Finding Joy in Nature: Hike, Swim & Explore

With Alyssa Murdoch and Breanne Kemp

May 22 - 26, 2024

Date and Time Details:
Program begins: May 22
Program ends: May 26
Click here to view a sample program schedule.

Tuition: $650 CAD (4 Nights)

Rooms & Meals: Rates listed below include room, 3 meals per day, use of hot tubs, and campus facilities. Tuition not included.

Room Type Nightly Rate 4 Nights / 5 Days 5 Nights / 6 Days
Private ensuite $451 $1,806 $2,257.15
Private shared bathroom $366 $1,462 $1,828
Twin shared bathroom $270 $1,081 $1,351.63
Dorm $180 $720 $900

All bookings are subject to a 10% campus fee and applicable taxes. Click here for more room types and rates.

Scholarships : Hollyhock recognizes that economic opportunity is not currently equal for all; we encourage and welcome anyone registering for a program to apply for a scholarship. Scholarship applications are open. Click here to learn more and apply.

Terms & Conditions: You may find terms & conditions here.

  • Private Cabin Oceanfront – CAD $3,414.00
  • Single w/ensuite Oceanfront – CAD $2,614.00
  • Single w/ensuite – CAD $2,454.00
  • Single w/shared bathroom – CAD $2,114.00
  • Couple w/ensuite Oceanfront – CAD $4,096.00
  • Couple w/ensuite – CAD $3,780.00
  • Couple w/shared bathroom – CAD $3,464.00
  • Twin w/ensuite oceanfront – CAD $2,050.00
  • Twin w/ensuite – CAD $1,890.00
  • Twin w/shared bathroom – CAD $1,730.00
  • Three-share w/shared bathroom – CAD $1,566.00
  • Women Dorm – CAD $1,370.00
  • Male Dorm – CAD $1,370.00
  • Mixed Dorm – CAD $1,370.00
  • Tent Site Single – CAD $1,350.00
  • Tent Site Couple – CAD $2,500.00
  • Commuter – CAD $1,210.00
    • All Packages Include CAD $1,110.00 Tuition
Register now
Register now

Embark on a journey with Alyssa and Breanne to connect with your love of the outdoors and uncover your innate Naturalist spirit. Finding Joy in Nature beckons you to explore the enchanting landscapes of Cortes Island and immerse yourself in diverse ecosystems of conifer forests, rugged ocean shorelines, pristine lakes, lagoons, and bluffs. Join us as we hike, swim and explore the natural world with joy and curiosity as our guide. Let’s share knowledge in our collective passion for the natural world and learn from each other in a collaborative space of nature enthusiasts. Together we will reinvigorate our profound connection with the natural environment that surrounds us.

Extended Hiking Adventures: Unleash your curiosity as you embark on 2-6 hour hiking excursions through picturesque trails. Traverse steep and technical paths, encountering challenges that will connect you with the untamed beauty of Cortes Island.

Swimming and Cold Dipping: For water and swimming enthusiasts, seize the opportunity to swim or cold dip in the island’s refreshing waters. Whether it’s in the pristine freshwater of Hague Lake or the rich saltiness of Manson’s Lagoon. Let’s connect with the elements and experience the joy of embracing nature in its purest forms.

Naturalist Exploration: Awaken the naturalist within you! Engage in observation and reflection as you explore tidepools, identify flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the intricate ecosystems that make Cortes Island a haven for nature enthusiasts. We invite you to bring your favourite field guides and phone apps (such as iNaturalist and Merlin) as we explore and observe the landscape together. Let’s learn from each other and nourish the curiosity that resides in each of us.

Technical Disclaimers

  • Steep/Technical Trails: Be prepared for challenging terrain featuring large metal ladders, ropes to aid in navigating steep rocks, and trails with roots, rocks, gravel, wooden bridges and metal boardwalks. Our experienced guides are committed to providing a journey that is both safe and exhilarating.
  • Packing List: Equip yourself for the adventure with essentials such as a backpack, water, a towel, a packed lunch prepared by Hollyhock, field guides/identification books, and a journal/nature journal. Prepare to carry your day pack and any additional gear you may need for an extended exploration.

Find Joy in Nature and let Cortes Island be the canvas for your journey of exploration, joy, and connection with the natural world.

Only 12 spots are available in this program. Book now to secure your space!

Daily Schedule

A detailed schedule will be available at least 2 weeks in advance of the program. View sample schedule here.

About the Presenters

Alyssa Murdoch

Alyssa Murdoch demonstrates a profound love and connection with the outdoors and the environment that surrounds her, a sentiment that has helped shape her path in life. Having studied forestry and ecology at BCIT, she blends her academic knowledge with a hands-on commitment to the natural world. In her professional life, she has worked alongside […]

Learn more about Alyssa Murdoch

Breanne Kemp

Breanne Kemp has a background in Environmental Sciences and a passion for the natural world. Former lifeguard, swimming instructor and competitive swimmer, Breanne grew up in and around the water. Ontario cottage country is where she felt most at home, and after working as an Executive Assistant for much of her career, she left office […]

Learn more about Breanne Kemp

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