Pacific Mist Spa — Hotel in Area A (Baynes Sound)

The hydropath was wonderful and so relaxing. I had heard good things about it and was eager to give it a try, without really knowing what to expect. I would do it again.

However, my experience with booking the hydropath was so awful it almost caused more stress than it took away once I was there. I was unsuccessful at getting through via phone call several times, being put on hold for long periods, and having my call end abruptly when it reached a certain time. I got mixed messages via email, and since they don't book anything that way, I ended up missing out on the offers because they were already booked by the time I managed to get through by phone.

I spoke to several different people, who did not have any context for my previous attempts at booking treatments, and for some reason were not able to understand me on the phone. I had to repeat spelling my name at least three times. And I thought I had finally managed to figure out a schedule that would work for me and my partner, until it turned out the person was booking me for the wrong date (we were only going to be in Courtenay for 5 days). I was so disheartened I almost gave up on trying to book something there. But I ended up booking just the hydropath (without massage). And when I got there, the person at the front desk asked to verify my phone number because what they had on file was completely wrong. I was bewildered. How could this be after so many checking and double-checking? I even provided my phone number in one of my emails. And they had my correct email, so I don't understand why they didn't send me an email to verify my phone number after they tried to call me and failed.

Extremely frustrating experience in the realm of...

I drove up from Victoria for The Healing Caves experience and it did not disappoint! Such an innovative way to approach a sauna circuit. The multimedia aspect was so well done and it was great to have the guides come and move you along at the intervals to explore the six caves over the 75 minute experience. There was a refreshing electrolytes station after the fourth cave and again either sparkling water or prosecco at the end of the circuit. I’m so surprised larger centres are not jumping on this!

I also had a very nice relaxation massage afterwards where I dozed off for a bit. I usually get RMT massages so was a bit skeptical I would enjoy this, but I did!

The spa has lots of great retail options including bathing suits and clothing (lululemon and other premier active wear brands).

The spa layout is generally very good, three storeys with The Healing Caves in the basement, reception, retail and change rooms on the main floor and treatment rooms above on the second level. Change rooms are spacious but quickly filled up on a busy summer Saturday. The pool is also very popular with deck chairs filling up quickly. My only “even better if” the waiting lounge had more comfortable seats. The banquette seating is very hard and the seat depth is quite shallow and backs very high so not something you sink into.

Spa staff were friendly and professional (even with some rude and late arriving guests who were very dismissive) and kept the facilities spotless.

Highly...

I recently attended a friend's birthday party at the Pacific Mist Spa and Hydropath, and it was an exceptional experience! This was my first time indulging in such luxurious spa treatments, and it exceeded all expectations.

The facilities are top-notch, with a beautiful swimming pool, inviting hot tub, rejuvenating steam room, and relaxing sauna. The highlight was the cave-like water spa area downstairs, which added a unique touch to the experience. It truly felt like we were sitting in a tranquil cave.

The friendly staff and knowledgeable guide ensured that we made the most of our visit, although I would have loved it if the experience could have been a bit longer. After the water treatments, the relaxation room was the perfect place to unwind.

The spa's garden area with a cozy fire pit was the ideal spot to conclude our visit. I had no idea this hidden treasure existed before attending this event. It's a true gem that I highly recommend to anyone seeking a serene and rejuvenating spa experience.

Thank you, Pacific Mist Spa and Hydropath, for making this birthday celebration unforgettable. I can't wait to return for...