I’m just back from our third annual Sea, Sand & Soul fitness retreat to beautiful Prince Edward Island!
It was yet another magical experience with some of the lovliest and most interesting women ever.
Several of my Toronto Nordic walkers attended (some for the third time!) while many others arrived from Ottawa, home of my fitness colleague, co-organizer, and friend Nina LePage. Yet others came from from Quebec, New Brunswick, and smaller cities and towns in between.
Each morning began for some of us with a brisk dip in the ocean—what better way to start the day? Afterward, there was yoga and stretching indoors, on the sandy beach, or on the grass outside Cottage 6. The peaceful backdrop of the brilliantly blue sky and the rustling long grasses made it easy to find our flow and connect with nature.
On several days, we Nordic walked along the ocean, taking in the beauty of PEI’s coastline.
When rain came, our driver, George, whisked us away to some of the nearby charming villages. In North Rustico, a spontaneous shopping spree happened at The Wool Sweater Company, where eight beautiful rain slickers were purchased within minutes of arriving, along with with cozy wool socks and sweaters.
We bought plenty of sweets for friends, family, and of course, for ourselves, at Jane and Sue’s Chocolates in Stanley Bridge.
We enjoyed a memorable tour of Charlottetown with our regular guide, Josh, who shared interesting insights into the city’s history, architecutre and current events.
On one of our sunniest and windiest days, we cycled to Old Trachedie Harbour, about an hour away, for lunch. For some, it was an easy ride, but for others it was a great challenge.and memorable achievement.
On our final day, Ethain Arsenault, an interpretation officer from Parks Canada, walked us along the island’s famous red dunes (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). His wealth of knowledge captivated us as he described the devastation that 2022’s Hurrican Fiona caused to the dunes and national park.
We also learned about the plant life and the piping plother that make PEI such a unique natural treasure. It was an eye-opening and beautiful way to connect more deeply with the island.
Another highlight of our retreat was a talk by Robbie Shaw, the fourth-generation owner of Shaw’s Hotel. Robbie shared the rich history of the hotel, which has been in his family for over a century. His stories, including those about the challenges of stepping up to run the business at just age 22, were fascinating and inspiring. Hearing how he has continued the hotel's legacy while adapting to modern times made us all appreciate the unique charm of Shaw’s even more.
The trip woudn’t have been the same at any other venue. We felt so well taken care of by the incredible team at Shaw’s—Jeannie, Easton, Barb, Kennedy, and Robbie—who ensured that every detail was perfect throughout the week.
On our last evening we gathered for a traditional P.E.I. lobster supper (with options of beef tenderloin and a vegetarian dish, for those who didn’t eat lobster).
As we wrapped up our six days together, surrounded by nature, wonderful company, and the unique energy of P.E.I., I think we all felt a deep sense of gratitude.
From the ocean swims and Nina’s amazing yoga sessions, to exploring the island’s treasures and indulging in local flavours, this retreat was an incredible reminder for me of the importance of balance—between body, mind, and soul.
Nina and I are still shaking PEI sand out of our clothes and readjusting to city life. But we’ll shortly take a longer look at the group’s feedback and begin planning and organizing our fourth Sea, Sand & Soul.
We assume that next year there will be a little more of this, a little less of that, and of course some new and exciting additions to the schedule of activities.
We can't wait to see old and new faces at next year's retreat—until then, keep your hearts open and your bodies moving!
