frequently asked questions about

MIST THERMAL SANCTUARY

Mist is a commercially zoned facility that is monitored by Vancouver Coastal Health and follows their operation guidelines.  

If you have any other inquiries that are not covered in our most commonly asked questions, please reach out.

FAQs

    • Waffle robe

    • Towel

    • Footwear

    • Filtered drinking water

    • Mist’s bespoke herbal tea blend

    • Mist’s house shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and body lotion

    • Hair dryer

  • Each Mist Sauna Unit houses a private change room to start and end your session. Please be aware that your 90-minute session incorporates time to get ready. Chimes will signal 15 minutes before the conclusion of your session. Kindly plan your time accordingly.

  • Communal washrooms are located in a detached building a short outdoor walk from your private Mist Sauna Unit. Should you need to use the washroom during your session, simply follow the signs to the washrooms. Outdoor shoes are recommended. 

  • Kindly refrain from bringing your personal hair products to use during your visit at Mist. In our commitment to stewarding a forest environment, we provide high-quality, non-toxic shampoo, conditioner, and body wash suitable for the premises. Introducing external products may not be conducive with our facilities’ requirements.

  • Alcohol, cannabis, and drugs are strictly prohibited at Mist Thermal Sanctuary. The consumption of these substances during a session may compromise the positive effects of thermal hydrotherapy and may lead to undesirable effects like a sudden drop in blood pressure, resulting in lightheadedness or fainting.

    We understand that thermal therapy can work up an appetite, so feel free to bring a snack for yourself afterward. Additionally, bringing a beverage rich in electrolytes, like coconut water, is recommended. Mist provides filtered water and caffeine-free herbal tea on-site.

  • We recommend consulting with your medical professional to ensure that this will be a safe experience for you. Our dry saunas are approximately 76 degrees Celsius / 170 degrees Fahrenheit at maximum.

  • Vancouver Coastal Health requires individuals with colds, rashes, and open wounds to NOT use the premises. Bookings can be canceled with the link provided in your confirmation email and receive a full refund up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled booking. If you are experiencing symptoms, and your session is less than 48 hours away, please email us.

  • Yes, our venue accommodates wheelchairs and some other accessibility challenges. If you have concerns, please email us before you make your booking so we can make sure we make the proper arrangements.

  • Mist’s commitment to social responsibility, community, and sustainability is at the core of our mission. In the spirit of community, all spots from 6PM on Tuesday nights are offered at a reduced price of $59 per person, plus tax. Guests facing financial hardship are invited to enjoy the Mist Contrast Therapy Circuit on Tuesday evenings. Read about our community care pricing.

  • Yes, please click HERE. Thank you!

  • Please email us your resumé and cover letter. We look forward to receiving it!

  • Please send us an email.

    You’ll hear from us within 48 hours.

  • We have a strict cancellation policy. General bookings can be canceled or rescheduled with the link provided in your confirmation email and receive a full refund up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled booking. If less than 48 hours notice is given, your payment is non-refundable and non-transferable. 

    Our Full Venue Rental bookings are non-refundable. However, if you’re hosting a retreat with Nectar, we do offer the option to reschedule within the same retreat, space permitting, up to 14 days before your Nectar retreat begins. If no suitable rescheduling options are available within this timeframe, the rental fee will be forfeited.

  • Prices range from $199 (for 1-2 guests) and $69 for each additional guest (up-to a maximum of 4), plus GST to book a session.

  • Mist Thermal Sanctuary is located at 720 Gardner Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2. As we share the grounds with our sister venue, Nectar Retreat Centre, please follow the designated pathway in, and park in any available spot after the bridge. Follow the marked pathways to the check-in office.

  • Mist Thermal Sanctuary offers a holistic thermal spa experience with a range of immersive elements, including wet and dry sensations, hot and cold environments, and both indoor and covered outdoor spaces. Amenities include a dry sauna, cold plunge, open fire, and eucalyptus-misted shower. Contrast hydrotherapy, also known as the Nordic Cycle, addresses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, honouring the sacred and ritualistic significance of water.

  • Unlike traditional spas, Mist Thermal Sanctuary provides a quiet, self-guided experience with exclusive use of a private sauna unit for each guest or group of 4 max. We use filtered aquifer water and emphasize privacy and sustainability amidst a lush temperate forest on Bowen Island. Guests can also extend their stay with a 2-night booking at our sister venue, Nectar Retreat Centre, subject to availability.

  • Mist Contrast Therapy Circuits can be booked 7 days a week for 90-minute sessions, starting as early as 8AM and 8PM.

  • Mist Thermal Sanctuary releases new sauna and cold plunge sessions on the first of each month at 8AM.

  • The experience is designed for one to four people per unit. The intention of the Mist Contrast Therapy Circuit experience is to minimize distraction and allow you to disconnect from the outside world, deeply relax, reconnect with yourself and others.

  • Mist offers a serene contrast therapy venue, providing a quiet space for individuals and small groups to savour the peaceful environment or speak in lowered voices.

  • Guests must be 19 or older to visit Mist Thermal Sanctuary unaccompanied by a guardian. That said, we gladly receive guests aged 16 and above, provided they are accompanied by a legal guardian throughout the entire Mist Contrast Therapy Circuit experience. The legal guardian is required to sign a liability waiver on behalf of the underage guest.

  • Just yourself. Bathing suit is optional.