiful place. Water looks so nice.
Wow, looks beautiful there. I dream of visiting Canada some day. : )
thisblooks great would love to be there relaxing
What a beautiful place, it looks like you had a great time and were treated really great! This is exactly what I need after the insane week I had!!
We are planning to visit Vancouver for the first time next year and will definitely keep this place in mind!
Looks like you all had a wonderful time! The scenery is beautiful. The mineral pool is stunning:)
Wow I would never want to leave the mineral spa. Thank you for your review.
This place is absolutely gorgeous! What a wonderful way to go relax and forget everything and just reflect and relax!
This getaway looks incredible. I could use a getaway after all this holiday stress! 🙂
If I am ever in the area, I am definitely visiting this place. I think the mineral pool alone would be worth the trip!
That looks like the perfect place to go and reconnect,relax, and reenergize! Perfect mix of nature and pampering!
I would love to go there, sounds so wonderful, I love a place by the water , Its good to take time for yourself once and awhile and just get away with friends 🙂 glad you enjoyed yourself and do hope you and your friends go again ..
wow,that looks like a little piece of heaven
I have to write on this again, it just looks like a amazing place! This would be a place I would just love to go to and for the first time have Spa time!
Wow! Such a beautiful place to get away to! Love the grotto, would love to go there myself someday.
Wow. Looks and sounds amazing! I so need a getaway! Thanks for sharing!
I was telling my husband that this looks so great that I
want to spend our next anniversary there.Your pictures
are beautiful.
Sounds like you had a great time, I could use a vacation!
What a great place for a little me time!
Sounds like a place my wife would love......
Thank you so much for sharing your getway. The pics are great. I would definitely go to this Spa. The Mineral Spring looks amazing.I've never been to a Spa. Every mom should experience this.
Carol L
How funny my "Not" husband and I were just talking about going on a vacation to Canada! I would love to go to Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort. This is a part of Canada that I have never been to. I have only been to Quebec, and I have always wanted to go over to Vancouver. I have to say you all looked like you where compleatly enjoying your time!
Ruth, Vancouver is a great please to visit as is Vancouver Island and they are very different from each other too, of course I'm biased having grown up in VAncouver. If you make it up this way email me I can give you lots of suggestions on places to visit 🙂
Looks wonderful. I bet it is expensive though so my chnces of going are nil. I will enjoy the pictures though and dream..
What a beautiful place! I hope to make it to the West Coast someday and this looks like a great place to get away with friends and relax and get pampered.
I really enjoyed looking at you album. You & Your Mom & High School Friend looked like you were enjoying yourselves.. That's nice to get away by yourself with your Mom & Friend at such a Beautiful inviting resort. It looked so relaxful. The food did look luscious!!. You are so lucky to have this Resort so close to where you live. Thankyou for sharing!!
Hey Cathy, thanks so much! My mom is not in those pictures, both ladies are good friends, one from high school and one I've know for 20 years 🙂
This looks like an amazing time and the place is just gorgeous. I so need a resort like this indeed. Thanks for sharing
The water is pretty. The accommodations look nice.
Okay, I am totally envious! I have never even been to a spa before. I think I could spend a full day in that mineral pool alone. Beautiful Photos, it looks like a lot of fun!
You lucky person! That Tigh-na-Mara Spa looks gorgeous. i loved that night photo. Your room with the wood walls looked great also. I bet you hated to leave! Thanks for the post.
I would love to go there looks lovely
Looks and sounds like you ladies had a fabulous time! Kinda jealous! ! Lol thanks for sharing!
OMG!! This place looks amazing! Ok, I really need to go. A spa is one thing, bit the GROTTO SPA is ridiculous! You are so lucky, I really hope you had a great time!
All looks so great,I think the Mineral Pool is calling my name.
Nothing like good times with friends and a beautiful place to share them in!
Beautiful! Looks as if the 3 of you had a wonderful time! That Mineral Pool, Cabins and the Ocean, all looked absolutely Beautiful! It looks as if it was very relaxing and calming! That's definitely what I could use about now! Thanks so much for sharing the beautiful pictures with all of us! I am just in awe of how wonderful everything looked! Thanks again, Michele 🙂
WoW!! This looks like a place I need to be right now. So relaxing and beautiful.
OMG that mineral pool looks incredible!