The highlight of Tigh-Na-Mara is undoubtedly the Grotto Spa, which was recently named the #1 Spa in Canada by Spas of America.
PARKSVILLE – Award winning Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort and Conference Centre is nestled in the woods near Rathtrevor Beach, and it’s one of the greenest properties anywhere.
General Manager Jim Hykaway says the locally owned, independent resort that was first purchased in 1946 and became a resort in 1959, was bought by the present owners in 1981 and has turned it into a full-service spa, destination resort and conference centre over the following 22 years.
“We are on an ongoing journey towards Biosphere Certification and are committed to the 17 Sustainability Goals,” says Hykaway. “Our team and the environment are our most precious assets. Tigh-Na-Mara is committed to continually enhancing our guest services in a respectful, supportive and natural environment. We are grateful to have 22 acres in one of the most beautiful parts of Vancouver Island, and perhaps, the world.
“Tigh-Na-Mara recognizes our role in stewardship for this property. We support our community and the environment through sustainable practices while creating memorable guest experiences.”
The property is Biosphere Committed as of this year, and is working intently towards certification. They are participating in the Circular Economy Accelerator Program this fall, which provides hands-on support to businesses on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast who seek to adopt circular economy principles, reduce waste and emissions, increase revenue, and develop innovative practices.
Environmental upgrades were at the forefront of the Oceanfront Room Renovations that took place between 2016 and 2023, a $20 million investment and part of their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Tigh-Na-Mara is an opportunity to reconnect with nature, indulge in seasonal delights and create cherished memories with friends and family, with 22 acres of forested property, perched on a bluff overlooking the Salish Sea.
In the exterior, using only second growth logs and wood trims on decks and exterior, using water based low VOC stains and paints, and drought tolerant plants for landscaping. Drip irrigation and metal roofs were installed for seasonal watering so that no harmful contaminants are produced from rainfall. They upgraded to low-E windows and doors to maximize energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling demands.
Interiors contain energy rated appliances and heat pumps utilizing less power. Water-based, low VOC stains, paints and low-flow plumbing fixtures, as well as LED lighting help reduce energy consumption, as do key card/occupancy activated lighting and fireplace controls.
Room amenities are refillable, ethically sourced, not tested on animals, and are non-GMO.
Environmental upgrades were at the forefront of the oceanfront room renovations.
There are also a large amount of environmentally thoughtful aspects included in Tigh-Na-Mara’s commitment to Biosphere Certification.
“As a result, we have been awarded a 4 out of 5 key rating for excellence in environmental and social responsibility in all operational areas by the Green Key Eco-Rating Program in 2018, 2019 and 2021,” Hykaway states. “We were the first resort on Vancouver Island to utilize renewable natural gas, which earned us the Tourism Vancouver Island Fortis BC award in 2016.”
The Grotto Spa, recently named the #1 Spa in Canada by Spas of America, is an indoor and outdoor experience, as guests immerse themselves in their sauna garden, which boasts four, eight-person cedar barrel saunas, cozy lounge chairs, inviting fire tables and beverage service, along with their indoor mineral pool, whirlpool and cascading waterfalls.
The Treetop Tapas & Grill at the Grotto Spa is home to a culinary experience unlike any other in Canada. Guests can dine comfortably in their robes and sandals overlooking the surrounding forest as they indulge in their curated Chef’s Tasting Menu featuring the diverse flavours of the Pacific Northwest.
The Cedars Restaurant and Lounge features fare prepared by their award-winning culinary team that creates local, regional and international dishes, and with 10,000 square feet of flexible conference space, Tigh-Na-Mara is the largest resort conference centre on the island north of Victoria.
As one of the largest employers in Parksville, Tigh-Na-Mara was awarded the Community Contribution Impact Award by the BC Tourism & Hospitality Awards in 2023, and through their business partnerships they are responsible for planting over 65,000 trees.
“We are new to this journey,” Hykaway adds. “But our guests are with us on making the change.”
Business Examiner Staff
