Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Centre’s surroundings. Nestled on the captivating Westwood Lake, at the foot of the awe-inspiring Mount Benson, our location offers a natural wonderland for all to enjoy.
Kayak and paddle boards can be rented nearby and the Lake is a mecca for swimmers, small boat enthusiasts and fishers. Immerse yourself in nature on the stunning six kilometer Westwood trail. This picturesque path is the perfect opportunity to connect with the natural world.
Prepare to be inspired by our wooded setting, complete with gardens, a reflective pond, and a walking labyrinth. These serene features provide an ideal backdrop for group activities and personal reflections, allowing you to find tranquility and gain valuable insights.
Come and experience the serenity and inspiration that our Centre’s surroundings have to offer. Whether you seek adventure on the lake or peaceful introspection, our location is sure to captivate your senses and nurture your spirit.
Inside at Bethlehem Centre
Dining Room
Two dining rooms to support the custom needs of groups. The main dining room boosts picturesque views, while the second dining room is a quant space for privacy or silence.
Centre Shop
Our nonprofit gift shop supports local artisans; and works in partnership with Global Village Nanaimo to support fairtrade communities in need.
Library
Cozy up with a book when you visit the comforts of the spiritual lending library as a means of supporting your spiritual journey.
Meditation Chapel
Located in the Main House, the small chapel is a quiet sancutary to meditation, reflection and prayer.
Godden Finger Labyrinth Museum
A one-of-a-kind museum that offers an amazing interactive meditation tool for visitors to the Centre.
Outside at Bethlehem Centre
Veggie Garden
Garden to table
Walking Labyrinth
Chartes style outdoor labyrynth
Patio
A covered patio outside of the View Room provides a sitting area
Quiet spaces
Several quiet spots around the centre for personal reflection and meditation
Reflective Pond
Contained ecosystem pond with garden benches and a path, provides a peaceful space to solitude or movement practice.
Picturesque Lawns
Three large lawn areas are perfect for outdoor group activities and gatherings. Idea for wedding photos.
Forest Paths
Forest paths on and off the property
Peace Pole
Installed in 1999, we have the first Peace Pole on Vancouver Island.
Discover Westwood Lake, Nanaimo and Vancouver Island
Westwood Beach
A swimming beach is a 10-minute walk from the Centre or a 2-minute drive by car. Accessible parking and lake entry, playground, and seasonal life guard.
Trails, Trails, Trails
Trails for all levels, from walking and cycling trails around Westwood Lake; to a more challenging hike up Mount Benson for the more adventurous hiker.
Westwood Lake Campground & Cabins
Alternative accommodations available at Westwood Lake Campground and Cabins are only a few “doors” down from the Centre. Boat rentals available.
Piccadilly Bistro & Tennis Club
Just a stroll through the fence is a lovely bistro for the days when the Centre’s kitchen is closed.
If This Place had a Voice
A poem written by the 2021 Bethlehem Centre Society Board
I am here.
I am earth, wind and water.
I have been and will be a sanctuary.
I want you to come here and enjoy me and to experience my being.
I have been here for 30 years…pain…suffering…joy and guilt. So many people I have heard and incorporated and soothed.
I am open to and welcoming to everyone.
Come unto me all you who have laboured, I will give you rest.
I am here to give you peace and calm.
I also invite you to be challenged.
I offer space for vulnerability.
I am brotherhood.
I am sisterhood.
I am safe.
I am a thin place, a place for matters of the spirit.
I am refuse.
I comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted.
I am truth.
I feel your discomfort.
I feel your resistance.
I would be lonely without you.
Sustainability and Green Initiatives
Welcome to Bethlehem Centre, where we embrace sustainable approaches to preserving our environment. We believe that by embracing these practices we can collectively make a difference in protecting the planet for generations to come.
What sets us apart:
- Sustainable garden to table with our organic garden and mason bee habitat
- Fresh air: breathe easy with our smoke and scent-free air policy
- Water efficiency
- Eco-friendly amenities
- Encouraging sustainable practices with guests
- Conscious linen use
