Halcyon Hot Springs is rolling out a slew of updates this fall, from new staff housing units to a daily shuttle to and from Nakusp.
General Manager Sabine Burmeister is very pleased with the developments at Halcyon.
“In 1997, my husband dragged me out here and said, we need to develop this.”
From that time, Halcyon has slowly evolved into its current form.
The backbone for the layout was executed at that time, with the pools dug out and the main chalet built in 1998-1999. That project was substantial, and was amply documented at the time.
“The focus of our updates at this time is improving the staff services and transportation,” Burmeister noted. “We want to take care of our staff and improve the community connections. We would like to have in place a 30-unit low-cost staff housing complex by next spring, hopefully. We use local, or semi-local resources, from our materials to our contractors.”
In keeping with “the spirit of Halcyon,” Burmeister said, they will not undertake any “mega developments.” But the hope is to “open the eyes of the world to this gem we have on our hands, and have its beauty recognized.”
Halcyon now has “complete back-up generators,” so they are independent. The kitchen will also be expanded to improve working conditions for the staff. Its owners would like to see lots of flowers, Burmeister said. There is some brainstorming taking place about future pool updates, with huge passion from everyone, staff and owners alike.
A shuttle service is being launched, with a preliminary schedule of four daily runs.
“We will probably see a few empty runs at first, but this service will be great for guests and staff alike,” Burmeister said.
Halcyon currently offers “lunch and dip,” and “dinner and dip” packages that entail a discount off the total price, when purchased together.
“With the shuttle, staff will be able to safely get to and from work each day. Guests coming in from town can enjoy their dinner and a drink, but not have to worry about driving home after,” Burmeister said.
As well, guests staying at Halcyon will be able to go into town, stroll downtown or on the Nakusp waterfront, or pick up anything they need from local businesses. The shuttle stands to become a win-win-win solution, Burmeister said.
“It’s quite possible it will really take off in the future,” Burmeister noted.
The Halcyon work force is up to 60 people, and they are hiring, so the new shuttle should be helpful.
The fee for this service is $5 per ride. The shuttle will head out of Nakusp at 7 a.m., 3:30 p.m., 6 p.m., and 9:30 p.m., and returns at 8 a.m., 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 10 p.m.
Bookings and details can be obtained through the Halcyon front desk at 1-888-689-4699 or at info@halcyon-hotsprings.com
