May 13, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Spas & Wellness
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The Hills Health Ranch was an incredible first stop on my Cariboo Chilcotin Coast road trip! I was instantly impressed with the ambiance and friendliness of the Ranch, not to mention the absolutely stunning scenic location! My favourite room of the entire ranch (which is quick large) is the cardio room. As an avid runner (well a most of the time runner!) I quite enjoyed the view, as I stood on the treadmill I looked out through the large bay windows and was greeted by the measureless acres of pristine forest, rolling hills and stunning mountains in the distance, giving the illusion of running outdoors through the native wilderness of British Columbia. If anything could make exercising and running fun and enjoyable, this room was it!
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Spas & Wellness
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I treated my feet in the afternoon to a spa pedicure as they needed some TLC after being trapped inside shoes and socks all winter. The spa area at the ranch is very clean and the charming country decor encourage relaxation and comfort. The esthetician was extremely friendly and professional, answering my questions about what she was doing, product she was using etc. After a lovely foot soak, massage and nail care, my tootsies are soft and supple and ready to take sandal season head on!
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Spas & Wellness
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At first I was apprehensive of trying a fitness class at the ranch but forced myself out of my comfort zone and thought I'd give one a try. Pilates sounded like a good option, something I’d never tried before and it ended up being a great experience! The instructor Cathy was friendly and funny and was great at providing a wide array of options for each exercise depending on skill/fitness level. There was a range of ages and experience levels within the others in the class but Cathy was awesome at giving us newbies tips and advice to ensure we were getting the most out of the moves. The studio is a great space as the large windows allow a ton of light to stream in and brighten up the room. The 50 minute class went by as quick and snappy as Cathy’s jokes and we left feeling strong and able.
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Spas & Wellness
View a larger image on flickr.com
Hills Health Ranch
This ranch is located at 108 Mile House on the #1 Highway headed north. It’s just off the beaten track and easy to find. The drive up to the main house passes by huge horse pens and an impressive red barn to the right - it was so big we all thought that's where we were supposed to being staying. The main lodge is a log building and parking is easy and plentiful. We were greeted at the main hall entrance by the owner and provided a brief tour of the before heading to our rooms. I was surprised to find they had the cutest little wedding chapel and Pat, the owner, told us a couple stories of people who have been married there and ceremonies held in the winter with snow candles lighting the pathways.
They have 16 spa and therapy rooms and each has a different specialty - I’m liking the massage and mud rooms myself. They sell Rose Hip Oil that they produce themselves and even sell to other high end spas and resorts around the world. If it’s not too expensive I’m thinking of taking some home with me. The rooms are softly lit and darker in color and look very relaxing. The chalet I’m in overlooks the valley and the deck off the main room is the full length of the building. Coffee on the deck early tomorrow is where I’ll be for sure. Great spot to work and just enjoy the view and watch the horses wander by.