Have you been looking for the perfect girls’ trip destination? A place where you and your friends can leave it all behind (your work, worries, basically everything that adds weight to your every day)? How about escaping to the forest for an afternoon of tranquil fun in a place where time seems to pause? This summer, I did just that on a girls’ trip to La Belle Cabane, a private spa in the Saint John region, NB (in the Kingston Peninsula). Our fairytale experience began with a road trip and then an actual ferry ride—classic elements of many Saint John Region adventures.
This summer, I partnered with La Belle Cabane for this blog post. I was so excited for the opportunity to visit this fantastic spa again and share my experience with you!
Where is La Belle Cabane & What Is There?
We drove about 30 km from Saint John, NB to reach our relaxation destination. La Belle Cabane is located near the Gondola Point Ferry (the ferry is free to ride year-round and runs roughly every 5 mins). This 100% Indigenous-owned forest retreat features a spa, cabins, a gift shop (full of Indigenous-made products), and experiential activities (like Maamigin Moments and Elemental Wisdom). Owners Tasha Robitaille and Cory Belcourt have already started clearing the location of their sanctuary’s Phase 3, the Minogin Den, a future gathering spot with many possibilities.
Delicious Indigenous Culinary Delights
When we arrived our group of gals followed the pathway to reception into the woods and were warmly greeted with smiles and complimentary cedar tea. We continued on the wood-lined path to our private The Bigfoot Pod (Sa’be/Sasquatch). Once inside we sipped cedar tea as Tasha set up a lovely Indigenous culinary experience that included Three Sister Soup, Maple and Wild Blueberry Shortbread Cookies, and their new Strawberry Sweet Grass Refresher. She shared that the Three Sisters Soup represents companionship, the cookies are made with forged blueberries, and sweetgrass medicine represents kindness. She also explained the self-guided thermal journey; sweating, soaking, stones, and salt, we were about to enjoy.
Maadaadizi “starts a journey” Self-Guided Spa Experience
It was nice to experience each step at our own pace in the tranquil woods, with the occasional sprinkle of rain. Throughout the afternoon, each of us journeyed from the saunas, trying out the dry wood-fired one and the steam one, then soaked in the cold cedar plunge or hot tub (I liked the outdoor cold shower option too), rested on the heated stone bed or by the fire, and relaxed in the Zhiiwitaagan “salt” room, an infrared sauna with halotherapy. Time seemed to slow down as we savoured the delicious Three Sisters Soup while curious little birds visited with us in the trees. It was so nice to be surrounded by nature, with the trees, ferns, and moss-covered rocks.
Reconnecting & Relaxing with Friends
Throughout the afternoon, we floated between sharing stories, sitting in silence, and energetically catching up. We enjoyed the tasty cookies that paired so nicely with their calming signature cedar tea. The delightful Strawberry Sweet Grass Refresher kept us hydrated as we moved from sweating to soaking to relaxing. The Indigenous culinary experience was a perfect addition, with everything being delicious and offering full-body flavour profiles that were still nice and light.
After our private 3-hour spa experience in the serene forest ambiance, we all felt deeply relaxed and refreshed. It was a delightful time and an unforgettable girls’ trip. This was my second time at La Belle Cabane Spa, and I am looking forward to going again.
I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to visit this healing place and immerse myself in the Indigenous culture that was shared with us. This was beautifully highlighted through the welcoming cedar tea and the signage with Anishinaabemowin, English, and French.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes La Belle Cabane unique? La Belle Cabane offers a completely private, self-guided thermal spa experience in a tranquil forest setting, combined with Indigenous culinary delights and cultural elements. The blend of relaxation and cultural immersion makes it an incredible experience.
What does self-guided mean? You can go through sweat, soak, stones, and salt at your own pace.
Is it really private? Yes, the 2 pod experience is completely private. Each pod is exclusive to your group, ensuring a personal and uninterrupted experience. The Zhiiwitaagan “salt” room and 2 bathrooms with showers are in the main area.
Can I go by myself, or how many people can I bring in my pod? You can go by yourself or bring a group. Each pod costs the same amount. The Bigfoot Pod (Sa’be/Sasquatch) can accommodate a group of up to 6, and the Beaver Pod (Amik/Castor) can have a group of 1 to 4 people, making it perfect for solo relaxation or a small group outing. If you have a larger group, send them an email, they have bookings for groups of 10 and retreats for up to 20 people.
What should I bring? Bring comfortable swimwear, flip-flops or sandals, a robe if you would like to, a book, and, if you’re like me, remember to bring deodorant (an item I typically forget to pack). The spa provides towels and sandals, if needed. They also offer robes for rent.
How are the bugs? I didn’t see any mosquitoes or black flies both times I visited.
How long do I have to relax with my friends? Your booking gives you 3 hours to enjoy and relax with friends. If you are looking to enjoy a day at the spa, you can book a 7-hour session (for the price of two, 3-hour sessions, that’s a pretty great deal!)
Are there any specific times or seasons that are best for visiting? Really, anytime! The spa is open year-round. That’s right, you can relax in a hot tub in the winter. The hot tubs are covered, and there is some natural coverage with the forest. In the winter, the outdoor shower is not offered.
Find La Belle Cabane in person at 1013 Route 845, Kingston, NB OR online on their website, labellecabane.com.
Learn more about the lovely individuals who have created this tranquil space, owners Tasha Robitaille and Cory Belcourt, here.
Tip: Sign up for their newsletter to learn about last minute openings and other exciting announcements as they expand and grow.
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