When it comes to out-of-the-box incentive travel destinations, Canada often comes out on top — and for good reason. The country boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes, luxurious accommodations and legendary experiences on the planet. And to help discover the best that Canada has to offer, Destination Canada has curated a collection of incentive experiences, called the Canadian Signature Incentive Experience Collection. Here’s a look at a handful of the transformative experiences that align with the key themes in incentive travel: adventure, taste, culture, heritage and wellness. (Photo top of post by Maurice Li, Destination Canada)
Adventure: Climb the iron way
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of taking in jaw-dropping panoramas from a mountain peak that you’ve reached on your own steam. That’s possible with Via Ferrata, a system of iron ladders, cables and a suspension bridge secured to a mountain rock face. This transformative experience is offered in British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec. Simply gear up with a helmet, boots and harness to get your guided vertical alpine adventure underway — then take in the stunning views as you reward your team’s achievements with a champagne toast at the peak. (Photo: Canyon Sainte-Anne)
Taste: A gourmet seaside retreat
Nova Scotia is known for peaceful shores and delicious seafood. Give your superstars the chance to taste it all at Fox Harb’r Resort, which offers a variety of unique sea-to-table culinary experiences. Through Lobster 101, top achievers are welcomed to Lighthouse Point, where they will gather for an informative session with a chef that covers how to choose, cook and crack a lobster. That’s followed by the main event: a classic lobster boil and al fresco dining on the elegant waterfront terrace. As another option, celebrate your team with an exclusive ocean-side gourmet dinner at the Fox Harb’r Estate vineyard that includes award-winning wines and a delicious locally-sourced menu. (Photo: Kamil Bialous, Destination Canada)
Culture: Experience the liveliness of a shed party
The five-star Fogo Island Inn, located just off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a once-in-a-lifetime incentive reward. The inn itself is architecturally stunning, and there are several curated experiences that shine a light on the province’s unique culture, including nature hikes, sightseeing cruises and of course, the traditional “shed parties.” With the latter, local sheds are transformed into pop-up party venues that provide the perfect opportunity to sing, eat, dance and celebrate with your group. From enjoying local cuisine and sampling Newfoundland Screech Rum to listening to traditional music, this is a truly authentic Atlantic Canada experience. (Photo: Megan McLellan, Destination Canada)
Heritage: Indulge in a ceremonial feast
Celebrate a year of accomplishments with your team at the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, British Columbia. Begin your celebration with a feast inspired by First Nations culinary tradition, which includes freshly baked Bannock bread, steamed clams and mouthwatering wild salmon — and then watch as dancers perform a colourful dance and elders offer a warm blessing. This is a celebration that will long be remembered by your group. (Photo: Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre / Logan Swayze)
Wellness: A wild retreat
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, located off the west coast of Vancouver Island, is at once remote and refined. After taking a scenic 45-minute seaplane flight, your team will check in to their luxuriously appointed canvas tents along the water’s edge. During their stay, they have the chance to reconnect with one another and create lasting memories as they take part in a series of nature-based adventures, such as therapeutic forest bathing through the rainforests and paddling the pristine marine environment. (Photo: Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge)