Ecology Retreat Centre

I was at this 'retreat' center this weekend. The word rustic is good, but I think the word basic is better. I am not sure why it is called an 'ecology' center as there were no special eco-spaces or conservation programs on the property. Our accommodations were in small cabin like rooms (each with bunk beds and a small double bed, I think some had a few twins in one room), shared bathrooms/showers, and no tv/wifi/phone. We stayed in the lodge which was very clean, and ate their onsite cooked meals, which were also very good especially if you are vegetarian and really like cauliflower and mushrooms. Here are a couple of things that I thought would be different: The 'ponds' are actually a tiny puddle by the dining hall and a marsh a little away from the dining hall. The 'garden' is another small and somewhat disappointing space of flowers, and I think, tomatoes. The 'river' is a small stream which is pretty but there is no way to really sit by it or step into it... at least there wasnt when we were there. Also, despite the fact that they have a great deal of clear land available, the fire pit is in the forested area behind the lodge, which is literally swamped in mosquitoes and, for many of us on this retreat, enjoying the bonfire was not possible. The most disturbing aspect, is that approx 30ft away from the larger pond/marsh is a mountain of garbage hidden in the bush. Beer cans, plastic trash, and even an old bbq are thrown back there which ruined the whole 'eco' friendly vibe I originally got from the place. Overall it reminded me of a children's summer camp center. Unfortunately, this is not somewhere where I would go again for a 'retreat'.

The Ecology Retreat Centre is such an amazing place. I have seen it in many forms and many retreats over the year, and it has changed our lives in so many positive ways. They're very accommodating to the needs of groups and individuals within the group, and they're all really friendly. Stephan and the new management have obviously been working very hard to improve and upscale the buildings and it is a huge step up from what it was ten years ago when I first set foot on the property. The surroundings are part of the most blessed forest I've ever laid eyes on, and you can feel how sacred the land space is. I highly recommend supporting this small, family run, home-like business and helping to support and nurture a community that is pure and enriching.

Visited the Retreat Centre a few weeks ago for a Kung Fu retreat. Food: Absolutely amazing would not do it justice. The meals were vegetarian but the kitchen staff accommodated people with Dairy and Gluten intolerances. An amazing variety of food as well! Lodging: The lodges we stayed in were good and served our purposes. The rooms fit three people with one bed being a double. They were comfortable and the rooms heated up quickly at night. They also had a spacious common room. Grounds: The Retreat Centre has a large amount of land that we used for our hikes and was absolutely beautiful. There is a stream that runs down from the woods so walking to and from the dining hall you always heard the stream. I cannot say enough good things about this place as the experience was great. Hope to find myself back again at some point.

Was here for a yoga retreat. An awesome location. The food was tailor made and delicious. I stayed in the bunkhouse in a room by myself and was very comfortable. A great lower bunk, a twin bed. Clean and well supplied. The staff was friendly.

Absolutely amazing retreat and The Great Outdoors with wonderful fall colours.

Attended a martial arts retreat here about two weeks ago. The centre is beautiful and peaceful setting. Sleeping area is comfortable and the bathrooms were clean and had lots of hot water. Their food is vegetarian and delicious. They have no problem accommodating those will allergies - I have a dairy allergy and typically in other places the dairy product is simply removed... but here they actually give you dessert! I would love to come back, especially since it is such an easy short drive given where it is :D

We've held a number of retreats at Ecology and we are really happy with this location. The grounds are beautiful, it is so lovely doing yoga with the sound of a babbling brook beside the yoga room. The food is the best we have had at the numerous retreats we've tried. There is always plenty for everyone which is great because people get hungry doing lots of yoga. As long as you are coming for your retreat and nature getaway, not to have a spa experience, I think you will enjoy yourself. I have hosted 3 spring retreats there and have always found the place very clean and the staff very attentive. They ask people to let them know about problems while you are there so they can do something about it asap. It is a simple lodge that used to be a kids camp, with shared bathrooms and separate buildings for the kitchen and the yoga. Each room has its own heating control, it is warm and comfortable. If you know what you are signing on for it helps. We also love the kitchen off the upper yoga room and we keep Yogi Tea going all weekend. It's often the "kitchen party" space for many informal peanut hours to snack and gab. You can also enjoy the hiking trails all around, and the retreat activities, and the closeness to Toronto (only an hour away). For this price range, I think it is money well spent!

Very beautiful & peaceful. Loved all the natural beauty. Unique & private spot to have a small wedding :)