Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa

1972 Myra Rd, Porters Lake, Nova Scotia B3E 1H2 Canada

View prices for your travel dates

Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Did you already book this hotel?

About

4.0
#1 of 2 campsites in Porters Lake
Location
Service
Value
Luxury Geodesic Domes Open Now. Nordic Spa currently under construction.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Yoga classes
Hot bath
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Boating
Canoeing
Spa
Wifi
Heated pool
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Hiking
Board games / puzzles
Full body massage
Head massage
Massage
Neck massage
Adults only
BBQ facilities
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Room features
Blackout curtains
Air purifier
Air conditioning
Additional bathroom
Dining area
Fireplace
Coffee / tea maker
Walk-in shower
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Seating area
Separate dining area
Separate living room
Sofa
Bottled water
Private bathrooms
Kitchenette
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
8Reviews0Q+A3Room tips
Traveller rating
  • 6
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 2
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
  • Filter
  • English
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
Gobs Z wrote a review Jan 2024
I've travelled across Canada and can say that Porters Lake has to be one of the most beautiful parts of the country. The views thoughtfully framed for us when we arrived at Nalu were just the beginning of a wonderful experience. It was the stress relief my partner and I badly needed. peaceful, quiet, gorgeous, perfect. A fire pit and hot tub just for us, right beside our dome. Loved it! The owners were very quick to answer any questions we had. We really appreciated all of the details too. Local art and prepared foods. This was during the beginning of the cold season so I feel it's helpful to mention that the dome was always comfy and warm inside. We took advantage of the offered massages, and really appreciated that being available. I will most definitely be back as soon as possible and have been recommending the place to everyone I know.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sandy P wrote a review Jan 2024
A peaceful, luxurious getaway! Every detail was well planned and we had all the amenities we needed to make our stay comfortable and memorable. We were thrilled with the domes, the view of Porters Lake, soaking in the hot tub of our private deck and chilling out in the 2 person bean bag chair in the star gazing loft watching the stars. Highly recommend! We’ll be back :)
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Bring your hiking shoes because next door is Crowbar Trail, a fantastic hike!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Paul Peic, Marketing at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa
Responded Jan 8, 2024
Thank you for the great review. We look forward to hosting you again soon.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tony H wrote a review Jan 2024
Toronto, Canada
Our stay at Nalu Retreat was breathtaking, peaceful and relaxing from the moment we arrived.
We watched the stars while enjoying the firepit and hot tub.
In the morning, we had a nice cup of tea and coffee, chilled and enjoyed the view.
As for food, we recommend you to order the meals before arriving.
We recommend the charcuterie board, lasagna and carrot cake. (chef's kiss)
Can’t wait to return. Will def be an annual getaway for us.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Pre order your meals.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Paul Peic, Marketing at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa
Responded Jan 8, 2024
Hi Anthony, thank you for choosing to stay with us and for the great review. We are happy you enjoyed your stay with us. The lasagna from Lupin Dinning is one of our favourites! Looking forward to hosting you both again soon.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
blackfish2017 wrote a review Jan 2024
Kata Beach, Thailand
What a magical place! We didn't know where Porters Lake was, and were pleasantly surprised by its beauty and proximity to Halifax. Quiet, luxurious and well kept domes, definitely the best we've stayed in. We will be back soon! Thankj you for creating such a healing place.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: The staff was incredibly accommodating. They called to let us now that our dome was ready...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maha H wrote a review Jan 2024
Nalu provided an exceptional experience. The domes are stunning... peaceful and serene setting. The views very stunning, enjoyed seeing the wildlife.

Highly recommend to anyone looking for something unique.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh B wrote a review Jan 2024
Simply put, Nalu is way overpriced for what you get. The place seems built to look good on Instagram as opposed to providing guests with the experience they pay for. Before booking, you may wish to consider the following:

- Despite charging exorbitant prices, there is not a single staff person on site

- You are expected to wash your own dishes

- If you order one of their frozen dinners, don't expect to enjoy it that night. Ours was frozen solid in our fridge at 7:00pm, despite clear instructions to allow it to thaw over night

- If you'd like to enjoy a spa experience, don't hold your breath. We looked weeks in advance, and there was nothing available

- Don't trust what's on their website. The site references a "luxury glamping dome" in addition to their three domes (doesn't exist), an outdoor cold shower "for a mini Nordic spa experience" (the cold shower was taken out), and the business is called "Nalu Retreat & Nordic Spa" (there is no Nordic Spa)

- Don't expect to be able to check-in before 4:00pm. If you enjoy sleeping in while on vacation, too bad. Check-out time is 10:00am.

- If anything doesn't work as intended, you'll be on your own. Our outdoor propane fire pit wasn't working. When I called to have it fixed, I was asked to go underneath the deck and fix it myself. When someone eventually showed up 30 minutes later, they couldn't fix it either.

- Don't trust what the staff tell you. When we expressed our disappointment to the staff who did eventually show up to try to fix our broken fire pit, we were kindly offered a full unconditional refund, which the owner later denied.

Stay away! You can pay way less and enjoy a much better experience at plenty of other locations in Nova Scotia.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Paul Peic, Marketing at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa
Responded Jan 23, 2024
It’s unfortunate that you feel this way. All relevant details are clearly outlined on our website, including information about our Nordic day spa, currently under construction. Our farm-to-table meals are prepared, fresh frozen, and stored in your fridge for thawing upon check-in. During your arrival, our staff personally explained the thawing process. We however hope you enjoyed the meal, showcasing the culinary skills of the Chef from Lupin Dining. Regarding treatments, there were no scheduled massages or treatments. Simply book a date that massages were not fully booked if this was desired. Our team of healers specializes in various modalities and it's unfortunate you were not able to experience this. Our professionally designed luxury domes offer identical amenities, including a hot tub, propane fire pit, BBQ, Muskoka chairs, and a seasonal outdoor shower. The well-stocked kitchen includes plates, pots/pans, cutlery, complimentary local roaster coffee, tea, agave, honey, Perrier, spring water, oat milk and complimentary Rousseau Chocolates. The professionally designed living area boasts a wide panoramic window with breathtaking views of Porters Lake, fireplace, and a queen-size bed adorned with luxurious linens. The spa-inspired bathroom is includes Turkish towels, custom-made soaps, essential oil diffuser, robes, and slippers. Additional features include a stargazing/yoga loft with a retractable skylight, yoga mats, umbrella, puzzles, games, spiritual books, and meditation poofs. Various healing frequency instruments, such as singing bowls and nature sound machines. For communal enjoyment, there's a shared fire pit with fire starter, firewood, and kindling. The listing's mention of the "luxury glamping dome" serves as a placeholder for an all-inclusive spa experience, encompassing massages and meals. Our website details all offerings, and a pre-arrival check-in email includes comprehensive explanations and a walkthrough video. Our standard check-in time is 4 pm, and we strive to accommodate guests as soon as the domes are prepared. Readiness depends on the previous guest's departure condition (dishes ;), including cleaning the dome, hot tub, and any requests for early or late checkouts. Each booking has an inexpensive option for both early and late checkouts. The faulty outdoor fire pit was the result of a controller issue, now rectified. It is regrettable that such an incident occurred, but this doesn't justify mistreatment of our staff, & disregard for other guests or our dome policies. It’s shameful to see attempts to defame an independent locally owned business as a result of some minor inconvenience. The owners poured their heart and soul into creating this retreat, a refuge for people to embrace and savor nature's healing energy. It's unfortunate that the choice was made to escalated a straightforward incident, preventing the magical experience that is Nalu Retreat. As a small business, we actively encourage guests to share their feedback. We extend discounts to returning guests, as well as to nurses, military, police, and firefighters. Among the many guests welcomed at Nalu Retreat, it's very rare for us to consider asking a guest to depart in exchange for a full refund, as occurred during your stay. Regrettably, your presence created an uncomfortable atmosphere for our staff and other guests seeking to enjoy the retreat positively. Despite extending a refund offer if you chose to depart, your decision to stay, perhaps in consideration of your state at the time, was respected. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our guests remains our top priority. For anything that was beyond our control, we do apologize for any inconvenience and regardless of this negative outcome, we wish you health and positivity for 2024 and truly wish this had ended differently.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sara S wrote a review Jan 2024
Upon my husband purchasing me a $50 gift certificate for Mother's Day, 2023, based on the advertised Nordic Spa (which was all we wanted to do) opening in late 2022/early 2023 (and that their website, as of January 17, 2024, still says). He made multiple calls between May and December as t0 when we could be accommodated - in other words, when the Nordic Spa would actually be open. As of December 2023, in conversation with the owner, Paul, it was told to us that the Spa was still under construction. As such, we were offered to stay in a dome for $200 MORE (and this was a discounted rate) than my original gift (which they could never have provided for). As our money and time is valuable, we hesitated, but decided to do it as a holiday getaway. in this making this decision, we had an expection that the amenities advertised would be available. Upon arrival, with self-check, we realized is not the case. I won't even go into our individual experience (my husband covers those in his review) but just going to basics of what they say is offered, according to their Trip Advisor listing, I say the following facts:
Free Parking (true); Hot Bath (what does this even mean? there is not bath, only stand-up shower in the dome); Complimentary Instant Coffee (note, INSTANT, yum); Canoeing (where??? the lake is down a dirt road hill, across a main road and seems to be only deeded access to people who own property on the lake - but they'll likely tell you this is 'seasonal'); Wifi (intermittent, at best - much of the time it's down); Complimentary Tea (great, for $300-500 a night, this should not be a 'treat'); Outdoor dining (hmmm? there is no dining room/kitchen/main building, where is this 'outdoor dining'?); Hiking (oh! they must mean the gravel road to the maintenance shed, ok, sure); Full body message, and all other messages they claim are available (we tried to book weeks in advance ...nothing was ever available and, if you go to the website now, I'd be shocked if you can actually book anything - friends tried ... it takes you to a dead link); Adults only (YES! this is true); Yoga Classes (again, on the gravel driveway??? there are no yoga classes); Boating (wow! they do a lot on this gravel driveway since there's no water access), Spa (HA!), Heated Pool (don't get me started ... is this reference to the smallest 2 person hot tub that is on the deck? - there is no pool, heated or not); Complimentary Welcome Drink (plain and simple - there's no staff, there's no welcome, there's no drink); Special Diet menu (a frozen solid dinner that you'll pay $34 for and then wonder how you're supposed to cook it at 7pm); Board games ... hmmm (don't care).
To be clear, this doesn't even address the issues we had while we were there, with the minimal amenities they do have.
The owner has also since borderline harrassed us since my husband posted an honest review on Trip Advisor (actually phoned my husband within 15 minutes of the posting, even though it was 3 days later and multiple emails and conversations in between). This includes trying to insinuate we were wasted AND that he asked us to leave (which, why would you encourage guests who you feel are highly under the influence to be forced to drive at least 45 minutes down dark back roads and highways to the nearest accommodation? But that aside ....
OH! and there's Nordic Spa (as advertised) "under construction"....there's no evidence of that, ANYWHERE. When we asked about it, we were told it's actually on another property across the main road and down aways ... when my husband asked if we could walk there to check it out, the answer was 'well, I think a tree has fallen on that path, so it's probably not passable' - take from that whatever interpretation you want ... ours is 'there's not construction happening anywhere', based on all other misleading evidence.
Take away, if you've never spent money doing anything outside of your home and think this will be an amazing experience, then go for it. But if you're like most of the adult population and know value for a dollar and time, seek out the plethora of other wonderful and value for money experiences you can have across Nova Scotia.

More
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Paul Peic, Marketing at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa
Responded Jan 23, 2024
It’s unfortunate that you feel this way. All relevant details are clearly outlined on our website, including information about our Nordic day spa, currently under construction. Our farm-to-table meals are prepared, fresh frozen, and stored in your fridge for thawing upon check-in. During your arrival, our staff personally explained the thawing process. We however hope you enjoyed the meal, showcasing the culinary skills of the Chef from Lupin Dining. Regarding treatments, there were no scheduled massages or treatments. Simply book a date that massages were not fully booked if this was desired. Our team of healers specializes in various modalities and it's unfortunate you were not able to experience this. Our professionally designed luxury domes offer identical amenities, including a hot tub, propane fire pit, BBQ, Muskoka chairs, and a seasonal outdoor shower. The well-stocked kitchen includes plates, pots/pans, cutlery, complimentary local roaster coffee, tea, agave, honey, Perrier, spring water, oat milk and complimentary Rousseau Chocolates. The professionally designed living area boasts a wide panoramic window with breathtaking views of Porters Lake, fireplace, and a queen-size bed adorned with luxurious linens. The spa-inspired bathroom is includes Turkish towels, custom-made soaps, essential oil diffuser, robes, and slippers. Additional features include a stargazing/yoga loft with a retractable skylight, yoga mats, umbrella, puzzles, games, spiritual books, and meditation poofs. Various healing frequency instruments, such as singing bowls and nature sound machines. For communal enjoyment, there's a shared fire pit with fire starter, firewood, and kindling. The listing's mention of the "luxury glamping dome" serves as a placeholder for an all-inclusive spa experience, encompassing massages and meals. Our website details all offerings, and a pre-arrival check-in email includes comprehensive explanations and a walkthrough video. Our standard check-in time is 4 pm, and we strive to accommodate guests as soon as the domes are prepared. Readiness depends on the previous guest's departure condition (dishes ;), including cleaning the dome, hot tub, and any requests for early or late checkouts. Each booking has an inexpensive option for both early and late checkouts. The faulty outdoor fire pit was the result of a controller issue, now rectified. It is regrettable that such an incident occurred, but this doesn't justify mistreatment of our staff, & disregard for other guests or our dome policies. It’s shameful to see attempts to defame an independent locally owned business as a result of some minor inconvenience. The owners poured their heart and soul into creating this retreat, a refuge for people to embrace and savor nature's healing energy. It's unfortunate that the choice was made to escalated a straightforward incident, preventing the magical experience that is Nalu Retreat. As a small business, we actively encourage guests to share their feedback. We extend discounts to returning guests, as well as to nurses, military, police, and firefighters. Among the many guests welcomed at Nalu Retreat, it's very rare for us to consider asking a guest to depart in exchange for a full refund, as occurred during your stay. Regrettably, your presence created an uncomfortable atmosphere for our staff and other guests seeking to enjoy the retreat positively. Despite extending a refund offer if you chose to depart, your decision to stay, perhaps in consideration of your state at the time, was respected. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our guests remains our top priority. For anything that was beyond our control, we do apologize for any inconvenience and regardless of this negative outcome, we wish you health and positivity for 2024 and truly wish this had ended differently.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Camper04565187114 wrote a review Jan 2024
We stayed at Nalu Retreat in the middle of December so this review is a couple of weeks late but we’ve been travelling quite a bit. I wanted to share our experience.

We were in Halifax and someone told us if we have a few extra days we should go to Porters Lake and check out Nalu Retreat. So we did for two days and my goodness what an amazing experience!  Firstly, what is amazing is the location. When we arrived, Paul, who is the owner, greeted us, took our bags and walked us into our domes. He spent 10 minutes showing us all aspects of the domes including where we could find everything. As for the domes, my goodness, the luxury was something we never expected. A full kitchen, full bathroom, a super comfortable bed, and all the little amenities that I wouldn’t expect this place would have, but they had it.

But the best part was my wife and I were able to connect, unplug, and just relax. An added bonus was using the outdoor hot tub in the middle of the winter. We also took advantage of the massage treatments. It was worth it.

But again, it was great to just relax. We plan on coming back in the in the summer. Thank you Nalu for an amazing experience.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
No results found.Try changing or clearing your search to read questions and answers.
blackfish2017 wrote a tip Jan 2024
Kata Beach, Thailand1 contribution1 helpful vote
"The staff was incredibly accommodating. They called to let us now that our dome was ready earlier. We got to enjoy Nalu Retreat 2hrs earlier"
Read full review
Sandy P wrote a tip Jan 2024
1 contribution1 helpful vote
"Bring your hiking shoes because next door is Crowbar Trail, a fantastic hike!"
Read full review
Tony H wrote a tip Jan 2024
Toronto, Canada1 contribution3 helpful votes
"Pre order your meals. "
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Porters Lake area.
PRICE RANGE
C$507 - C$656 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
CanadaNova ScotiaHalifax Regional MunicipalityPorters Lake
NUMBER OF ROOMS
3
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing

Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos

Frequently Asked Questions about Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa
Which popular attractions are close to Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Nearby attractions include L'acadie De Chezzetcook (4.3 km), Porters Lake Provincial Park (7.1 km), and Nathan Smith Park (2.8 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a spa, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities, complimentary tea, and free instant coffee during their stay.
Is parking available at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Conveniently located restaurants include Porters Lake Pub and Grill, Rose & Rooster Bakery, and Lupin Dining & Pantry.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa?
Yes, guests have access to a heated pool and yoga classes during their stay.
Is Nalu Retreat and Nordic Spa located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.00 km away from the centre of Porters Lake.