A Riverfront Retreat with a Story to Tell
Discover the people, passion, and peaceful riverside setting that inspired our accommodations.
Our Story
As The River Bends Retreat Inc. began with our love for nature, our beautiful community and with supporting others. We wanted to blend these passions and create a place where others could come to relax, restore, rejuvenate and enjoy the amazing benefits of being in nature.
We are very eco conscious and wherever possible the fabulous items at the retreat have been re-loved, reimagined, recycled or made from organic or sustainable products. We are conscious about our impact on the environment and we take many steps to minimize our footprint as we do our part to ensure a beautiful future for all.
Meet Our Owners
Together with my partner and co team captain in life Mark and our 3 sons we have created As The River Bends Retreat Inc. Although we both grew up in the Annapolis Valley we have spent time living in the US, Nunavut and other communities. However when it came time to choose a place to raise our boys the decision was easy, we needed to come home to the beautiful Annapolis Valley.
My family has lived in the community of Bishopville for generations, I spent my childhood growing up here playing in the woods, river and fields. When we had the opportunity to purchase land along the Halfway river we just knew that it was the perfect place to raise our boys. As a family we have lived on this property for over 10 years. Over those years we have created countless memories, enjoyed priceless moments and now that our boys have grown I felt it was time to share this special place with others.
I have spent my entire career supporting others through working with children, youth and adults with trauma and diverse needs in the departments of health, education and community services. I've seen first hand the need for opportunities where we can truly reset, relax, get away from everyday stresses and get back to the simpler things in life.
My love and respect for nature has grown from a very young age whether it was helping on our small family farm, going to the woods with my Dad or hiking as an adult. I've always noticed just how much better I felt after spending time in nature. My dream is to create a place for others to visit where they can experience and enjoy the many benefits of being in nature. Our domes and experiences are all created from my heart and passion for helping, healing and nature.
Our goal is for our guests to leave feeling a little better than when they arrived. We can’t wait to welcome you at the retreat.
—Shawna
Cleaning Statement
We take the health and safety of our guests and our community very seriously.
We want everyone visiting the retreat to feel safe during their stay. We are following all of the guidelines from public health and world health organizations. Through awareness, education and best practices we are creating an environment that is safe for everyone to enjoy. Our team members have been trained in the “Clean it Right” program through the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia (TIANS).
