How to Experience Squamish on a Wellness Getaway
Dubbed the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” this small mountain town in BC sits where the mountains meet the ocean, surrounded by towering granite cliffs, dense rainforest and glacial rivers. Despite its reputation as a destination for hardcore adventures like rock climbing, challenging hikes and mountain biking, Squamish also has a gentler side, one that welcomes wellness seekers looking for a grounded, restorative escape. Here’s how to experience a slow adventure in Squamish.
Forest Bathing with CaraCopia
For an easy, accessible way to experience Squamish’s lush rainforest, consider forest bathing, a guided, sensory-rich walk where the goal isn’t distance or elevation gain, but simply being present in nature.
Led by local guide Cara, these sessions invite you to pause, breathe and take in your surroundings with all your senses. Notice the sunlight streaming through the trees, the sound of birds calling overhead or the feeling of rough bark beneath your fingertips. Moving through the forest slowly and intentionally is something we often skip over during fast-paced hikes or adrenaline-heavy climbs.
Join a group session or book a custom experience that ranges from one hour to multi-day immersions throughout the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
Breathwork Session at BreathWorks Studio
For a gentle yet powerful way to reset, head to BreathWorks Studio, a space that blends heart science, energy work, breathwork techniques, yin yoga and meditation to help you slow down and reconnect. A variety of classes, from sound healing and meditation to nervous system regulation, run Monday through Saturday.
One of their standout experiences is the breathwork session. Get comfy on a mat, slip on a blackout eye mask and wear headphones as music plays directly into your ears. Be guided through intentional breathing patterns designed to shift your physical, emotional and mental state. While some feel a rush of energy or emotion, others walk away feeling grounded, clear or even euphoric.
Plunge Wellness
For an experience that’s both energizing and grounding, check out Plunge Wellness, Squamish’s first indoor cold plunge and sauna studio. Thoughtfully designed to feel calm and welcoming, this space offers a contrast therapy experience that alternates between hot and cold to support your body and mind. Move between a traditional sauna, which relaxes your muscles, and one of four cold plunge pools chilled to a brisk 6 C, resting in the lounge area before repeating the cycle. This combo boosts circulation, supports your nervous system and helps build both physical and mental resilience. Plus, it’s known to improve sleep and reduce stress over time.
Where to Eat
Tall Tree Bakery
Known for their artisan breads and pastries baked fresh each morning, Tall Tree Bakery was established by husband-and-wife duo Sean and Erin. A local favourite, it’s always buzzing with regulars popping in for baguette sandwiches and paninis at lunch. It’s also a go-to for breakfast. Reach for the cinnamon buns and the pain au chocolat for a sweet start, or a savoury scone, ham and gruyere croissant if you’re leaning salty.
Peak Provisions
Equal parts cozy lunch spot and specialty market, Peak Provisions is a low-key favourite in downtown Squamish. Its curated shelves are stocked with everything from artisan hot sauces to wines, chocolate bars and small-batch chips, showcasing local producers and makers. The cheese and deli counter features a premium selection of specialty cheeses and cured meats.
The menu thoughtfully features hearty sandwiches, fresh salads and a rotating lineup of pastries and baked goods. Whether you’re gearing up for a mountain adventure or winding down after one, it’s a solid stop to refuel.
Alice & Brohm
With two locations in Squamish, one in the Garibaldi Highlands and another downtown, Alice & Brohm serve up refreshing made-to-order real fruit ice cream. Choose from classic berry flavours of strawberry, raspberry, blackberry or blueberry, blended with creamy BC dairy or a coconut-based alternative for a plant-based option. You’ll also find popsicles, cold brew affogatos and pints to-go.
Where to Stay
Conveniently situated along the Sea-to-Sky Highway and about a 10-minute drive from downtown Squamish, Executive Suites Hotel & Resort is ideal for travellers who want a little extra space. The all-suite property has 111 studio, one- and two-bedroom options, all with full kitchens, while the one- and two-bedroom suites also come with private balconies, a fireplace and in-suite washer and dryers. There’s a laid-back restaurant on-site and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub for a soothing soak.
How to Get There
Squamish is located along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, roughly halfway between Vancouver and Whistler, located 40 kilometres north of Vancouver.
