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Newsletter
03.2026
Dear Canada friend,
Saskatchewan continues to make headlines with national recognition for Indigenous tourism, significant hospitality investments and innovative new visitor experiences. From award-winning operators to revitalised landmark properties, the province demonstrates its ongoing commitment to quality, authenticity and growth.
This year, Saskatchewan will be represented at Rendez-vous Canada in Toronto with a delegation of nine sellers, showcasing the diversity of the province’s tourism product. The RVC appointment system opens on March 12 and we encourage you to secure your personal meetings and connect with our partners to explore new opportunities.
Enjoy reading!
Dakota Dunes Resort:
Winner at International Indigenous Tourism Conference 2026
On February 19, 2026, the 13th annual International Indigenous Tourism Conference took place in Amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton, Alberta) on Treaty 6 Territory. During the event, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) announced the winners of the 2026 Indigenous Tourism Awards.
The annual gala celebrates leading Indigenous tourism operators from across Canada, recognising businesses that strengthen Indigenous culture, heritage and economic development while delivering outstanding visitor experiences.
Saskatchewan was strongly represented among this year’s finalists:
- Dakota Dunes Resort:
New Operator or Business that Launched a New Experience - Pêmiska Tourism:
Exceptional Cultural Experience Award - Wanuskewin Heritage Park:
Indigenous Destination Development Award - Wanuskewin Heritage Park (Breanna Tait):
Outstanding Staff Person Award
Dakota Dunes Resort was awarded in the category New Operator or Business that Launched a New Experience for their new Cosmic Dome experience. Located just outside Saskatoon, Dakota Dunes Resort is the region’s only full-service property, offering 155 guest rooms that reflect Indigenous heritage through thoughtfully curated interior design.
Dakota Dunes Resort’s newly introduced Cosmic Dome is an eight-metre geodesic dome designed for immersive night-sky experiences. Blending astronomy with Indigenous storytelling and ancestral knowledge, enhanced by modern projection technology, the Cosmic Dome represents an innovative and culturally grounded addition to Saskatchewan’s tourism landscape.
Congratulations to all finalists and award recipients for their outstanding contributions to Indigenous tourism in Canada.
Major renovation in Saskatoon:
Delta Bessborough begins a new chapter
Saskatoon’s iconic Delta Hotels by Marriott Bessborough has begun an extensive interior renovation, marking a significant new chapter for the landmark property. Work started in January 2026 and includes a complete upgrade of all 225 guest rooms as well as a full redesign of the public spaces.
In addition to modernising interiors, the project also includes major improvements to the building’s heating and cooling systems. A new restaurant, The Grand Junction, will open in the space formerly occupied by the pool, adding a fresh culinary highlight in downtown Saskatoon.
To facilitate the refurbishment, the hotel will close between mid-May and September. The grand reopening is scheduled for late 2026. Following completion of the renovations, "The Bess" will join Marriott’s Autograph Collection – further elevating its position as one of Saskatchewan’s most distinguished places to stay.
Contact:
Delta Hotels by Marriott Bessborough
Amanda Cisecki
amanda.cisecki@marriott.com
Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa:
Mineral Pool & Spa Revitalisation in 2026
Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa in Moose Jaw has announced a CAD 1.76 million revitalisation of its signature geothermal mineral pool and spa area. The investment is designed to further enhance wellness and relaxation experiences at Saskatchewan’s premier full-service resort. The entire Mineral Pool & Spa area will be closed from May 31, with reopening scheduled for July 2026.
Located in downtown Moose Jaw, Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa is just steps from Casino Moose Jaw, the Tunnels of Moose Jaw and local shops. In addition to its unique indoor/outdoor geothermal mineral pool, the property features a full-service restaurant and banquet facilities.
Contact:
Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa
David Wood
david.wood@templegardenshotel.com
Rendez-vous Canada
On March 12, the booking system for RVC Appointments will open. Ask for your personal appointments with our partners from Saskatchewan:
Adventure Destinations International
Adventure Destinations Inc. (ADI) operates recreational properties in Northern Saskatchewan’s wilderness, including Thompson’s Resort, Churchill River Trading Post, Twin Falls Lodge, five Outposts Camps, and several day-use lakes. Based in Saskatoon, ADI offers visitors unforgettable experiences in the pristine Boreal Forest, located on Treaty 6 Territory.
Contact:
Adventure Destinations International
Megan Foster
mfoster@picgroup.ca
Champêtre County
Champêtre County is a cozy Western-themed resort near Saskatoon, offering authentic Saskatchewan experiences. With a focus on warm hospitality, cozy accommodations, and a variety of activities, it’s the perfect destination for a unique and relaxing stay. Its central location allows easy access to local culture, making it a memorable stop for travelers.
Contact:
Champêtre County
Francine Edmondson
saloon@champetrecounty.com
Dakota Dunes Resort
Located on Whitecap Dakota territory, Dakota Dunes Resort is Saskatoon’s first full-service resort, just 20 minutes from downtown. With 155 rooms and Indigenous-inspired design, it offers amenities like a rooftop pool, fitness centre, restaurant, and the Wanuskewin gift shop. Guests can enjoy activities such as canoeing, Bannock and Bonfire, and snowshoeing for a memorable experience.
Contact:
Dakota Dunes Resort
Joy Caron
jcaron@dakotadunesresort.com
Discover Saskatoon
Saskatoon, a city on the edge of nature, blends natural beauty with urban amenities. Hike along the river, explore world-class art, and enjoy outdoor adventures like paddling on the South Saskatchewan River. From iconic wildlife to vibrant festivals, Indigenous history to modern cuisine, Saskatoon offers unforgettable experiences and lasting connections.
Contact:
Discover Saskatoon
Anahi Soria
asoria@discoversaskatoon.com
Lloyd Lake Lodge
Located in Saskatchewan's Northwest, just north of Clearwater River Provincial Park on Lloyd Lake, this fly-in fishing lodge offers six cabins for 2-6 guests, with a maximum of 12 on-site. Known for excellent fishing, the lodge serves legendary shore lunches and delicious dinners made from fresh ingredients. Multi-day packages include transfers from Fort McMurray (AB), accommodation, guided fishing trips, and all meals.
Contact:
Lloyd Lake Lodge
Wilma Uniat
lloydlakelodge@gmail.com
Pêmiska Tourism
Pêmiska Tourism, located 45 minutes north of Saskatoon in Treaty 6 territory, offers Indigenous-owned experiences that blend history, culture, and nature. Guests can stay in tipi lodges at Fort Carlton Provincial Park, explore the Trans Canada Trail, and visit historic sites like the Battle of Duck Lake and the Treaty 6 Monument. Pêmiska invites visitors to discover heritage and adventure in a meaningful and authentic way.
In 2026, Pêmiska Tourism, together with Fort Carlton Provincial Park, will commemorate the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6 with a special event from August 20 - 23. Part of the celebration is the annual Beardy’s & Okemasis Powwow (August 21 – 23), a vibrant gathering that honours Cree culture, traditions, and community
Contact:
Pêmiska Tourism
Collin Alexander
calexander@pemiska.ca
The Tunnels of Moose Jaw
The Tunnels of Moose Jaw offers year-round guided theatrical tours that bring Canadian history to life. Explore the Chicago Connection, the struggles of early Chinese immigrants in Passage to Fortune, and Canada’s post-WWII growth in Bunker 24, where you experience Cold War training in a 1958 bunker setting.
Contact:
Tunnels of Moose Jaw
Bobby Hill
bobby@tunnelsofmoosejaw.com
Wanuskewin Heritage Park
Wanuskewin has been an Indigenous gathering place for over 6,400 years, celebrating Indigenous cultures through immersive programming and experiences. Featuring a herd of Plains Bison, cultural exhibits, archaeology programs, outdoor dining, traditional dances, and scenic hiking trails, Wanuskewin offers a deep connection to both history and contemporary Indigenous life. Recognized with multiple awards, it is also a nominee for UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Contact:
Wanuskewin Heritage Park
Andrew McDonald
marketing@wanuskewin.com
Tourism Saskatchewan
Representing the entire province, the Tourism Saskatchewan team is available at RVC to answer any questions about the destination's tourism product. We offer sample itineraries, brochures, destination training and opportunities to participate in FAM tours. We’re also the right contact for your ideas for joint marketing initiatives. Let's talk about Saskatchewan!
Contact:
Tourism Saskatchewan
Alison Singharath
alison.singharath@tourismsask.com
Natalie Hoffarth
natalie.hoffarth@tourismsask.com
Michaela Arnold
michaela@denkzauber.de
If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with:
Michaela Arnold
UK Market Representative
c/o Denkzauber GmbH
Phone: +49 2151 5124669
michaela@denkzauber.de
Karin Schreiber
UK Market Representative
c/o Denkzauber GmbH
Phone: +49 160 99130712
karin@denkzauber.de
Imprint:
Denkzauber GmbH
Neustadt 13
47809 Krefeld
Germany
Fon: +49 2151 5124669
info@denkzauber.de
Managing Director: Michaela Arnold
HRB 13436, Administrative Court of Krefeld
USt-Id-Nr.: DE277015365
Responsible for the content according to § 10 MDStV /§ 6 TDG: Michaela Arnold