The Haven, thanks to its founders Jock McKeen and the late Bennett Wong, has presented workshops and trained facilitators that have helped so many in their own personal growth. You go there, even if you're not taking a program, and can be inspired by the conversations you'll hear, as well as by the gorgeous ocean beach and the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We went for a personal retreat after having not stayed there for over 25 years, and it was a wonderful homecoming. Our room was very comfortable, and the staff were ready to take care of any problems. The lunch was wonderful---served buffet style--Andouille sausage, pyrogies, lots of salads, the best Borscht I've had in years, and lots of choices for vegans or those choosing to go gluten free. I was ready to consider it perfect.....until we had some rather overcooked ham for dinner in a very hot dining room (no air conditioning). The morning's breakfast was again wonderful----quite the variety. Haven's granola is something to behold. I do wish that the person in the kitchen had been advised not to be playing fuzz guitar music on a tinny radio at 8 in the morning, however. But its an experience to have those wonderful beach walks---especially when the tide is out. A very enjoyable two day holiday. And the hot tub's wonderful. And they have an upright piano in one of the buildings that is accessible to anybody.…
Absolutely gorgeous, private location on the water. Beautiful view everywhere around property from woods to water & passing ferries. Older property but nicely maintained. Don’t forgot your hair dryer though, as they’re not supplied. Great retreat with lots of options for programs or just enjoying the lovely island.
What a cool place to spend couple of days! Nice little restaurant with excellent vegetarian fare, really friendly staff, good programs and a beautiful property. The view is worth a million! A real island treasure! I'll be back.
I am sure there are nicer rooms available but ours was pathetic. We were told that it was a waterfront building, and then quite disappointed to find that for $140 we were put in a back basement type of room. Dank, dark, and tiny. No fridge, no coffee maker, no bottled water ( Island tap water is stinky to drink), no table, not even a chair to sit in or throw your pants or shirt on. Returned to the room in the evening to find a spider in my bed and two more on the walls. No one asked how our stay was when checking out. I guess this place has a greater purpose for retreats and counseling so don't expect it to be like a typical hotel or motel room.
Stopped in here for a quick coffee late in the evening. Although I can't comment on the food the coffee and fresh baked goods were very good and the view of the ocean are probably the best on the island. Be mindful this resort is a place that is primarily a retreat resort for workshops and large groups. It caters to those guests but everyone is welcome. Be prepared for large groups if there is a retreat going on.
This was the cutest little cabin right on the water. It was tiny but very clean and had all the amenities we needed. Queen size bed, kitchenette, living room with TV, chairs outside to sit by the water. Quaint and comfortable.
Staff polite, food good, setting beautiful. Lomo lomi massage spiritual. Housing with "view of ocean" bit small view but large clean room. Was there for class.... Would have liked a shuttle to attractions on island....or kayaking or something. Pool and hot tub nice.
I was invited to a conference at "The Haven" and, so, thought of it as a resort rather than a B & B where one might stay for a few nights. There are massage rooms, beautiful grounds and several "self-improvement" course with a definite New Age tinge. The food was part of the conference and offered both meat and meatless options, served as a small cafeteria. Coffee and a couple of kinds of tea, along with bread and a toaster, were available always. That came in handy when I stayed one day longer than the conference: there was no breakfast! If they do offer B & B as the reviews seems to suggest, it is worth it, but you will need a car, unless you are a keen walker and don't mind the rain. Gabriola Island is very green and there is a reason for that. Although I have ticked "business" below, it is because it was a conference venue. It would be suitable for the other categories shown.…
I love coming here as it is so peaceful and calm great massages availae and wonderful wks Long the coast of Gabriola. Very accessible from Vancouver or Victoria not a fancy place but Down To earth and comforttable. Food good quLity but not Cordova. Blue!
We have stayed at The Haven on a number of occassions over the past three years. Our daughters are now 8 and 11 and we really like the setting which has mostly pedestrian areas, is right next to the ocean (lovely views with great sunsets) and offers buffet style meals. Rooms vary from large to small depending on price and there are some with a sea view at higher prices. There is a heated pool, hot tub overlooking the ocean and games room with pool table etc plus a bar. Food is home style vs gourmet, but just right for our family and mostly fairly health conscious with a well stocked salad bar at all meals. We love the sense as our kids get older that we can let them wander round the resort and not have to worry about their safety. In summary not a fancy resort, but very warm and friendly with a welcoming staff in our experience.…
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Listing