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
I escaped to the Tigh-Na-Mara with two of my closest friends Tammie and Stacey who are picture above for a mom’s getaway that was true bliss.
The Tigh-Na-Mara is an all-season ocean front 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. They are a few minutes from the center of the town of Parksville, a short drive to Coombs where you can stop to see the famous Goats on a roof in Coombs (seriously there can be goats on the rooftops of the Coombs market, the roofs have grass growing on them). 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. This holiday season Tigh-na-Mara has some fabulous activities for the whole family. You can take a look at all they offer HERE for the holiday activities. They do something for each season, I think that’s fabulous!
View from oceanfront suite
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.
(L to R Tammie, MIchelle (Powered by Mom) and Stacey)
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.
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.
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.
Rathtrevor Beach which the Tigh-Na-Mara’s ocean front suites overlook, it’s just beautiful.
The Gazebo where many people get married and book their reception at the Tigh-Na-Mara and why not the ocean view is stunning from the gazebo.
I could literally take thousands of photos at the beach, I didn’t come that close but I took a lot of them.
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.
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 bath robes 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. 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.
Tammie and Stacey in front of the Grotto Spa, almost time to head in!
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 was 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.
Here were are the three of us and our amazing hostess Ashlee. I’m so relaxed that I’m tired and you can tell.
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 flavors 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’s 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:
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 to 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!
Tammie & Michelle
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.
Stacey and Michelle
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 ocean front experience that is not to be missed!
Jerry Marquardt says
This does look like quite a place to go to, especially in the summer.
md kennedy says
How wonderful! And I bet this place is the most beautiful in the winter – maybe I’ll get there someday!
Tina Bornheimer says
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!
Mare W says
This looks so neat and I’m fighting envy! Love the slideshow too!
jessica miranda says
wow, looks wonderful
1955nurse says
Wow – y’all were so lucky! Looks like a Fabulous place, one that I would sooo love to visit! Great review too, BTW!
Cindy Brooks says
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!
lana simanovicki says
all i can say is wow
terry myers says
I need a spa vacantion
Rosalind Gutierrez says
Awesome picturesque scene and a day to remember for you girls.
M.Clark says
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.
polly says
Would love a retreat with my besties! Looks wonderful!
terry myers says
More friends and family need this spa
Kimberly Flickinger says
This resort looks amazing, definitely on my bucket list!
Debra Holloway says
Oh I have gotta go here. This is the type of setting and relaxation I need. It is so beautiful.
Barrie says
I know where hubby and I are going for our anniversary next year!! 🙂
Jennifer Hiles says
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!
angelia medlin says
Wow, this place looks awesome. I love that you can also ride a ferry.
Saundra M says
What a beautiful place. Water looks so nice.
Cindy S. says
Wow, looks beautiful there. I dream of visiting Canada some day. : )
Michelle w says
thisblooks great would love to be there relaxing
Nena Sinclair says
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!!
Penni says
We are planning to visit Vancouver for the first time next year and will definitely keep this place in mind!
Tenley Erickson says
Looks like you all had a wonderful time! The scenery is beautiful. The mineral pool is stunning:)
Shannon says
Wow I would never want to leave the mineral spa. Thank you for your review.
Mary Dailey says
This place is absolutely gorgeous! What a wonderful way to go relax and forget everything and just reflect and relax!
Jennifer Johncock says
This getaway looks incredible. I could use a getaway after all this holiday stress! 🙂
Amy Orvin says
If I am ever in the area, I am definitely visiting this place. I think the mineral pool alone would be worth the trip!
Kathy Kuykendall says
That looks like the perfect place to go and reconnect,relax, and reenergize! Perfect mix of nature and pampering!
Dorothy Boucher says
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 ..
vickie couturier says
wow,that looks like a little piece of heaven
Ruth Griffeth says
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!
Heather Bridson says
Wow! Such a beautiful place to get away to! Love the grotto, would love to go there myself someday.
Lisa Coomer Queen says
Wow. Looks and sounds amazing! I so need a getaway! Thanks for sharing!
SallyT says
I was telling my husband that this looks so great that I
want to spend our next anniversary there.Your pictures
are beautiful.
Jen P. says
Sounds like you had a great time, I could use a vacation!
Melissa Lawler says
What a great place for a little me time!
John House says
Sounds like a place my wife would love……
Carol L says
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
Ruth Griffeth says
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!
Powered by Mom says
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 🙂
ellen beck says
Looks wonderful. I bet it is expensive though so my chnces of going are nil. I will enjoy the pictures though and dream..
Jill Jacoby says
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.
Cathy Jarolin says
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!!
Powered by Mom says
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 🙂
Rebecca Swenor says
This looks like an amazing time and the place is just gorgeous. I so need a resort like this indeed. Thanks for sharing
David Fultner says
The water is pretty. The accommodations look nice.
lisa says
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!
Jennifer Heintz says
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.
rochelle haynes says
I would love to go there looks lovely
kristin smith says
Looks and sounds like you ladies had a fabulous time! Kinda jealous! ! Lol thanks for sharing!
Kricket Fountain says
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!
SallyT says
All looks so great,I think the Mineral Pool is calling my name.
Joy says
Nothing like good times with friends and a beautiful place to share them in!
Michele Ash says
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 🙂
Kim Champion Barnes says
WoW!! This looks like a place I need to be right now. So relaxing and beautiful.
zeeCatsicles says
OMG that mineral pool looks incredible!