Basecamp in the Kootenays
We're your basecamp located in the heart of the West Kootenays. Explore heritage towns, hike or ski alpine peaks, bike rail trails, swim in fresh water lakes and rivers, attend a concert, book a tour, or visit a gallery. The possibilities are endless.
Favourite places to Swim
Shoreacres
The Pier in Nelson
The Pier in Nelson
Float the river, try the rope swing or play on the soft, sandy beach. It's perfect for sandcastles, sun tanning, and general beach lounging too.
11 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
The Pier in Nelson
The Pier in Nelson
The Pier in Nelson
Located on the Nelson waterfront, enjoy a sand-free swimming experience right on the river.
14 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Troupe Beach
The Pier in Nelson
Troupe Beach
Access by boat, foot, or bicycle only.
The destination is a white sandy at Five Mile Point – a great picnic spot with shallow water, sandbars, and solitude.
19 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Favourite places to EAT
The Block
Beer Garden at the Hume
The Block
For the best sandwich you have ever eaten, visit The Block. Celebrating seasonal and regional ingredients from local farmers.
14 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Sprout
Beer Garden at the Hume
The Block
The vegan offerings here are so good even meat eaters will love it. Our fav is the Crispy Cauliflower Wrap with maple sriracha sauce. So good!
14 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Beer Garden at the Hume
Beer Garden at the Hume
Beer Garden at the Hume
Enjoy cold beers, good food and music on this lively seasonal patio. We love the Baja Fish Tacos here.
14 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Favourite OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Fletcher Falls
Smallwood Lookout
Smallwood Lookout
Escape the heat at this beautiful waterfall. There is a day use area with beach on the main lake and picnic tables.
74 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Smallwood Lookout
Smallwood Lookout
Smallwood Lookout
Hike the Smallwood Trail network to the stunning lookout. 10 kms round trip from our retreat.
3 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Slocan Rail Trail
Smallwood Lookout
Slocan Rail Trail
Bike from the junction to Slocan City along the beautiful Slocan River. The trail is approximately 50 kms long.
9 kms from Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Other things to see and do
The Trading Post
Nelson Farmers Market
Nelson Farmers Market
Peruse our on-site gift shop chalked full of eco-friendly, Canadian made arts and crafts.
Nelson Farmers Market
Nelson Farmers Market
Nelson Farmers Market
Visit the Nelson Farmers Market Wednesdays on Baker Street or Saturdays at Cottonwood Falls.
Electric Larry Land
Nelson Farmers Market
Electric Larry Land
Rent an electric bike and explore the West Kootenays on two wheels.