General Information
How do I get to the Centre?
We have posted directions on our Getting Here page.
Do I need a car?
No, but you are welcome to bring a car to the Centre.
The Centre is a 40-60 minute scenic walk to the island’s main town, Ganges.
There is an island bus service, approximately a 10-15 minute walk away. We also find carpooling with other participants common.
What time is check in and check out?
Check in is at 4:00pm
Check out is at 11:00am
Some programs may have altered check in or check out times. Be sure to check the retreat schedule for specific check in and out times. These times will also be noted on your registration confirmation.
Is the Centre kid-friendly?
The Salt Spring Centre of Yoga primarily offers adult programming and accommodations, with the exception of our Annual Community Yoga Retreat, which includes kid-friendly activities.
What are your cancellation policies?
Please read the Cancellation Policies page.
Accommodation & Facilities
What are the guest rooms like?
The rooms are cozy with comfortable beds and linens. Private rooms have 1 twin bed; shared rooms have 2-3 twin beds, depending on the room.
All rooms have shared washrooms on the same floor, except the one room with an ensuite.
Can I pay for shared accommodation even thought I am coming on my own?
Yes. Shared accommodation rates are available for those booking with a friend or family member as well as those coming on their own. Shared accommodations have 2-3 twin beds per room, depending on the room.
The exception is Personal Retreats. Shared accommodation rates for Personal Retreats are available to those booking with a friend/family member staying in the same room.
What are camping facilities like?
Camping is available From May to September. We offer unmarked tenting options in a quiet forest setting or in the sunny open meadows. All have access to hot outdoor showers and outhouses; however, there are no electrical hook‐ups. Campers are asked to bring their own tents, sleeping bags, pillows, linens and towels.
Please note: there are no fires, camp stoves or candles allowed on the land.
What is provided at the Centre?
Yoga mats and props are provided (though some prefer to bring their own yoga mat).
Indoor accommodation includes all linens and towels.
What should I bring?
Please bring personal toiletries, comfortable clothing, and an alarm clock. There are no outdoor shoes inside, so feel free to bring slippers. A water bottle and/or travel mug is also a good idea.
Yoga props, including mats are provided though some guests prefer to bring their own.
If you plan to walk the beautiful 1.7km trail on the property, consider the appropriate shoes for the weather. Wet conditions will make the trail muddy.
For programs with a sauna session, please bring a bathing suit.
Will I have Internet access?
Yes, wireless internet access is available within our main program building and in the Garden House.
We request that people do not use laptops or cellphones in the dining area.
Can I make phone calls and receive messages?
Cell phone service is unreliable on the Centre property but service can be accessed in Ganges and other parts of the island. Guests may wish to enable WIFI calling in advance of their arrival (subject to their phone provider and plan).
There is a courtesy phone in the dining room for short calls such as calling a taxi or emergency use.
Can I bring my pet?
Sorry, we are unable to accommodate pets.
Is there anything else I should know about?
Please read our Centre Guidelines.
Retreat Meals
What should I expect regarding the food served at the Centre?
The Centre has a reputation for high-quality, nutritious, well-balanced, and tasty cuisine.
Our diet is lacto-vegetarian, which does not include meat, fish or eggs.
While gluten-free and dairy-free/vegan options are available at all meals, those with serious food allergies should consult with us before registering.
Where possible, most of our produce comes directly from our organic farm.
There is a tea bar in the dining room with hot water, high quality tea and coffee substitutes.
We do not serve coffee. Generally you are welcome to bring your own press or instant coffee. Some programs have further guidelines on caffeine intake. Please check with the individual program details below.
I have a severe peanut /nut allergy. Can you still accommodate me?
While we are often able to accommodate peanut/nut-free and gluten-free diets, it would be next to impossible to control the kitchen environment enough to ensure that peanuts, nuts or gluten were not within your vicinity and that you were not exposed to peanuts, nuts or gluten in any of our meals. Please contact us directly if you have any concerns prior to your registration.
Can I bring my own food?
It is fine to bring personal snacks or treats that don’t need refrigeration, such as trail mix, cookies, bars etc., but please do not keep food in your tent. We request that guests respect our vegetarian facility.
We request people do not bring alcohol on Centre property.
Ayurveda & Yoga
I’m new to yoga and/or meditation. Is this retreat suitable for a beginner?
Yes. This retreat is suitable for beginners and those who are new to yoga and/or Ayurveda.
Is there anything specific I need to bring for this program?
If you wish to participate in the self-oilation, please bring a bathing suit or clothing that you feel comfortable wearing in public and allows you to apply the oil. If you want to join in the sauna session, a bathing suit is required.
Feel free to bring a notebook and pen for taking notes.
Yoga & Wellness Weekend Retreats
I’m new to yoga and/or meditation. Is this retreat suitable for a beginner?
Yes. This retreat is suitable for beginners and those who are new to yoga.