La Belle Cabane

La Belle Cabane Healing Sanctuary is a peaceful, 100% Indigenous-owned retreat set deep in the forest, designed for a real switch-off from day one. It’s less than 45 minutes from the Saint John ferry terminal, so it works really well as an atmospheric first or last night in New Brunswick, especially if you’d like something that feels a world away from the usual hotel stop.

There are just five small off-grid cabins scattered through the trees, each one intentionally simple and cosy. Cabins are compact, with a double bed up in a loft, a kitchenette for the basics, an indoor wood stove, and an outdoor grill for easy meals. You’re very much in nature here, which is part of the appeal, and it’s worth knowing there’s no WiFi, running water, plumbing or mains electricity in the cabins. Instead you’ll have solar lighting, a supply of water on arrival (with more available), an outhouse for each cabin, and communal bathrooms on site if you’d prefer.

The set-up is designed to feel like a sanctuary, and the walk in is part of that experience. From the car park it’s a short uphill hike of a few minutes to the first cabin, and up to around 12–15 minutes to reach the furthest one, so it’s best to pack with that in mind. Practical touches are covered too, with firewood included along with a battery lantern and a torch.

If you fancy adding something special, the private thermal spa pods are a real highlight (payable as an add-on). These are self-guided sessions where you can mix and match sauna time with hot and cold elements, rest on a heated stone bed, and finish in a salt room with infrared heat and halotherapy. Sessions are offered in set time slots through the day and evening, and it’s a lovely way to lean into the “healing sanctuary” feel of the place.