My husband sent me and my friend to Grail Springs to de-stress. My friend and I were stressed-out and felt like we were far more serious and tense than we used to be. The Grail is a very intimate place, not many people are there at one time. We were a bit unsure of whether we would like the schedule of a retreat. But it turned out to be nice to eat at set times and not have to worry about what we'd choose from a menu. When we got there we were a bit late for dinner and were made to feel right at home. We were offered a room upgrade as it was available and got to see the room we would have had which was also lovely. The rooms have a bed & breakfast quality to them. You did not feel obligated to attend the activities on the schedule. I loved the morning Mantra it is a great and relaxing way to start your day (it only takes a few minutes). The grounds are lovely and the whole place is relaxing. We went on a guided hike, and my friend went for a run. They gave her a walkie talkie so that if she had any problems she would be connected with reception. I never spend time in lobbies or great rooms of normal hotels, and was surprised that both my friend and I spent as much time as possible in the great room reading and relaxing. The food was great -in our opinion. We both are accustomed to eating healthy foods that are not overly rich. I was surprised how filling the meals were. We were curious to see if my friend would have to ask for seconds (which is no problem there) as she is athletic and likes her food; but she was satisfied. If you don't like something or have an allergy, they want to know so that they can accomodate you. I liked the tonic at breakfast and elixers between meals (if you miss one just ask). It occurred to us at the end that we had not had any white or red meat and we had not missed it! One evening I stepped outside for a moment to enjoy the night air and saw a white tailed doe. The staff were friendly and described working there as being like part of a family. We attended the evening activities (yoga one night and learning about essential oils the next) and enjoyed them. The outdoor hot tub and sauna are lovely with a european feel. Indoors there is a steam room, and a great infra-red sauna (and you can choose the colour of the lights). The staff were also happy to provide recipies that we were interested in. Between meals there were apples and oranges and sometimes an extra snack (like popcorn). There was tea in our room. The horse whisperer was great, possibly the most gentle horseman I think I've ever met. And the Rocky Mountain horses lovely. We were fortunate to have Tom as our RMT, we were so lucky that he was in as he's semi-retired. My friend and I agreed that that was quite possibly the best massage we'd ever had! (And we've had quite a few.) I was completely ironed out, and I was actually able to read afterwards without my neck bothering me (I don't remember the last time that happened). I also had the moor mud treatment, and raindrop therapy (which is essential oils/light massage) which were great. Don't be surprised at seeing people walking around in their bath robe and slippers (provided), you could spend your entire time dressed in your robe if you wanted to. There is an artist on site with a small gallery. We both left feeling like totally different people, much more relaxed and happy! I even felt healthier after only 2 nights. I hope that I will be able to return another time. I would not even mind going solo, some of the people who had gone on their own were sitting at the same table by the end. If you like to know things way ahead of time ask when your spa sessions are scheduled for, otherwise you get a little paper schedule with breakfast indicating when your paid treatments are. Interestingly, there are a few options of good quality pillows to choose from on your bed, one was even buckwheat (never seen that before and my friend bought some). Only criticizm was the lock on the door was a bit fiddly at times, but it worked. Sad that I could not stay longer.

My first visit to Grail Springs was a two-night stay during the summer approximately one year ago. This time around, I stayed for five nights after Christmas. I found the level of service this time around to be elevated from its previous above standard level. My goal of achieving a healthful balance was accomplished. This is one of the only places I have found
(in ontario) that embraces healthful eating, plenty of programmed activities, spa treatments, spiritual enlightenment, and a chance to connect with others.

I just came back from five spectacular days at Grail Springs Spa in Bancroft. It seems they thought of everything including a magical land of white snow that sparkled in the moonlight. But more than that, I spent five days immersed in a warm and inviting home - this is nothing that I have ever experienced at a "spa" and I left with the magic and memories that will last me til my next visit. I want to thank all the staff, from the chef to the clinicians to the front desk staff - you really know how to make everyone feel welcome. I especially want to thank the Horse Whisperer - the journey through the woods on your beautiful animals was like a dream and one that I will never forget!! To all of you who have been thinking about that very special place to go, I recommend you take a look at Grail Springs and all the things it has to offer, whatever your needs or situation. Thanks Grail Spa!!! Elizabeth from Toronto

I spent the weekend at Grail Springs & it was AMAZING. I had wanted to get away to a Canadian “Spa/Retreat” & found Grail Springs online. I was looking for someplace I could work on some health issues & detox the toxins & chemicals from my life. Even in just a weekend my goal was accomplished along with so much more. I went by myself & it was perfect, I was able to get in touch with my spirituality & heal on a personal level. I took a detoxifying Himalayan bath salts soak (bath salts provided in room), took part in yoga classes, 2 sessions in the infrared sauna, outdoor hot tub & grotto, meditation in the labyrinth, had an amazing treatment (raindrop aromatherapy, highly recommend!), walked to the quartz quarry, ate amazing food, drank lots of hot water with lemon & herbal teas & met some fantastic people.
On the last day we took part in a fire ceremony where we put our intentions into action & a rock ceremony where we left the negativity, it was very moving & spiritual, I will cherish it always.
I took part in “vision your life” seminar with Judith Onley & left with excellent tools on how to live your life with joy and remove negative thoughts & energy from your life. I wrote in my journal throughout the weekend & have some amazing take a ways that have been helping me already in dealing with my health issues & in ridding the negative energy from my life. I have been feeling more positive & fulfilled. I also took part in a 2012 planning session to help with "where you are going" with Madeleine, where she shared some of her 2011 goals & helped us find what was important to us & bring it to the forefront of balance in our lives.
In addition to all the above benefits, the Grail is set on the most amazing picturesque settings I have ever seen & the room, lobby, spa, yoga rooms, dining room, great room are all spectacular, I give my visit 5 starts on ALL levels! The only thing I have to complain about is that I didn’t stay longer. I can’t wait to go back. Madeleine (the founder), Judith (healer/energy) & John (resident artists) were all fabulous & will be lifelong friends.