Please fill out the form below, or email us at info@northpointretreat.com
North Point Retreat
Your True North Getaway
Our 3 offerings…
Cost Transparency
We believe that most people want to make purchasing decisions that positively impact them, other people, and our planet. One of the strongest influences you can have is through your personal spending decisions. Cost transparency allows you to make conscious and informed decisions about your spending choices.
By joining our retreats, you simply pay your fair share of what it costs to operate this magical island.
At this point, our retreats are priced to cover our operating cost.
- Rent Whole IslandFor groups, teams, or families up to 14
We boat or BYO Boats - JOYWeekend Retreats for WomenFor 7 to 10 women
June 12 - June 15, 2026
July 31 - August 3, 2026
August 14 - August 17, 2026 - CUSTOM RETREATSFor groups, families,
or teams up to 14
We boat or BYO Boats
Capacity
Rent the whole island for up to 14, and enjoy your own stunning private resort.
A perfect escape for extended families, groups of friends, or teams.
Sleeps 3 families with kids, or 5 couples, or 9 individuals.
Total 5 queen beds, 3 twin beds & a 2-twin-bed Yurt.
Maximum capacity 14, but there is flexibility, so contact us to discuss the size and composition of your party.
This island is truly one of the most spectacular natural places we have ever experienced, and any nature lover will likely feel the same way.
BOATING
We can boat your party to and from the island (extra charge). If we boat you, you unload your car by the docks in Minaki Marina, get your parking ticket at the store, and park your cars on the upper level.
Or you can bring your own boats (maximum 2 boats). You can launch your boats at the Minaki Marina as well.
CARETAKER & ORIENTATION
Caretaker/groundskeeper will provide an in-person orientation upon your arrival.
Caretaker might be on the island at any time, including staying overnight, and possibly during your entire stay. He will keep to himself.
If the caretaker is not there, you will be provided a phone number where you can reach the caretaker at any time in case you need any help.
RESTRICTIONS & CAUTIONS
Absolutely no wild parties or excessive noise!!!
Please no outside guests overnight.
Unfortunately, no pets are welcome on the island to protect wildlife and amenities.
Please no shoes in any indoor spaces. Bring your crocks or flip-flops for an easy transition.
You have to be OK with a wavy boat ride during parts of the trip if you come on a windy day.
We ask you don’t bring food to your cabins.
This is wild nature, so we don’t guarantee good weather.
Bugs are mostly not a huge bother on the island, but there are times bugs can be bothersome during some parts of the day.
Terrain on the island is in its original uneven state, so ability and caution is required. Your safety is your responsibility.
Always use a lamp or flashlight when walking on the island at night.
Stay away from the cliffs.
Swim only using the swimming buoys (provided).
RATES
Minimum rental is 3 nights
3-DAY WEEKEND $4,500 Plus GST
6-DAY WEEK $6,500 plus GST
Discount available for longer stays
Boating your party in and out is $700 plus GST
Contact us to discuss potential discounts
WEEKEND RETREATS FOR WOMEN
June 12 - July 15, 2026
July 31 - August 3, 2026
August 14 - August 17, 2026
What it is
JOY: A WEEKEND WELLNESS RETREAT FOR WOMEN is a unique immersive experience of stunning nature, life-enhancing wellness, creativity, self-reflection, delicious healthy food, light-hearted joyful activities, and great company.
These retreats are carefully designed to foster connection with yourself, others, and the elements, explore the role joy plays in your life, tap into your vitality, relax, rest, and renew, and of course recalibrate your compass.
And did we mention amazing healthy food by Chef Geni, your sweet host Jessica, the insane night sky, a sauna and hot tub, both with grand views, comfy cabins, and if you are lucky 360-degree sunsets and dancing northern lights.
During your three-night stay, you are free to follow your own schedule and inclinations, or let yourself be guided by our curated optional program. There is never any pressure to do anything. Hang out with others or choose to be solitary. Participate in retreat activities or spend the day lounging. It’s OK to just catch up on relaxation, reflection, sleep, and rest. It’s also OK to spend your day kayaking around the island, exploring nearby rock cliffs, swimming, steaming in the sauna, reading, writing, or doing whatever your heart desires.
This island – your home for the weekend – is truly one of the most spectacular natural places we have ever experienced.
We will only be hosting three of these retreats in 2026.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Stunning Canadian Shield nature unimpeded by light or sound pollution.
Delicious healthy food by Chef Geni.
An open-hearted, joyful, and experienced facilitator, Jessica.
Morning meditation (participation optional).
Women Wellness Circles to explore the role joy plays in your life with guided meditations, reflective exercises, journal prompts, and optional sharing circle (participation optional).
Other weather and mood-dependent creative and nature activities.
Cabins with amazing views, brand new comfy beds, and work desks.
Sauna and hot tub with insane views.
Comfortable shared amenities.
State-of-the-art Cinderella Norwegian incinerating toilets.
Great water for swimming.
Kayaks & paddle boards.
Electric boat rides and short excursions to nearby scenery and hikes (also optional and weather dependent).
Fun.
Total freedom to do whatever you want.
HOW DOES IT WORK
You arrive in Minaki, Ontario on Friday between 3pm – 5pm.
Minaki is a 2.5-hour drive from Winnipeg’s Eastern perimeter. Please leave Winnipeg early to give yourself plenty of time to arrive on time.
Unload your car down by the docks at the Minaki Marina, get your parking pass at the store, and park your car on the upper level.
We will then pick you up, and boat you to the island. The boat ride is about 12 minutes. On windy days, some parts of the boat ride may be wavy.
Upon arrival, you will have the chance to make yourself comfortable in your room, eat, and familiarise yourself with the island. There will be an island orientation and a brief welcome circle facilitated by your host Jessica.
On Saturday and Sunday, the scheduled activities (optional) include a morning meditation and a Women’s Wellness Circle where you explore the role JOY plays in your life.
To start the days off mindfully, the mornings before breakfast are silent to facilitate quiet contemplation.
Otherwise, the schedule is flexible and depends on the weather, group composition, and everyone’s mood. Other possible weather-dependent creative group activities (all optional), all focused around the topic of JOY, might include art-making, writing or reading gatherings, movement, and creative visualizations and emotional explorations.
But if the weather is good, outdoor activities (all optional) will likely take priority, like kayaking, paddle boarding, exploring the stunning nearby islands in electric boats, sauna or hot tub, wildlife watching, and so on.
Or you can just simply catch up on relaxation, reflection, sleep, and rest, and participate in nothing.
Departure is on Monday late morning after breakfast. Occasionally, participants decide to leave on Sunday night.
And of course if this retreat ends up not being for you, we would be happy to boat you to the marina at any time and issue you a refund.
YOUR FACILITATOR
This retreat is facilitated by Jessica Gonzalez, an experienced retreat facilitator, who has dedicated both her personal and professional life to the genuine exploration of how to live a joyous and meaningful life.
Jessica engages in daily contemplative practices that involve music, meditation, literature, stillness, the pursuit of beauty and knowledge, and immersion in nature. She studied at the University of Toronto and has completed two master’s degrees, one in literature at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands and another in Gestalt Therapy, in Amsterdam through Middlesex University, London.
Jessica has attended various retreats around the world, including Esalen, Plum Village, and the Humaniversity, and has facilitated Circles of Reconciliation groups in Winnipeg and True You Retreats in Winnipeg and at North Point Retreat. She speaks English, Spanish, Dutch, and French fluently. Jessica has been a practicing psychotherapist for over 20 years.
Jessica believes that the key to personal and relational well-being is a self-aware, whole, and open-hearted individual. Together with her husband Darek, a psychologist, Jessica is currently raising a tribe of spirited children.
YOUR CHEF
Chef Geni is what the talk is all about at North Point Retreat. For each retreat, we ask people about their food preferences and restrictions, and then Chef Geni designs a magical menu that is unlikely to disappoint even the most refined connoisseurs.
YOUR STAFF
Jessica’s husband Darek and Geni’s husband Sean will be on the island to help with boating, cooking, and maintenance. Otherwise, they will not be a part of any retreat activities.
RATES
Our all-inclusive rates include boating, accommodation, food & retreat activities.
NORTH & EAST CABIN
$1,500 plus GST – Single Occupancy (queen bed)
$2,400 plus GST – Double Occupancy (sharing a queen bed with a friend)
SOUTH CABIN
$1,200 plus GST – Single Occupancy (twin bed)
YURT
$1,200 plus GST – Single Occupancy (2 twin beds – the yurt is all yours)
$2,000 plus GST – Double Occupancy (2 twin beds – sharing the yurt)
The cost of the retreat only covers our operating costs, but if the price is prohibitive to you, please give us a shout and we will see what we can do.
Registration
To register or ask us a question, please submit your INQUIRY and let us know about yourself and your interest in JOY.
RESTRICTIONS & CAUTION
We will provide boat transportation to and from the island. You have to be OK with a wavy boat ride during parts of the trip if you come on a windy day.
No pets are allowed on the island to protect wildlife.
There will be plenty of food with round-the-clock access. So you don’t have to bring any food, unless you have special requirements.
There are no fridges in the rooms and eating in the cabins is discouraged.
We will be in the embrace of mother nature, and we will tailor the activities to the weather.
Bugs are mostly not a huge issue outdoors, but there are times when bugs can be bothersome during some parts of the day. We will have bug sprays.
SCHEDULE
Note that any activities in this schedule are purely optional. You can do whatever you feel like at any time during the weekend.
FRIDAY
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm … We will pick you up from the marina. Please do not arrive late. If you are driving from Winnipeg, please leave by 1pm at the latest to make sure you arrive on time, in case you hit heavy traffic
5:00 pm … Settle in, eat
6:00 pm … Orientation & Introductory Wellness Circle for Women (JOY)
7:00 pm … Open – Head out in electric boats, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, soaking in the hot tub, sauna, or just quietly unwinding are some of our preferred ways of starting the weekend
SATURDAY
Please observe silence until breakfast
7:00 – 8:00 … Open – Feel free to have coffee, juice, or snack
8:30 – 9:15 … Meditation circle (WATER)
9:15 – 10:00 … Open – Feel free to have coffee or juice
10:30 – 11:30 … Breakfast
11:45 – 1:45 … Wellness Circle for Women (JOY)
1:45 – 2:45 … Open – Feel free to have coffee, juice, or snacks
2:45 – 5:00 … Weather-dependent activities (feel free to do whatever you like)
5:00 – 6:15 … Dinner
6:15 – on … Weather-dependent activities (feel free to do whatever you like)
SUNDAY
Please observe silence until breakfast
7:00 – 8:00 … Open – Feel free to have coffee, juice, or snacks
8:30 – 9:15 … Meditation circle (STONE)
9:15 – 10:00 … Open – Feel free to have coffee or juice
10:30 – 11:30 … Breakfast
11:45 – 1:45 … Wellness Circle for Women (JOY)
1:45 – 2:45 … Open – Feel free to have coffee, juice, or snack
2:45 – 5:00 … Weather-dependent activities (feel free to do whatever you like)
5:00 – 6:15 … Dinner
6:15 – 9:00 … Weather-dependent activities (feel free to do whatever you like)
9:00 – 11:00 … Social gathering
MONDAY
8:00 – 11:00 … Coffee, tea, juice, food
11:00 – 12:00 … Drop off at the marina
or teams up to 14
First Steps
Step 1: Organize you group, team, or family of up to 14.
Step 2: Let’s design together your dream retreat.
WHO IS THIS FOR
Any groups, teams, or families (e.g., groups of friends, business or executive teams, work colleagues, interest groups, tiny weddings, wellness groups, sports or hobby groups, fishermen, spiritual communities, church groups, extended families).
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS
Let’s design a dream retreat for your team, group, or family. Possibilities are endless.
- We can shuttle your entire party to the island and back to the marina.
- We can provide boat and boat driver for your party.
- Chef Geni can cook you spectacular and healthy food of your choice.
- We can provide custom wellness for you group, team, or family.
We will consult with you to design your dream custom retreat, which may include your own cook, boat and driver, and expert wellness facilitator. Possible activities include team-building activities, wellness or growth circles, effective communication workshops, various mindfulness activities, meditation circles, arts and crafts activities, creative writing or journaling, karaoke nights, electric boat rides, excursions to the beach, exploration of amazing nearby cliffs, hot and cold experiences, and whatever else you can dream of.
This island is truly one of the most spectacular natural places we have ever experienced, and any nature lover will likely feel the same way.
Contact us to discuss endless possibilities & custom prices.
Our Featured Videos…
An Island Sanctuary
North Point Retreat is a stunning small island in the heart of the legendary Canadian Shield country. Located at the edge of civilization, in the middle of a large lake, this island feels like a cruise ship sailing towards an endless horizon.
With the sky unimpeded by city lights and only the sounds of nature, this is one of the cutest small resorts around, a true north Canadian jewel that will help you relax and rest, connect with your inner self, others, and the elements, reflect and renew, and of course recalibrate your compass.
Capacity
Sleeps 3 families with kids, or 5 couples, or 9 individuals.
Maximum capacity is 14, but we might have some flexibility so contact us to discuss the composition and size of your party.
Amenities
Cedar sauna with a grand view
Luxury wood-fired tub
Firepit circle with cedar benches
Starlink internet
Cell connection is good except in the main cabin
Fully equipped kitchen
Pressure cooker
Drip coffee maker
Two large fridges with freezers
Propane stove
Large outdoor griddle
Microwave
Two bathrooms
Two showers
Two Norwegian incinerating toilets (amazing toilets)
Outdoor fish washing station
Solar power
Propane heating
Kayaks
Paddle boards
Electric boats for lazy cruises
Life jackets
Swimming buoys
Telescope
Yamaha keyboard
Large bluetooth speaker
No laundry or dryer available
Features
All rooms have spectacular views
All rooms are very cozy & comfortable
Beds and beddings are new and comfy
All cabins have space heaters, except the microcabins as they are very small and well-insulated
All bedrooms have blinds for restful sleep
Island has a 360 majestic view
There’s no sound or light pollution
Quiet with sounds of nature only
Grandiose sunsets
Stunning night sky
Frequent northern lights
Beautiful Canadian Shield cliffs
Pristine clean water for swimming
Best fishing in North America
Intimate contact with the elements
Infinite places to explore by water
Beautiful nearby islands and granite cliffs
How to get to the island
Minaki, Ontario is located only 2.5-hours drive from Winnipeg’s perimeter.
The boat ride to the island, which we can provide, takes about 12 minutes.
Our Mission…
Our mission at North Point Retreat is to provide a safe, supportive, and beautiful space for people to come together to participate in activities that promote well-being, connection, and joy.
Cabins and Amenities…

Bedrooms
Bedroom 1: 2 queen beds
Bedroom 2: 1 queen bed
Bedroom 3: 1 queen bed
Bedroom 4: 1 queen bed
Bedroom 5: 1 queen bed
Bedroom 6: 1 twin bed
Bedroom 7: 1 twin bed
Bedroom 8: 1 twin bed
Restrictions & Caution
No outside guests are allowed on the island overnight.
Pets are not allowed on the island to protect wildlife and amenities.
We ask that no outdoor shoes be used indoors at any time. Please bring slippers or crocks for an easy transition.
No loud noise at any time please.
Absolutely no wild parties! No excessive use of alcohol or substances. Caretaker will be on the island, and violation will result in immediate termination of the rental contract. This is especially important for your safety reasons (cliffs, deep water, and uneven terrain).
Young children require close supervision at all times. There are some dangerous cliffs on the island that children must stay away from.
Any time you use our wood-burning sauna or hot tub, please designate one person to be responsible for closely watching the fire. It is especially important on windy days.
The island’s paths and cliffs are in their original wild state, so ability, balance, and caution are required to navigate this ancient terrain. Your safety is your responsibility.
The openness of the island means that sometimes winds are high, and waves can be wild.
Generally, bugs are not a huge bother on the island, but as it is in nature, there are periods when bugs can be bothersome. Bring your bug repellent.
Finally, because of the absence of light pollution, the milky way might overwhelm you with its beauty. And the northern lights, which frequently make an appearance, might make you want to stay up late into the night.
This island is truly one of the most spectacular natural places we have ever experienced, and any nature lover will likely feel the same way.
in case of emergencies
Your location is 50°02’37.5″N 94°41’18.7″W
The nearest hospital is located in Kenora, 40 minutes drive from the marina. The boat ride to the marina is about 12 minutes.
Our Cabins…
Bdr 1: Main Cabin West
Our largest bedroom. Two queen beds. Max 4 people.
Bdr 2: North Cabin Dock
Our second largest bedroom. Queen bed. Max 2 people.
Bdr 3: North Cabin Pines
A small but comfy bedroom. Queen bed. Max 2 people.
Bdr 4: East Cabin Lake
A small but comfy bedroom. Queen bed. Max 2 people. East cabin also has a small living room.
Bdr 5: East Cabin Pine
A small bedroom. Queen bed. Max 2 people. No view. East cabin also has a small living room.
Bdr 6: South Cabin Left
A very small but comfy micro-cabin. Our take on minimalism. Twin bed. Max 1 person.
Bdr 7: South Cabin Middle
A very small but comfy micro-cabin. Because it can’t be any smaller. Twin bed. Max 1 person.
Bdr 8: South Cabin Right
A very small but comfy micro-cabin. Just the way Buddha would like it. Twin bed. Max 1 person.
Our Amenities…
Open Concept
Fully equipped kitchen with a table for 10. Latte Go. Outdoor grill and griddle. (There is also a large outdoor table.) Living room with sofa and chairs. Optional circle with comfy meditation chairs. No TV.
Cedar Sauna
With enough space to comfortably fit six, tightly eight, this wood-burning piece of art is likely the cutest sauna you have ever used.
Cedar Hot Tub
A luxury wood-burning hot tub for six.
Main Bathroom
A shower, washing sink, and world’s best eco incenerating toilet Cinderella. There is a total of two shared toilets on the island.
Second Toilet
Cedar bathroom with the cutest incinerating toilet you have ever seen. There is a total of two shared toilets on the island.
Outdoor Shower
A sheltered cedar outdoor shower is the alternative to the main bathroom shower. Nobody will see you, but you can see them.
Outdoor Washing Station
An alternative to the main bathroom, a sheltered washing station with two sinks and mirrors. There is also an additional outdoor sink to wash your fish.
Watercrafts
Kayaks, paddle boards, and two electric boats.
Firepit
Firepit with cedar benches. Note that fires are often restricted.
Granite Cliffs
The island has several cliffs you can jump from. Some other cliffs are dangerous and to be avoided.
Solar and Propane
Electricity is provided by the sun. Heat and cooking is propane.
Granite Gallery
Granite rock crystalized into its current form about two billion years ago. Nearby cliffs, reveal beautiful glimpses of that ancient process, creating the oldest art gallery on Earth.
FOUNDERS AND HOSTS…

Darek and Jessica had a vision to create a small, cozy, and comfortable resort in the remote Canadian Shield wilderness to share their joy of being in this stunning part of the world.
Darek built this retreat center with his own hands, and generous help from numerous professionals and friends. He gave full attention to every small design detail to make this place as stunning and enjoyable as it could be.
Darek and Jessica are both psychotherapists. They have both dedicated their personal and professional lives to the genuine exploration of how to heal emotional wounds and live joyous and meaningful lives. They have been husband and wife for over ten years, and their journey towards one another has been their greatest teacher.
Both Darek and Jessica have deep reflective personal practices in their everyday life that involve music, meditation, literature, stillness, pursuit of beauty and knowledge, and immersion in nature.