June 28 - July 3, 2021
With Jennifer Turner & Traverse Journeys
INDULGE & REJUVENATE IN THIS NATURAL PARADISE
Discover the Caribbean's best-kept secret on this 6-day Dominica tour and adventure retreat. You'll find yourself hiking to lush waterfalls, snorkeling in the pristine waters, exploring native plants and medicinal herbs, canyoning through spectacular rainforest gorges, and learning about Dominica's unique history and development along the way. Dubbed the 'nature island,' this jurassic-looking tropical island is teeming with mountainous peaks covered in greens of all shades and surrounded by the bluest of blues. Indulge at our incredible boutique eco-lodgings that will rejuvenate your mind & spirit while pampering your senses. At our accommodations you'll also have daily yoga offerings as well as gourmet meals served up while soaking in your ravishing surroundings. A revitalizing experience awaits when you escape to this under-visited slice of natural heaven with us!
TRIP INCLUDES
Accommodations
- 5 nights at our boutique eco-resort lodgings
- Transportation
- Airport transfer to/from Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM)
- All in country transportation between destinations and activities in private vehicles
- Daily yoga with Jenn Turner
- Guided hike to Middleham falls
- Snorkeling at Champagne Pool
- Caribbean cooking class
- Visit Scotts Head & Soufriere village
- Dominican Medicinal Herbs and Teas Experience
- Explore Morne Bruce & Botanical Gardens, Trafalgar Falls & Titou Gorge
- Access to private trails on the lodge’s property, an incredible infinity pool, whirlpool, luscious spa treatments & more!
- All breakfasts
- 2 lunches + 4 dinners
Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PARADISE
Arrive to Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) at anytime. Transportation will be provided from the airport to your luxe lodgings perched atop a jungle-clad hill with expansive views over Dominica’s southwest coast. Enjoy the scenic drive as you traverse across untouched jungle peaks. Upon arrival to our retreat accommodations, take the afternoon to relax and reset in your lush surroundings complete with a stunning infinity pool, gardens galore, and beautiful views in every direction. If you arrive by mid-afternoon you can join a Dominican Medicinal Herbs and Teas Experience to learn about the ancient herbal remedies of the island’s traditional peoples. The fragrant herbs you will encounter during this presentation are grown right in the gardens of our eco-lodge. You can even make your own tea blends during this interactive ‘wellness experience for the senses’ where you get to see, touch, smell, and taste! In the early evening we'll gather together for a special yoga class, followed by a delicious Welcome dinner full of the island’s organic ingredients and Caribbean flavors.
DAY 2: EXPLORE ABOVE & BELOW WATER
Awaken to the day with a rejuvenating morning yoga session and a satiating breakfast before we head out for explorations. We’ll take a short drive to the peninsula and peak of Scotts Head — dividing the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic — and walk up to the Scotts Head peak. Enjoy the spectacular view of pristine waters, Scotts Head Village, Soufriere and Dominica. From there, a short drive will bring us to the fishing village of Soufriere and its natural hot springs. In pre-Columbian times, “sulphuric springs” were a place of mythic geography for the Amerindians and Soufriere was an important meeting place for the Kalinagos from the Caribbean islands.
In the afternoon it’s time to don a mask and fins for underwater serenity at Champagne Beach! This unique area is part of the protected Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve. Underground geothermal activity seeps through the ocean floor and is cooled by sea waves, rising in a lines of bubbles creating a memorable snorkeling experience. As you’re immersed by thousands of tiny bubbles, you can also see fan coral, turtles and a variety of tropical fish.
In the early evening after arriving to back to our lodgings you’re welcome to join a relaxing yoga class to wind down from the day's adventures before sitting down to another freshly-prepared dinner.
DAY 3: TROPICAL ABUNDANCE & COMMUNITY PARTNER
Another morning yoga session awaits followed by breakfast and the day’s adventures. We’ll head out to Morne Bruce, Roseau (offering a panoramic view of the entire city), stop to visit the Botanical Gardens and then continue to Trafalgar Falls. The incredible twin waterfalls of Trafalgar are easily accessible with a short 10- to 15-minute walk along a well-maintained foot path. The adventurous can opt to clamber up the boulders towards the waterfall pools where they’ll be rewarded with warm springs tumbling down for a natural shoulder massage. From there, a quick drive will take us to Laudat to visit the spectacular Titou Gorge (located at the start of the hike to the Boiling Lake). It’s a short walk to the Gorge where you can enjoy a short swim through a series of natural "rooms and ponds" formed by high cliff walls canopied by interlaced trees leading to a hidden waterfall. (Fun fact: a part of the second “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie was filmed here, when captain Jack and his crew were trying to escape from the tribe and fell into this gorge.
After returning to our eco-lodge we’ll sit down with leaders from our Community Partner in Dominica — a fund dedicated to uplifting the local community by supporting proven projects that champion indigenous populations, literacy, disabled persons, education, entrepreneurs, clean water accessibility, conservation efforts and more. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and learn about Dominica’s history and present day aspirations through understanding important community values and challenges.
In the evening you may opt for a soothing yoga session before your gourmet dinner.
DAY 4: LUSH HIKE TO WATERFALL MAGIC
An optional morning yoga session is available, and of course your delicious breakfast packed with tropical goodness awaits. Today we’ll explore the misty mountain trail leading to Middleham Falls, immersing ourselves in lush rainforest vegetation along the way. Jaco parrots are occasionally heard or spotted along this trail and keep your eyes open for star fruit, wild cashews, mango and more. The end of the hike becomes a little steeper as you scramble your way down to the waterfall pool, where a refreshing swim beckons. Did you know that swimming in waterfalls exposes you to negative ions which are a purification to help counteract stress and strengthen your immune system?
This afternoon you’ll have free time to enjoy the incredible infinity pool at our property, explore the surrounding area, or perhaps book a soothing spa treatment! In the evening we’ll gather for yoga together and you may dine onsite or explore dinner options in the area as you like.
DAY 5: CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
This morning after your breakfast you may choose from a variety of options. If relaxing down time is the name of the game for you, this day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a slow day to soak in your peaceful surroundings. Poolside lounging and a good book await! For hikers, you can explore Dominica's Waitukubli National Trail — the Caribbean's first long distance walking trail with 14 Segment in total; covering 115 miles from the south to the north of Dominica. Today you can hike Segment 1 starting from Soufriere along the Brooklyn / Bois Cotlette Road towards Galion. Before reaching the mountain village of Galion, a trail leads towards the east, through farm land and up a steeper track to the Morne Kwabier Plateau at 1,200 ft above sea level, providing a spectacular view of Martinique and Scotts Head’s Bay. Those who love a challenging hike will be thrilled to explore Dominica’s famous "World Wonder" and UNESCO World Heritage Site — the mysterious Boiling Lake & Valley of Desolation. (Update March 2021: currently closed due to landslides). Along the way you can soak in hot water pools and even have a sulphur mud facial. The hike is approximately 3 hours each way, up & down fairly steep hills (proceed with caution if afraid of heights).
For those who prefer ocean based activities, options abound! Divers will love exploring the beautiful coral and tropical fish found in Scotts Head Marine Reserve. Alternatively, you can explore the waters on a whale-watching trip. Dominica is the only country in the world where nearly 200 resident sperm whales live year-round, making your chances of seeing them in all their glory incredibly high.
Last but not least, you may instead opt for a unique bucket-list adventure: canyoning through some of the most spectacular gorges in the world! Jump into hidden pools with crystal clear water beneath the rain forest and descend into deep canyons carved from thousands of years of rainfall. Whether hiking through lush jungle or rappelling halfway down a rock to drop in the water below, your day is sure to be filled with the sound of cheers for every natural obstacle tackled! All are welcome — no training or experience is required for this epic excursion.
After a day filled with the activities you picked just for yourself, we’ll gather together again in the late afternoon for a Caribbean cooking class. Learn how to prepare local Caribbean cuisine full of organic vegetables, seasonal fruit, unique spices, eggs, fish, and more. Ingredients sourced directly from the property will likely be included in the recipes! A soothing evening yoga session awaits for those who’d like to partake, after which we’ll enjoy a special Farewell Dinner, once again packed with fresh flavors of culinary creativity.
DAY 6: DEPARTURE
You may depart from Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) at any time this day. Morning yoga and breakfast are available to you, after which your airport transportation will be arranged according to your flight time. If you’d like to add on more days to saturate yourself in this paradise, we can happily arrange extended days and activities - just ask!
Arrive to Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) at anytime. Transportation will be provided from the airport to your luxe lodgings perched atop a jungle-clad hill with expansive views over Dominica’s southwest coast. Enjoy the scenic drive as you traverse across untouched jungle peaks. Upon arrival to our retreat accommodations, take the afternoon to relax and reset in your lush surroundings complete with a stunning infinity pool, gardens galore, and beautiful views in every direction. If you arrive by mid-afternoon you can join a Dominican Medicinal Herbs and Teas Experience to learn about the ancient herbal remedies of the island’s traditional peoples. The fragrant herbs you will encounter during this presentation are grown right in the gardens of our eco-lodge. You can even make your own tea blends during this interactive ‘wellness experience for the senses’ where you get to see, touch, smell, and taste! In the early evening we'll gather together for a special yoga class, followed by a delicious Welcome dinner full of the island’s organic ingredients and Caribbean flavors.
DAY 2: EXPLORE ABOVE & BELOW WATER
Awaken to the day with a rejuvenating morning yoga session and a satiating breakfast before we head out for explorations. We’ll take a short drive to the peninsula and peak of Scotts Head — dividing the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic — and walk up to the Scotts Head peak. Enjoy the spectacular view of pristine waters, Scotts Head Village, Soufriere and Dominica. From there, a short drive will bring us to the fishing village of Soufriere and its natural hot springs. In pre-Columbian times, “sulphuric springs” were a place of mythic geography for the Amerindians and Soufriere was an important meeting place for the Kalinagos from the Caribbean islands.
In the afternoon it’s time to don a mask and fins for underwater serenity at Champagne Beach! This unique area is part of the protected Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve. Underground geothermal activity seeps through the ocean floor and is cooled by sea waves, rising in a lines of bubbles creating a memorable snorkeling experience. As you’re immersed by thousands of tiny bubbles, you can also see fan coral, turtles and a variety of tropical fish.
In the early evening after arriving to back to our lodgings you’re welcome to join a relaxing yoga class to wind down from the day's adventures before sitting down to another freshly-prepared dinner.
DAY 3: TROPICAL ABUNDANCE & COMMUNITY PARTNER
Another morning yoga session awaits followed by breakfast and the day’s adventures. We’ll head out to Morne Bruce, Roseau (offering a panoramic view of the entire city), stop to visit the Botanical Gardens and then continue to Trafalgar Falls. The incredible twin waterfalls of Trafalgar are easily accessible with a short 10- to 15-minute walk along a well-maintained foot path. The adventurous can opt to clamber up the boulders towards the waterfall pools where they’ll be rewarded with warm springs tumbling down for a natural shoulder massage. From there, a quick drive will take us to Laudat to visit the spectacular Titou Gorge (located at the start of the hike to the Boiling Lake). It’s a short walk to the Gorge where you can enjoy a short swim through a series of natural "rooms and ponds" formed by high cliff walls canopied by interlaced trees leading to a hidden waterfall. (Fun fact: a part of the second “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie was filmed here, when captain Jack and his crew were trying to escape from the tribe and fell into this gorge.
After returning to our eco-lodge we’ll sit down with leaders from our Community Partner in Dominica — a fund dedicated to uplifting the local community by supporting proven projects that champion indigenous populations, literacy, disabled persons, education, entrepreneurs, clean water accessibility, conservation efforts and more. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and learn about Dominica’s history and present day aspirations through understanding important community values and challenges.
In the evening you may opt for a soothing yoga session before your gourmet dinner.
DAY 4: LUSH HIKE TO WATERFALL MAGIC
An optional morning yoga session is available, and of course your delicious breakfast packed with tropical goodness awaits. Today we’ll explore the misty mountain trail leading to Middleham Falls, immersing ourselves in lush rainforest vegetation along the way. Jaco parrots are occasionally heard or spotted along this trail and keep your eyes open for star fruit, wild cashews, mango and more. The end of the hike becomes a little steeper as you scramble your way down to the waterfall pool, where a refreshing swim beckons. Did you know that swimming in waterfalls exposes you to negative ions which are a purification to help counteract stress and strengthen your immune system?
This afternoon you’ll have free time to enjoy the incredible infinity pool at our property, explore the surrounding area, or perhaps book a soothing spa treatment! In the evening we’ll gather for yoga together and you may dine onsite or explore dinner options in the area as you like.
DAY 5: CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
This morning after your breakfast you may choose from a variety of options. If relaxing down time is the name of the game for you, this day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a slow day to soak in your peaceful surroundings. Poolside lounging and a good book await! For hikers, you can explore Dominica's Waitukubli National Trail — the Caribbean's first long distance walking trail with 14 Segment in total; covering 115 miles from the south to the north of Dominica. Today you can hike Segment 1 starting from Soufriere along the Brooklyn / Bois Cotlette Road towards Galion. Before reaching the mountain village of Galion, a trail leads towards the east, through farm land and up a steeper track to the Morne Kwabier Plateau at 1,200 ft above sea level, providing a spectacular view of Martinique and Scotts Head’s Bay. Those who love a challenging hike will be thrilled to explore Dominica’s famous "World Wonder" and UNESCO World Heritage Site — the mysterious Boiling Lake & Valley of Desolation. (Update March 2021: currently closed due to landslides). Along the way you can soak in hot water pools and even have a sulphur mud facial. The hike is approximately 3 hours each way, up & down fairly steep hills (proceed with caution if afraid of heights).
For those who prefer ocean based activities, options abound! Divers will love exploring the beautiful coral and tropical fish found in Scotts Head Marine Reserve. Alternatively, you can explore the waters on a whale-watching trip. Dominica is the only country in the world where nearly 200 resident sperm whales live year-round, making your chances of seeing them in all their glory incredibly high.
Last but not least, you may instead opt for a unique bucket-list adventure: canyoning through some of the most spectacular gorges in the world! Jump into hidden pools with crystal clear water beneath the rain forest and descend into deep canyons carved from thousands of years of rainfall. Whether hiking through lush jungle or rappelling halfway down a rock to drop in the water below, your day is sure to be filled with the sound of cheers for every natural obstacle tackled! All are welcome — no training or experience is required for this epic excursion.
After a day filled with the activities you picked just for yourself, we’ll gather together again in the late afternoon for a Caribbean cooking class. Learn how to prepare local Caribbean cuisine full of organic vegetables, seasonal fruit, unique spices, eggs, fish, and more. Ingredients sourced directly from the property will likely be included in the recipes! A soothing evening yoga session awaits for those who’d like to partake, after which we’ll enjoy a special Farewell Dinner, once again packed with fresh flavors of culinary creativity.
DAY 6: DEPARTURE
You may depart from Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) at any time this day. Morning yoga and breakfast are available to you, after which your airport transportation will be arranged according to your flight time. If you’d like to add on more days to saturate yourself in this paradise, we can happily arrange extended days and activities - just ask!
TRIP PRICE
You'll be paired with a roommate of your same gender unless you request your own room.
$1795 per Person - double occupancy
+ $550 'My own room' option (subject to availability)
TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE:
$1795 per Person - double occupancy
+ $550 'My own room' option (subject to availability)
TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- International airfare
- Additional meals or activities not listed
- Alcohol, unless specified
- Required travel insurance