Wild Calm: Forest Bathing & Restoration Retreat
September 7 -10, 2026
September 7 - 10, 2026
Imagine a holiday that had side effects of living longer, increased energy, pain reduction, reduced stress and anxiety, improved heart health, lower blood pressure, more connectedness with others and with the earth, and also included chocolate croissants delivered to your cabin door every morning
On your four-day Wild Calm: Forest Bathing and Restoration Retreat at the Lodge at Pine Cove, you will be invited to slow down and experience the forest, the granite, the trees, the water, the stars, through all your senses.
Rooted in the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, Forest Bathing is neither a hike nor a fitness walk—it’s a gentle, mindful way to restore your connection with the natural world. Walks are slow and short. This practice responds to the disconnection from nature in Japan in the early 1980’s, as people spent more time in cities and in front of screens, and is now recognized as one of the fastest growing wellness trends globally, with robust research supporting the many health benefits.
We all know we feel better after time in nature. Birdsong, the scent of pine trees, the sparkle of sunlight and mystery of shadow, the softness of moss offer us comfort, calmness, restoration. The simple action of inhaling cedar’s woody scent can quiet the mind, reduce tension, and promote a sense of relaxation. During your stay, you will be offered guided walks at different times to get to know the hidden oases of Pine Cove, with lots of free time to enjoy your choice of other wonderful activities as well.
So accept this invitation to step away from the noise of daily life and reconnect with nature in this guided Forest Bathing Retreat. Luxuriate in the healing energy of the Lodge at Pine Cove. Whether you’re seeking calm, clarity, or a deeper sense of well-being, this retreat offers time and space to rest, reflect and renew.
Your Guide
Beth Foster (She/Her)
ANFT Nature and Forest Therapy Guide Trail Certification Consultant
Having wandered in the woods, waterways and tundra all her life, Beth has learned that, sometimes, you can go further by sitting quietly in one place and listening, smelling, touching, tasting and watching the wonder unfold. As a Nature and Forest Therapy Guide and Trail Certification Consultant since 2018, she delights in guiding others to an awareness, understanding and deeper appreciation of the healing power of nature as a tool for peace and prosperity, while honouring the connection between humans and the earth. Beth lives in Barrie Ontario Canada and can be found in the woods or at forestbathingwithbeth.com.
2026 All-Inclusive Package Options
The forest is the therapist; the guide opens the doors.
Wild Calm Forest Bathing Fees
1) Deluxe Private Cottage
$1853 + gratuities (15%) + HST (13%)
Enjoy one of our deluxe cottages all to yourself! Cottage with full kitchen & bathroom Tuition + accommodations for three nights + all meals.
2) Private Bedroom & Shared bathroom
$1481 + gratuities (15%) + HST (13%)
All cottages include:
Cancelation policy
Full payment is required upon registration. If an applicant is unable to attend the retreat due to illness or other health problems, he or she will receive a refund for the amount paid, minus a $245 application fee, ONLY if we can fill their spot at the retreat. We will endeavour to fill a spot left vacant due to illness or other health problems, but we are not able to guarantee it. You may consider purchasing trip insurance with a service such as: Trip insurance store.
Wild Calm 2025 Testimonials:
1-I loved all of it: the location, the beautiful trees and water, the hiking paths. Beth’s facilitation is excellent—-loved the invitations, no pressure felt, also loved the camaraderie and the connections with people. And I loved the croissants!
2—I love immersing myself in nature, especially this part of Ontario. The venue is perfect—beautifully screened in porch and view, very comfortable beds, amazing delicious food. I noticed how creative I am in my art journal. Beth’s excellent facilitation to deepen the experience was friendly, welcoming, funny, knowledgable…In particular, I loved the extra details such as sumac tea and the birchbark scrolls. Thank you—-much gratitude.
Useful information
Fishing
The French River, was a larder for millennia, for the First Nations peoples that fished its rich waters. Today, sport fishing is one of the French River’s main activities and attracts fishers for; muskellunge, northern pike, walleye (or pickerel as it is known in Canada), large and small mouth bass and other varieties of fresh water fish. Ask us about hiring a guide, bring your own boat or rent one from us.
Bird Watching
French River is home to many species of birds including; various warbler migrations, sandhill cranes, many species of duck, bald eagles, ospreys, merlins, coopers hawk, merlins, pileated woodpeckers, blue herons and many other varieties. Birding on the French River is a joy.
Hiking
Hike at Lodge at Pine Cove, on our well marked trails. From a 20 minute stroll to a 3 hour hike across the rugged Canadian Shield, you will find plenty of trails to interest you. Beaver ponds, large channels, cranberry bog, huge pine trees and plenty of flora and fauna. Hike Pine Cove and discover the French River.
Kayaking
The French River is an incredible kayaking destination. Huge expanses of flat water that you can paddle for hours, whilst exploring wild shorelines, islands, bays and channels. Bring your own kayak or we can outfit you with one. Discover the French River and it will keep you coming back for more.
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