OVERVIEW STAY PROGRAM NOURISH ME EMBODIMENT SEASONS

Step into an ever-changing landscape of soaring trees and sparkling waters.

Immerse yourself in the pure pleasures of the great outdoors at Dimensions Algonquin Highlands. Situated along the shores of Maple Lake, where it spans nearly 16 hectares of lush woodlands and tranquil glades, our all-season Retreat responds to nature’s rhythms, offering a deep connection to yourself, others and the land.

Every window frames a spectacular view.

Dotting the edge of a forest or overlooking the water, our 15 cabin suites each have a footprint of about 450 square feet. Conceived by DesignAgency – the acclaimed studio behind many notable international hotels and resorts – the cabins feel modern and forward-thinking while remaining rooted in their context and a sense of wholesomeness. Each interior is simple, luxurious and light-filled, with a window seat and private deck that encourage you to immerse yourself in nature, quiet your mind and rest your body.

Respecting Place

Algonquin Highlands is Anishinaabeaki -
Ancestral Territory of Anishinaabeg Peoples.

“As settlers, it is extremely important to acknowledge the land that we are on and the Indigenous Peoples we displaced, severely harmed, and forced to assimilate into settler colonial culture. "

Andrew Galloway, Co-Founder + COO

Anishinaabeaki:
Algonquin Highlands

This Land

Dimensions Algonquin Highlands is located in Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig (“Mississauge”) Territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations, which include: Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Alderville, Scugog Island, Rama, Beausoleil, and Georgina Island First Nations. Source: https://mbclakes.ca/our-lakes/lake-history

Building Relationships

As a non-Indigenous organization, Dimensions Algonquin Highlands occupies space in Treaty 20 territory. As such, we must remain conscious of the deeper history of the land where we operate. Dimensions is committed to being a genuine ally to Indigenous Peoples and place, with an emphasis on the communities where Dimensions Retreats are located. We are in the process of establishing relationships in Algonquin Highlands with Indigenous Elders, individuals, and communities. Over the past few months, Dimensions has:

Entered into a formal contract partnership with Waaseyaa Consulting, an Indigenous consulting company. Waaseyaa Consulting will guide us through best practices related to Indigenous engagement and meaningful relations at our Algonquin Highlands location.
Met with a local Indigenous Elder on the Algonquin Highlands property to introduce our vision and commitment to the community.
Begun working to support and develop commercial partnerships with Indigenous businesses.
Dimensions team to continue to learn about professional responsibilities and educate ourselves on the history of the land and Indigenous peoples.
Developed initial engagement strategies to meaningfully involve Indigenous communities including:
- Creating a Diversity and Inclusion policy for hiring purposes, with guidance from neighbouring Indigenous communities.
- All Dimensions therapists will be trained in Indigenous cultural safety training to enhance self-awareness and strengthen the skills of those who will provide care and work directly with Indigenous people.
- Dimensions is committed to donating a portion of its revenues to local Indigenous communities and organizations.
- Dimensions has established formal considerations and protections for Indigenous cultural heritage sites during all construction projects. Dimensions will work with Indigenous communities and those archaeologists they recommend on construction projects. We commit to surface work on hiking trails to ensure as little disturbance to potential cultural heritage sites as possible.
- Dimensions has begun discussions about how to honour Indigenous Peoples and knowledge appropriately and meaningfully, through relationships and Indigenous-led initiatives, specifically in the areas where we will operate.
In addition to continuing work around the above initiatives, we commit to the following next steps:
Commenced recruiting Indigenous representation on our Advisory Board. We encourage individuals from Indigenous communities within Treaty 20 and all Indigenous candidates with professional or lived experience to contact: [email protected]
Relationship building with Indigenous communities connected to the land now known as Algonquin Highlands
To non-Indigenous people in the Dimensions community, we strongly encourage you to enter into a long-term commitment to learn about the deeper history of the land that you’re on and to develop respectful, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous Peoples in your area. Learn from them. Support them – support artists, craftspeople, knowledge-holders, and events. These actions are specific and local – so you have to do your own homework to get connected.We promise to remain open and committed to working with Indigenous individuals, communities, and nations to determine ways that Dimensions can best support Indigenous communities in the Algonquin Highlands region and all other places where Dimensions is located.We don’t have all of the answers. If you have any suggestions as to how Dimensions can continue to support Indigenous Peoples, we are open to all feedback.

Our Commitment

Land acknowledgements have become like financial disclosures – something that most companies have but many skim over. Dimensions is conscious to go beyond land acknowledgements; we know that it’s more than just stating whose land we are guests on and that we must continuously recognize and dismantle the ways that settler colonialism continues to attempt to cripple Indigenous communities, territories, and cultures.

I have learned that the land now known as Algonquin Highlands is Anishinaabeaki, the ancestral territory of Anishinaabeg People, where many Indigenous communities still remain. I have also learned that this area is a place where Indigenous Peoples travelled, traded, and harvested on the land, lakes, and river systems that are scattered throughout the region until settler colonialism interrupted their traditional lifeways.

As a descendant of settlers, I have learned that it is unacceptable that many people do not understand how colonialism has shaped the history of the land now known as Canada. Since time immemorial, Indigenous peoples have had connections with land that are deeply rooted in reciprocal relationships, and a deep understanding of the land was of the utmost importance for survival.

In our arrogance and ignorance, settlers and further generations of their descendants took the land and attempted to decimate Indigenous existence through genocidal actions. European settlers came to this land with the belief that they were civilized and knew better than those who have thrived here – with complex and sophisticated trade-based economies and spiritual systems – for thousands of years.

As you read this, I encourage you to think and reflect on the history of the land you are on right now and to learn of those Indigenous peoples who remain the original stewards of that land. Do you know whose ancestral territory you’re on?

For settlers, it is extremely important to acknowledge the land that we are on and the Indigenous Peoples we have displaced, severely harmed, and forced to assimilate into settler colonial culture. It is our responsibility to try and rectify this situation through open communication, honesty in our school classrooms, diversion and inclusion policies, supporting the Indigenous Peoples in our community by building authentic relationships and, finally, reciprocity.

We must acknowledge and understand that genocide, ethnic cleansing, forced displacement, land theft, and many other atrocities continue to take place. Further, we must alter our own existence on this land that we now share in order to form respect-based relationships with Indigenous Peoples and the lands that we now call home.

To become a better relation to Indigenous peoples I strongly encourage you to take action around the question: “What can I do to become a better relation to Indigenous Peoples where I live, work, and visit?” If you need a place to start, look to Native-Land.ca to find out whose territory you’re on. Then you can begin researching the deeper history of your area.

Though I still have so much to learn, some very surface-level research has taught me that two treaties cover the Algonquin Highlands area: the Williams Treaties and the Robinson-Huron Treaty. The Williams Treaties were signed on October 31 and November 15, 1923, by seven Anishinaabe First Nations and representatives of the Crown. A commission was established by Canada and led by treaty commissioner A.S. Williams to address lands that had not been surrendered via treaty. The territories covered by the Williams Treaties stretched from the northern shore of Lake Ontario to Lake Nipissing, and together cover approximately 52,000 square kilometres. The geography of the Treaties overlaps with several previous treaties.

The Robinson-Huron Treaty was signed on September 9, 1850, in Sault Ste. Marie. Treaty commissioner William Robinson signed on behalf of the Crown, and several chiefs signed on behalf of First Nations, including noted Anishnaabeg Chief Shinguakonse (1773-1854), also known as “Little Pine” and a veteran of the War of 1812.

Though these are some of the facts surrounding the treaties that cover the area now known as Algonquin Highlands, I have yet to learn directly from Indigenous Peoples who are included in these treaties exactly what impact of these treaties have on their lives today, and how I can step into my role – as a settler on this land – to uphold up my part of the agreement.

It is my hope, that in sharing this information with you, we are encouraging greater settler consciousness. We seek to participate in a longer, deeper understanding of Indigenous history. For us, it is the only path to developing genuine, respectful relationships.

With gratitude,

Andrew Galloway, Co-founder + COO

Your Stay

Reset in comfort from any one of our private cabins. Our serene accommodations and thoughtful amenities allow for complete relaxation.

“We anticipate the diversity of your needs with intuitive hospitality, personalized in every way, and a harmonious design that supports your well-being.”

Laura Banyai, Assistant Lodge Manager

Forest View Cabin

Tucked under the boughs of majestic poplar, maple and oak trees, our 12 forest view cabins feel like hidden havens. Their traditional forms echo local architectural vernacular but are rendered absolutely modern through their cedar cladding, porches and minimalist detailing. Skylights and large picture windows fill each cabin with natural light and open them to late-night stargazing. At once minimal and sumptuous, our forest view cabins bring contemporary comfort to the doorstep of nature.

Lake View Cabin

Watch the sun rise and set from our four south-facing lake view cabins nestled along the shoreline of Maple Lake. Designed to sit discreetly within the landscape, each cedar-clad cabin has a gently sloped roof that rises to allow for sweeping views through a large lake-facing window. Quietly beautiful interiors keep your focus on yourself and your surroundings.

Your Program

The ASCEND program features an all-inclusive five-star Retreat environment over four nights. The program’s psychotherapeutic intensity is a ground-breaking opportunity to leave the everyday behind and begin your journey to self-betterment.

PREPARATION RETREAT INTEGRATION

Pre-Retreat/ One Week Guided Preparation

Virtual group meeting
Dietary advice
Videos
Worksheets
Meditations

Preparation for plant medicine includes group psychotherapy and psychoeducation to prepare you for your plant medicine ceremonies. Through psychotherapy, we will guide you in connecting to your intentions for healing. Education on polyvagal theory will empower you, teaching you how to self-regulate your nervous system. Mindfulness-based practices provide a foundation for you to navigate challenging experiences that may surface during ceremony. Discussions on plant medicine and its psychopharmacology will help you to develop a deeper understanding of the wisdom and intelligence of these natural medicines.

On Retreat/ At Dimensions Algonquin Highlands

Private accommodation and private bathroom, soaker tub, walk-in shower
All meals, drinks, and snacks (healthy and organic)
One psychedelic Plant Medicine Ceremony using cannabis
One Ceremony preparation, group
Three individual Body Work options (choice of: acupuncture, massage, Thai massage)
Three individual Wellness options (choice of individual breathwork, reiki, sound healing, cranial sacral therapy, hot stone massage or mindfulness meditation)
Floatation therapy session (sensory deprivation in a float tank) and BioSound therapy table (biofeedback)
One individual psychotherapy therapy session (1 hr)
One Group psychotherapy for integration (2 hrs)
Daily morning group movement and/or meditation (Yoga, Qigong)
Daily Nature group (forest therapy)
One evening group Sound Bath
One evening group Breathwork
One evening Cacao ceremony, followed by ecstatic dance
Optional Cold exposure therapy (cold plunge)
Seasonal outdoor activities

Pause, reflect, and connect to an enhanced sense of purpose. Your one cannabis Ceremony is at the heart of the immersive Retreat experience. It is the coming together of community in a sacred and ritualist gathering. At Dimensions we draw from indigenous cultures that have worked with Plant Medicines in a ceremonial context. Guided by experienced facilitators who will navigate our group through music, song, and personal healing work in a safe protected environment.

Post-Retreat/ Two Weeks Guided Integration

Virtual group discussion
Videos
Meditations

The process of ceremony continues long after the session is completed. Integration is the process you go through in the days and weeks after the ceremony. During this time, through group psychotherapy, we guide you in making sense of the content of your experience, process the profound insights that came up, and reprocess any significant memories and emotions that surfaced. Body- oriented therapies support your integration by resolving things on a somatic level and work to create greater alignment with the mind and body. After you return home, you will continue to receive online support that will guide you in bringing your external lives into deeper alignment with the changes and discoveries you have made during your retreat.

Food + Nourishment

Chef Miriam Echeverria’s culinary artistry caters to your bio-individuality and shares the best our local ecosystem has to offer. Our menus nourish the soul, and cleanse and prepare the body for Ceremony.

“My cooking begins with memories of family and friends eating together. I capture these special moments with food in a unique, creative and clean way that translates the best local ingredients for our menus.”

Miriam Echeverria, Executive CHEF

Dining

Gather tableside in the Maple Lodge Dining Room, relax and refuel in the Lounge, or pick up food at the Chef's Pantry and wander. We cater to all dietary and nutritional needs.

Dining Room Lounge Chef's Pantry

Our dining room is the culinary centre of Algonquin Highlands.

Table service begins with an early breakfast and early evening dinner service, and warm beverages available at every hour. At breakfast, a communal table is set to nourish and satisfy. A hearty lunch is served family-style or a lighter grab-and-go is available at mid-day. Dinner features a nightly three-course menu. All menus cater to a range of raw, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, keto and animal protein dietary inclinations.

Relax and enjoy a midday snack overlooking Maple Lake.

Our lounge is the ideal setting for an impromptu health-and-wellness snack and flavourful beverages at any time of the day or night. During lunch, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to vitamin-packed beverages that can be tailored to each person’s bio-individuality. Open-faced sandwiches, salad plates and raw bowls are also made to order in the comfort of this inviting lounge every day from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Eat deliciously – anywhere, anytime.

When we are away from home, our appetites and cravings may grow, retract or generally change in a multitude of ways. At Dimensions, we aim to help feed and hydrate your body whenever you may wish, and in any place you might choose to wander within our grounds. Chef’s ready-made food and healthy drink options are available at all times by way of the kitchen counter, located at the chef’s pantry.

Embodiment

Build a stronger connection to your body and integrate the knowledge gained from your Dimensions Retreat plant medicine Ceremony. Develop a deeper kinship with your physical intuition and improve self-awareness, resilience and self-worth.

“Feeling safe and at home in our bodies allows us to live in the present without dwelling on the past or fearing the future. We teach our guests how to tune in and listen for the answers their bodies hold.”

Donald Currie, RP, Clinical Director

Body, Mind, Spirit

Explore the wisdom of the body and allow yourself the quiet luxury of these deep healing treatments.

Well-Being Spa Metaphysical

Align the body and the mind with their surroundings.

Restore a sense of balance with such modifying practices as somatic experiencing, biofeedback, breathwork, yoga and mindfulness-based nature walks. Our wellness therapies support the deep healing effects of plant medicine, help you prepare for your Dimensions Retreat Ceremony and integrate your discoveries afterwards.

Cultivate a new-found sense of calm.

Infused with the energies of nature, our restorative spa offers an invigorating and regenerative sanctuary. Relax in our tranquil environments as you move between our indoor and outdoor lakeside amenities.

Keep your energy flowing.

Metaphysical therapies focus on the spiritual and energetic aspects of human experience. Reiki and healing touch, meditation and bioenergetic clearing address holistic needs and balance the body’s energy fields. Together with complementary spiritual guidance and counselling, treatments such as these guide you toward better understanding of the meaning and significance of your plant medicine experiences.

Year-Round Discovery

Dimensions Algonquin Highlands unfolds below a forest canopy where two biospheres meet. The land’s extensive flora and fauna are influenced by the region’s elemental forces, and summer, autumn, winter and spring are all spectacular in their own ways.

“The transformation that we seek within ourselves cannot be separated from our environments. The rocks, the trees, and all of Earth’s elements in nature guide us to peaceful spaces for growth.”

Eric Dawson, Property and Activity Manager

Seasons

Explore the wonders of the natural world, all year long. On self-guided adventures or during expert-led excursions. After sunset, our secluded location lets the night sky shine, affording visitors the chance to spot a shooting star among the constellations.

spring summer fall winter

Join nature’s annual cycle of regeneration and renewal.

Spring is when the sugars in the roots of trees turn into sap, stimulating new leaves, new life and new beginnings. Hiking trails are lined with wildflowers, and deer are commonly seen grazing in the early dawn. As the land awakens from winter’s slumber, our vegetable gardens sprout a bounty of fresh delicacies, which our chef turns into nourishing meals that fuel mind and body.

Let the golden days of summer energize your soul.

After the summer solstice, lingering rays of warm sunshine encourage life to flourish. Enjoy the restorative properties of a gentle walk around wetland marshes or challenge yourself with an invigorating hike along wooded trails. The still, pristine waters of Maple Lake entice guests to kayak, canoe, paddleboard or simply cool off with a refreshing swim. Learn the art of beekeeping and connect with nature on a whole new level.

Immerse yourself in dazzling fall colour.

Observe the forest canopy as it transitions from deep greens to vibrant reds, yellows, oranges and coppers courtesy of the area’s towering maple, oak and poplar trees. It’s harvest time and wild mushrooms sprinkle the forest floor, offering the chance to hone your foraging skills. End the day by the blaze of a crackling campfire.

Step into a winter wonderland experience.

An average snowfall of close to two metres promises a landscape blanketed in pristine white drifts at winter’s peak. Trek into the forest, where frost-tipped evergreens tempt adventurers to snowshoe, or cross-country ski along trails criss-crossed with the footprints of local wildlife. Follow a relaxing sauna with a polar plunge in the ice-capped waters of Maple Lake invigorate
body and spirit.

Kind words from our guests

Dimensions exceeded all expectations. From the moment I arrived until the very last moments of departure, I was cared for with such exquisite attention to detail that I recognized the healing had begun the moment I stepped foot on this sacred ground.

Kim S., April 2023

From the minute you enter this beautiful retreat you will feel calm and healing energy all around you. The stunning accommodation, incredible food, nourishing juices, and scenic surroundings were 10/10. Staff were always there to help. The ceremonies and treatments themselves we perfectly balanced and executed with care and intention. I highly recommend you go!

Anushki B., February 2023

Thank you all at the retreat for what you deliver and the kindness with how you deliver it, because all these months later I still reap the benefits.

Bruce W., CAF Veteran, February 2023

Dimensions is a WORLD CLASS operation, …As someone who has stayed at a few of the world's top ranked hotels, I can safely say Dimensions offers an extremely high-end hotel experience which, naturally, includes not just the facilities, but the quality of service too.

Don M., March 2023

Wow. This was one of the most powerful healing experiences I have ever had. Great accommodations and incredible facilitators!

Anthony H., March 2023

I cannot say enough good things about my experience at Dimensions. The facility is luxurious yet has the welcoming vibe of a close friend's cottage. The staff are attentive and intuitive and seem to know what you want/need before you do. The food is fantastic. You feel nourished and cared for throughout the week. The combination of treatments, therapy, and ceremony left me feeling rejuvenated and more equipped to take on a new chapter in life.

Andrew C, March 2023

"An unforgettable experience I had with my partner."

GRIEG + JAY, JULY 2022

"Went in a jaded cynic with permanently hunched shoulders, came out a true believer with a mind as open as my newly freed trapezius."

– IVY K., AUGUST 2022

“The star and the moon were in perfect alignment for this transformational journey with Mother Nature and my soul sisters.”

- JACQUELINE G., AUGUST 2022

“A revitalizing place! The tranquility in nature and thoughtfulness embedded into the facilities came together in a uniquely positive way.”

JAY, JULY 2022

"A feast for all the senses, a celebration of mind, body and soul, a connection to the heavens, to nature, to my fellow humans, to myself."

-KERRY K., AUGUST 2022

I attended Dimensions with an open mind, though admittedly a mind raised according to traditional western medical science. The one-on-one breath work blew me away. At the end of it, my mind was more at peace than I’ve ever experienced before. I held my breath for more than four minutes! I am in awe. What an extraordinary gift.

David S., August 2022

My stay at Dimensions Algonquin Highlands was deeply nourishing, peaceful, and awe-inspiring. As soon as I arrived, I felt instantly supported and cared for by the incredible team there, who ensure your every need is met. My wellness journey was thoughtfully planned and personalized, allowing me to fully disconnect and reconnect with both myself and nature. I have immense gratitude towards the community Dimensions is creating –– its Retreat experience is one of the greatest investments I’ve made towards personal growth, well-being and healing.

Shannan W., August 2022

With the help of Dimensions’ genuine, caring experts, my results were profound. I hope to make this an annual experience for the maintenance of my mental health.”

Bruce S., August 2022

Dimensions is a tune-up for the heart, mind and body. You get what you need, not necessarily what you thought you wanted. It's a true gift to yourself. A big thank you to the wonderful clinicians and staff!

Steph G., August 2022

Donald Currie’s patience and wisdom allow connection and quickly establish trust. The location, accommodations, amazing food, and friendly staff contribute to the safe space Donald creates. I loved every second and will be back.

Joyanne P., August 2022

The communal vibe at Dimensions ensured everyone I met quickly felt like an old friend. From the amazing meals (hats off to the chef!) to the group campfires and the sound bath – which was like nothing I’d ever imagined – everything was perfect. My entire Dimensions experience was the epitome of "zen"; I would do it over and over again.”

Jennifer R., August 2022

So much care and attentiveness goes into a Dimensions retreat. I felt supported, as I released stress and pain in the therapeutic treatments and ceremony. The whole experience was nurturing and healing.

Val H., December 2022

I visited Dimensions in the Summer of 22 and the location along the lake is automatically welcoming and soothing as is the staff. I found my time there to be transformative. The 5-star accommodations are just that touch of luxury that allows you to enjoy the outside, inside on the most comfortable mattress ever. At every turn you’re immersed in nature. The sound baths were healing, therapeutic and relaxing to the point you can’t believe how quickly an hour can fly by. I had a great time mentally. Last but not least is the food. The food was not only bursting with flavour & colour, it was all locally sourced. Kudos to Chef and her team. Thank you Dimensions for a spectacular experience that will be with me for a lifetime.

Gail B., Summer 2022

The minute we entered the property I felt calmer. We were immediately greeted by the team with such a warm reception and they all jumped in to ensure we didn't have to worry about a single thing from that moment on. The communal vibe of this place from the meals (hats off to the chef - amazing!) to the campfires was just perfection; everyone we met felt just like old friends. And the sound bath....the sound bath...was like nothing I've ever imagined. The entire experience was the epitome of "zen" and would do it over and over again. Thank you again and thank you for the holiday card. Such a personal touch!

Jennifer R., 2022

I visited Dimensions in summer of 2022. We were going to be arriving later than the rest of the guests and dinner was scheduled to be served, family style at a specific time. Feeling embarrassed I advised them that myself and spouse would not be present for the 5 star chef prepared dinner as planned. When we arrived, the chef prepared our own snack consisting of black bean hummus from scratch and the most delicious fresh bread I've ever tasted. I call this above and beyond. And unexpected. From that point on, I knew we were in good hands. The staff was present, friendly and showed a genuine interest in all of us and kept there presence involved yet in the background which we appreciated. We enjoyed paddle boarding, sound baths, great food, hikes and bonfires. The accommodation was stellar and clean. Frequently touched up and extremely modern. We even received a holiday card over the holidays, reminding me again of the personalities I crossed paths with during my experience there and provide another grateful feeling.

Tammy R., Summer 2022

While I could write an entire review on the luxurious accommodations, from the private deck facing the forest, the gorgeous rainfall shower and soaker tub to the pillow soft that made getting a peaceful nights rest a sure thing....the REAL diamond of this hidden oasis are the activities and services that are available to guests. Every event was an opportunity to learn, heal and grow while reconnecting with nature. During a birdwatching excursion, we learned about the history of the land and the habitat these beautiful animals rely on for food and shelter. The most transformative and healing experience for me was the sound bath, a combination of vibrational music and guided meditation. Through this session, I was able to release the anxiety, stress and tension that I had been bottling since the start of the pandemic, and reconnect with my true Self. Every aspect of this retreat was perfectly suited in my journey to reclaiming my mental, emotional and physical health. I will definitely be visiting again and highly recommend Dimensions to anyone who is in need of a comfortable and safe space to rest and heal!

Andrea I.

Visited Dimensions over the summer and had a great time, the food was amazing, the sound bath in the Geodesic dome was an awesome experience. It was right on the water which was very nice and private, enjoyed canoeing and paddle boarding. The actual rooms were beautiful, everything was pristine and the heated floors were a nice touch, had a great view of the forest and were lucky enough to see some deer right outside our back deck. Would def recommend this oasis as a nice break from the city life.

John B., Summer 2022