Whether you’re a yogi, hiker or runner, we’ve pulled together some of Canada’s best fitness travel hot spots where you can find your favourite activities.
For yoga
The Salt Spring Centre of Yoga lies across 70 acres of meadows, forest and organic gardens on Salt Spring Island, one of the most beautiful gulf islands off the coast of British Columbia.
Northern Edge in Algonquin Park, Ontario, is a solar-powered nature retreat that runs all the way down to Kawawaymog Lake. Here, yoga is combined with kayaking during the summer and dog sledding during the winter months.
At Shining Bay Yoga Retreat, near Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, Kripalu yoga is the focus. This retreat operates only in the summer months (June to September). There are a number of retreats, including one just for girls between the ages of 9 and 16.
For hiking
The Peace River/Alaska Highway part of Northern British Columbia is nestled between the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and the Alberta Plains. Hiking here is a four-season pursuit and the wildlife rivals any city zoo. Grizzly and Black bears, moose, caribou, deer and bald eagles all call it home.
The Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail runs from Niagara-on-the-Lake to the border of Quebec. It takes in almost 200 parks and natural areas and there are eight family-friendly trips that make for a great summer challenge.
Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland. There are more than 100 km of trails in this beautiful UNESCO-listed park, ranging from easy, 30-minute strolls to map-and-compass three-day hikes. The Lookout Trail is great for a family as it’s just 5 km return. The views of the Tablelands, Bonne Bay and Gros Morne mountain belong on your bucket list.
For running
In Vancouver, British Columbia, take on the 11 km Seawall in Stanley Park. Past Brockton Point, the Lumberman’s Arch and Siwash Rock, it’s one of the most beautiful runs in the city.
You don’t have to wait until March rolls around each year for a run around the bay in Hamilton, Ontario, although this is when the oldest race in North America is run. It was first run in 1894, three years before the Boston Marathon.
The classic 10 km run in Halifax, Nova Scotia, will take you through the South End and into Point Pleasant with its inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean. Cable Hill is a steep, but short, climb, and on the home stretch, you’re flanked by the Public Gardens on one side and the mighty Citadel on the other.
(Image: kahtava)
