Great travel experiences can be transformative, offering fresh perspectives and meaningful connections to places and people. Many Indigenous-owned retreats in Canada focus on fostering these connections to the land and its people, benefiting both visitors and Indigenous communities.
Jason Johnston, Ontario director of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, emphasizes the importance of experiencing Indigenous history authentically. He stresses the significance of learning about the culture from those who live it, rather than through misinterpreted offerings.
Ashley Smith, owner-operator of Turtle Village in Manitoba, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of Indigenous storytelling and representation. Keith Henry, president of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, emphasizes the need for honest and authentic storytelling to showcase Canada’s heritage accurately.
Indigenous-owned retreats offer unique experiences that vary by location, but they all share a common thread of warm hospitality. Keith Henry emphasizes the long-standing tradition of welcoming visitors to Turtle Island, emphasizing the historical business relationships between nations.
Each property offers distinct experiences rooted in Indigenous culture. Turtle Village, located in Manitoba’s Riding Mountain National Park, provides luxury camping in eco-friendly tiny homes. Owner Ashley Smith, a member of Gambler First Nation, offers various activities like beading workshops and storytelling experiences.
Métis Crossing in Alberta showcases Métis culture through immersive experiences like canoe trips and traditional workshops. The lodge’s CEO, Juanita Marois, highlights the unique connection that Métis people have with the land and their efforts to engage visitors in authentic cultural experiences.
Spirit Bear Lodge in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest offers wildlife encounters and cultural experiences led by the Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation. Assistant manager Roxanne Robinson emphasizes the spiritual significance of encounters with the rare spirit bear and the importance of sharing indigenous stories and traditions.
Red Bank Lodge in New Brunswick offers a retreat owned by the Metepenagiag Mi’kmaq Nation, providing guests with opportunities to explore Indigenous culture through activities like traditional bread-making and guided nature walks.
Cape Croker Park in Ontario offers Anishinaabe cultural experiences and interpretive hikes to educate visitors about traditional tools and ceremonies. The park’s interpretive program coordinator, Jason Johnston, emphasizes the importance of engaging visitors in meaningful conversations about Indigenous history and culture.
Frontier Lodge in the Northwest Territories, owned by the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation, provides tours of Thaidene Nëné and cultural experiences to reconnect with the local community and heritage. The lodge’s general manager, Corey Myers, highlights the efforts to integrate cultural themes and stories into the guest experience.
Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations in Quebec offers a museum-boutique-hotel experience owned by the Huron-Wendat Nation. The hotel’s marketing coordinator, Marion Garnier, emphasizes the immersive cultural activities and workshops that allow guests to appreciate the rich heritage of the Huron-Wendat people.
Dakota Dunes Resort in Saskatchewan, owned by the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, combines modern resort amenities with Dakota cultural experiences. CEO Darrell Balkwill emphasizes the resort’s role in providing economic benefits to the local community and offering guests a deeper connection to the land and its people.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort in British Columbia’s Desolation Sound offers eco-friendly accommodations and cultural tours owned by the Klahoose First Nation. Tourism manager Chris Tait highlights the personalized service and spiritual connections guests can experience during their stay.
