Cortes Island Lifestyle Series – Part 1: Why Living Near Hollyhock Retreat Centre Is a Game Changer
By Jeramie Ellingsen, Real Estate Advisor
This summer, I’m sharing a five-part blog series to highlight what makes Cortes Island more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong. If you’re considering buying property here, you’re not just purchasing land or a home. You’re stepping into a vibrant, interconnected community with a deep commitment to creativity, sustainability, and mutual support. We’re kicking things off with one of the island’s most iconic institutions: Hollyhock Retreat Centre.
Hollyhock is known around the world as a centre for learning, wellness, and leadership. Each year it draws global facilitators and participants to its oceanfront campus for over 100 programs in everything from yoga and writing to climate leadership, herbal medicine, and meditation. As a resident, you have the rare privilege of accessing these programs just minutes from home.
The meals at Hollyhock are legendary—fresh, organic, and served communally. Many locals drop in during the season to enjoy lunch with friends or spend time in the lush garden that feeds the kitchen. It’s not just about nourishment—it’s a hub of connection.
Residents can access Hollyhock’s oceanfront hot tubs, book therapeutic massage or bodywork sessions, or simply walk the forest trails and take in the serenity of the land. It’s a space designed for reflection and restoration, right in your backyard.
Hollyhock is a registered non-profit and has long been woven into the fabric of Cortes life. It supports local growers, collaborates with Indigenous leaders, and prioritizes regenerative land stewardship. Living nearby isn’t just convenient—it connects you to a place that reflects the values many of us move here for.
If you’re looking for a lifestyle rooted in nature, creativity, and community, I’d love to help you find the right property. Stay tuned for the next post in this summer series, where I’ll highlight Cortes Community Radio—CKTZ 89.5FM—and how local voices shape our island story.
Jeramie Ellingsen
Real Estate Advisor | Discovery Islands & Coastal BC
