LIVING > The Rise of Digital Detox Retreats in Canada
Unplug to Reconnect: The Rise of Digital Detox Retreats in Canada
In a world where our lives are measured in notifications, pings, and endless scrolls, the idea of willingly stepping away from our devices sounds almost revolutionary. Yet that’s exactly what more Canadians are choosing to do. Digital detox retreats — experiences where guests are asked (or required) to unplug from smartphones, tablets, and laptops — are rapidly growing in popularity across the country.
Why the Rise?
The reasons are clear: Burnout is at an all-time high. The average person spends over three hours a day on their phone, and studies show that constant digital engagement increases stress, anxiety, and feelings of disconnection — not connection.
Pop culture has caught onto the need for real escape too. HBO’s White Lotus captured our obsession with luxurious getaways — but also exposed how bringing all our digital baggage along can sabotage even the most beautiful destinations. Real peace isn’t just about booking a five-star resort anymore; it’s about unplugging enough to actually enjoy it.
Retreats offering a no-devices policy promise something rare: presence. Space to breathe, to notice the world around you, to reconnect with yourself or your loved ones without the pull of a glowing screen. Instead of curated selfies and viral videos, guests are invited to enjoy nature, mindfulness practices, outdoor adventures, communal meals, and real conversations.
And Canadians are ready. Across the country, resorts and retreats are embracing this shift, encouraging guests to leave their devices behind and reclaim their attention.
Canadian Retreats Leading the Digital Detox Movement
1. Ecolodge at Algonquin Park (Ontario)
Nestled in the forests on the edge of Algonquin Park, this off-grid lodge offers no Wi-Fi, no cell service, and no electricity in guest rooms. Guests are invited to hike, canoe, and relax by candlelight. The lodge’s very remoteness is its luxury.
2. Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort (Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia)
Located along the Atlantic coast, Cabot Shores offers an unplugged experience rooted in nature. Guests stay in yurts, domes, or chalets and are encouraged to take part in kayaking, nature walks, and community bonfires. Wi-Fi is available only in the main lodge — and even then, it's limited.
3. Le Monastère des Augustines (Québec City, Quebec)
A historic monastery turned wellness retreat, Le Monastère encourages silent retreats and mindful stays. Guests can choose a "complete silence" package, where the use of devices is discouraged to allow for introspection and meditation in this stunning 17th-century setting.
4. Hollyhock Retreat Centre (Cortes Island, British Columbia)
This famed West Coast retreat is known for its transformational workshops — and for encouraging guests to step away from digital distractions. Surrounded by beaches and forest, Hollyhock is designed to help people reconnect with nature, community, and creativity.
5. Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat & Health Spa (Ainsworth, British Columbia)
Mountain Trek has a strict digital detox policy. Upon arrival, guests hand in their devices for safekeeping. The result? Deeper sleep, better social engagement, and a truly restorative week of hiking, yoga, fitness, and nutrition workshops, all set in the spectacular Kootenays.
6. Northern Edge Algonquin (South River, Ontario)
This eco-retreat deep in the Algonquin wilderness offers purposeful unplugging. With limited solar-powered Wi-Fi (used only for emergencies), the focus is on canoeing, paddleboarding, forest therapy, and community building. Guests report feeling “recalibrated” after just a few days offline.
More Than a Trend — A Necessity
Digital detox retreats aren't just a luxury experience anymore; they are becoming a necessary remedy for modern life. A weekend without emails, doomscrolling, or status updates can do wonders for creativity, relationships, mental health — and your soul.
As Canadian retreat owners have realized, true luxury isn't high-speed internet — it's the ability to slow down and reconnect with what matters most.
Because if White Lotus taught us anything, it’s that the most breathtaking views don’t mean much when you're trapped behind a screen.
Maybe it’s time to ask yourself:
When was the last time you were truly present?
Related Articles
The Rise of the Food & Travel Vlogger
The Art of Becoming: Sculpting Your Identity
How to Destroy Negative Thoughts
The Ageless Rocker: Keeping the Fires Burning