THE PLAIDPATH
TRAILS AND TREKS CORP.
​The VAN to VIC Trek
Step into Transformation
Why Choose The VAN to VIC Trek For Your Personal Growth?
Every stop on this 12-day journey is purposefully chosen to enhance your growth and deepen your connection to yourself and the world around you. Whether you’re looking to heal, reflect, or simply reconnect with the present moment, this trek is a comprehensive experience that allows you to do so in a safe and nurturing environment.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Vancouver - Grounding in Nature and Culture
Start your journey with a deep connection to the land at Stanley Park with Talaysay Tours. Learn the ancient stories of the land from an Indigenous perspective, grounding yourself in a sense of place and history. Stay at Skwachay Lodge—an artist residence that offers both comfort and a sense of community. Reflect, learn, and let your journey unfold.
Day 2: Nanaimo - Paddling into Clarity
​Engage in kayaking with Island Romer Adventures, where the physical challenge of paddling offers you space for personal reflection. Nature’s rhythm will help you discover new clarity, allowing you to release any mental clutter. This hands-on experience empowers you to move forward with a fresh perspective.
Day 3: Cassidy - A Spiritual Awakening at Christie Falls
Dive deeper into self-awareness with the Takigyo Purification Ceremony at Christie Falls, allowing the natural power of water to purify and center your mind, body, and spirit. This cleansing ceremony helps you leave behind old thoughts or patterns, allowing you to make room for new growth.
Day 4: Ladysmith - Sunset Meditation and Stretching
As the day ends, connect with the peaceful energy of Transfer Beach with a guided sunset meditation and stretching. The setting sun is the perfect metaphor for letting go of the old and embracing the new. This peaceful moment sets the tone for the continued evolution of your journey.
Day 5: Chemainus - Grounding through Lavender
Immersing yourself in nature is key to emotional healing, and the Lavender Workshop at By the Bay will give you that grounding experience. Lavender has long been used for its calming properties, and through grounding practices, you’ll embrace peace and clarity in the natural beauty of this place.
Day 6: Duncan - Guided Yoga for Renewal
Set against the tranquil backdrop of Quamichan Lake’s calming waters and lush surroundings, this session offers the perfect opportunity to renew your mind, body, and spirit. Led by an experienced instructor, the class will guide you through gentle movements and mindful breathing, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and nature.
Day 7: Lake Cowichan - Mindfulness through Breathing
In this safe and supportive space, you'll be guided through powerful breathwork techniques to release stress, tension, and emotional blockages. Following the breathwork, we’ll come together in a circle for a shared healing experience, allowing the collective energy to foster emotional balance and inner peace.
Day 8: Cowichan Bay - Eucalyptus Detoxification
Designed to refresh and revitalize your body and mind. As you step into the warm, soothing steam room, the invigorating scent of eucalyptus fills the air, gently clearing your sinuses and calming your senses. The steam opens your pores, allowing for deep cleansing and detoxification, while the aromatic essence of eucalyptus promotes relaxation, relieves tension, and supports respiratory health.
Day 9: Shawnigan Lake - Whale Watching and Ecovillage Exploration
Whale watching is a powerful metaphor for life’s big questions—witnessing the vastness of the ocean and the majestic creatures within it can help you reflect on your own journey. Pair this with a tour of O.U.R Ecovillage, where you’ll gain new insights on sustainable living and community, sparking fresh ideas for your own life path.
Day 10: Malahat - Rejuvenating Foot Revival
Sometimes the path to clarity begins with nurturing the body. The Leg and Foot Revival Treatment at Villa Eyrie Spa will provide you with a deeply relaxing and restorative experience, grounding you physically and emotionally. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready for what’s next.
Day 11: Langford - Forest Bathing for Deep Healing
Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) at Goldstream Provincial Park is a meditative practice that connects you to the earth and your own body. The forest’s quiet energy will enhance your self-awareness and emotional healing, allowing you to leave feeling deeply restored.
Day 12: Victoria - Sacred Circle at Beacon Hill Park
Closing your trek with a Sacred Circle in Beacon Hill Park will provide you with a final opportunity for personal reflection and connection. Sharing your experiences with others in this sacred space brings a sense of completion and transformation.
Day 13: Home - Celebrating Your Transformation
As you head home, enjoy a high tea at Pendray Inn to honor your journey. Reflect on your growth, your experiences, and the profound shifts you’ve experienced along the way. This final moment gives you the space to process and appreciate everything you’ve learned.
Your Journey to Transformation Starts Here
Every step of the VAN to VIC Trek is designed to connect you more deeply with nature. As you nurture your body, mind, and spirit you'll be provided with the tools to leave behind what no longer serves you. From personal reflection to cultural immersion, each stop offers a unique way to tap into your inner power, and return home with a renewed sense of purpose.
