High-performing teams that prioritize inclusivity, cultural awareness and sensitivity experience more cohesion, and businesses should consider Indigenous retreats for their annual workshops to further team-building. With some workplaces returning to in-office policies this year, managing team dynamics, relationships and communication is top of mind for leadership teams.
Indigenous-owned properties offer experiences that blend cultural learning, team connection, and environmental awareness. Guided by Local Knowledge Keepers, teams explore Indigenous traditions, fostering Truth and Reconciliation, DEI efforts, and a healthy team dynamic through immersive workshops.
Fraser River Lodge – Chilliwack, BC
An exclusive riverside escape near Harrison Hot Springs, Fraser River Lodge is the perfect quick getaway for team-building activities and gaining insights into local Stó:lō culture. With fully equipped meeting and conference facilities, annual planning sessions can be complemented by a variety of team-building activities to enhance creative thinking. With everything offered on-site, teams will experience a seamless and exclusive experience with everything from a team canoe journey, cultural experiences, farm classes, axe-throwing, golf, yoga and yard games.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre – Squamish, BC
Located in Squamish at the doorstep of Whistler, the SLCC Cultural Ambassadors can elevate corporate retreats and events by providing cultural experiences including welcoming the team with powerful songs, authentic regalia, and traditional song and dance. With a variety of cultural sharing options that provide a glimpse into the unique cultures of the Squamish and Lil’wat Peoples, the programs are ideal for enhancing holiday and community events, as well as educational presentations, both in-house and off-site.
St. Eugene Golf Resort – Cranbrook, BC
Located within the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, St. Eugene Resort preserves a unique history five minutes away from the Canadian Rockies International Airport. A former residential school, the Mission Building was reclaimed under the leadership of the Ktunaxa Nation and transformed into a full-service resort, conference and meeting centre and premier golf destination.
From Fisher Peak’s alpine glow to the morning elk on the championship golf course, the resort offers opportunities to learn about the region’s deep history and long-standing connection to the land, dating back more than 10,000 years.
Teams can host strategy sessions in their fully equipped meeting and conference facilities, and spend time building further connection and learning by sharing Indigenous-inspired cuisine at the onsite restaurants, workshops at the interpretive centre, or making their way around the 18-hole golf course.
Kwa’lilas Hotel – Port Hardy, BC
Located on the traditional land of the Kwakiutl People, Kwa’lilas Hotel offers a place for teams to stay and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Peoples through curated artwork, including masks and designs by local Indigenous artists displayed throughout the hotel. Kwa’lilas offers Indigenous-inspired cuisine in the Nax’id Pub showcasing West Coast flavours, along with state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities, accommodating gatherings and team-building activities of all sizes.
For teams wanting a little adventure, k’awat’si Tours takes guests into the wild beauty of British Columbia’s coastal rainforests, vibrant marine life, and rich Indigenous culture. With all-inclusive, culturally-guided tours and fishing charters, round off an unforgettable journey through the traditions, history, and untouched natural landscapes of their territories.
Tin Wis – Tofino, BC
Charter a flight from South Terminal in Vancouver with Indigenous, female-owned airline, Iskwew Air and land directly in Tofino in less than an hour. A short van transfer takes teams into the serenity of Tofino, checking into ocean-view rooms at the Tin Wis. The itinerary can span from team-building exercises on Mackenzie Beach, guided experiences by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation to learn about the interconnected relationship between the environment and people, along with strategy and brainstorming meetings in the Tin Wis conference rooms.
