Sometimes the best weekend getaways are the ones that give you a moment to slow down and breathe. I’m all for adventure and a jam packed itinerary allowing me to see everything in a new destination, but that sort of travel can really burn me out. So when I planned an overnight stay at River Retreat in Kananaskis, Alberta for my fiance, Garrett and me, relaxation was at the top of mind. What I didn’t expect was to encounter some of the best hospitality and a setting that makes it impossible not to find a sense of stillness and peace. With a stunning location right on the banks of the Highwood River, it’s the kind of place where slowing down comes easily.
There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, Wander Woman Travel Magazine may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Related: 10 of the All Time Best Hikes in Kananaskis Country
Table of Contents
Arrival at River Retreat Kananaskis
When we first planned our stay at River Retreat Kananaskis, we assumed we would take our usual route into Kananaskis toward Canmore from Cochrane. But after plugging the directions into Google Maps, we realized River Retreat is located on the eastern edge of Kananaskis, in a much quieter foothills area. This took us on a peaceful drive through the countryside, passing small towns and open stretches of prairie before the landscape slowly shifted toward rolling foothills and river valley views. As we arrived at River Retreat, I instantly knew our stay was going to be exactly what I needed.
A Brand-New Cabin in the Woods
As we walked up the stairs to the main building, we were greeted by Jaxy. Jaxy and her husband, Todd, own River Retreat. She gave us a quick tour of the main building, including the common areas where dinner and breakfast are served, as well as a few of the rooms available for guests.
We were then shown to our cabin. My jaw dropped when I opened the door- every detail had been thoughtfully considered, and the space was even cozier than I had imagined. With a full kitchen, a wood-burning stove, and a loft area for a second bed, the cabin felt functional and incredibly inviting. Cozy blankets and robes were laid out for us and I could already picture us enjoying the fireplace with a glass of wine later that evening.
Staying on the Rivers Edge
There are three private cabins located on the property. We stayed in the Fisherman’s Peak cabin, which was just a few steps from the Highwood River. From the cozy front porch, we could hear the calming sound of the water, and we loved being able to sit on a small bench along the riverbank and simply take in the view with a warm cup of coffee. Even though there was still snow on the ground, the landscape felt peaceful and alive in a quiet, winter-to-spring kind of way.
The Kind of Hospitality You Don’t Forget
Aside from the stunning cabin and river views, what truly stood out to us was how thoughtful and kind the owner, Jaxy, was. It was clear how passionate she is about hospitality and ensuring each guest has a memorable experience at River Retreat.
We enjoyed a delicious meal she prepared for us, and she shared that she currently does all of the cooking herself, though she hopes to bring in a chef in the future as the retreat continues to grow. She also took the time to chat with us about the property and her vision, which made the experience feel even more personal.
A Place You Return to: River Retreat Kananaskis
As we headed back to our cozy cabin after dinner, a half-drunk bottle of red wine accompanied us. Garrett started a fire in the wood-burning stove, which had already been set up, all he had to do was light the kindling. We each poured a glass of wine and turned off our phones for the night.
With the fire crackling and the lights turned low, the atmosphere felt instantly relaxing, and we found ourselves sitting there chatting for a while. To finish off the night, we played a game of crib before getting ready for bed.
As we settled in, I felt a kind of peace I hadn’t experienced in a while- one that comes from disconnecting and simply spending time in nature. It was the kind of stillness that lingers with you long after you’ve gone home.
No Comments