A document with the word caa on it.

Oct 28, 2022

10 min. read

As you travel from Roblin south to Russell, the valleys of the Shell and Assiniboine rivers paint a picturesque landscape like no other in the province. Here on these ancient lands, known to the Cree as Asessippi (meaning “shell river”), travellers continue to gather—for fellowship, fun and some great downhill skiing.

A collage of food and drinks.

1. Explore

Tucked inside the 1906 Roblin Train Station, Tucker’s General Store offers the best of old and new. Pick up a cozy buffalo plaid shirt or drop some coins into the vintage soda machine. 126 1st Ave. N.W.

2. Relax

After a day on the slopes, an afternoon on the massage table does a body good. Opt for a hot stone aromatherapy treatment at Stag + Raven spa, located inside the quaint Russell Inn. Hwy 16 & 83

3. Eat

Part eatery, part gift shop, TinHouse Designs & Coffee in Russell serves up double-stacked nachos that pair perfectly with a Beergarita, a lime margarita slush topped with a mini Corona. 161 Main St. N.

4. Shop

Step into Roblin’s charming Crave Style to refresh your wardrobe with seasonal styles. And pamper yourself with a selection of Manitoba-made Pure Anada skin-care treatments. 158 Main St.

A windmill in a yard.

5. Give Peace a Chance

For a quarter of a century, Judy Usunier has been the smiling host at Big Grass, a combination cabin rental and outfitting service just outside of Russell. These days, the irrepressible Usunier is adding another component to camp: the Big Grass Healing Centre.

What can you tell us about the new healing centre?

We explore the power of the moon and how it can bring peace. Then in consultation with Indigenous friends who work in mental health and healthcare, the plan is to develop an inclusive and respectful location for retreats of healing, growth and self-sustainability.

What else can guests do at Big Grass?

In addition to the planned programming, we have walking trails, an abundance of wildlife, a large garden, a few Henny Penny hens and two big, very friendly dogs. Most of all, you’ll get a big smile from me and a warm welcome for anyone who is looking for the simple touch.

What do you love most about living near Russell?

The rural setting is really a gem for anyone looking for tranquility. As a board member with the Assiniboine Valley Recreation Community Development group, I’m thrilled that we have people in our community who are continually looking for ways to grow rural opportunities.

A collage of pictures of people on skis and sleds.

It’s All Downhill

Asessippi Ski Resort, Manitoba’s largest, boasts 26 runs and a little something for everyone.

6.

Asessippi is on a mission to offer people with reduced mobility the excitement of alpine skiing. Bi-Unique skis and sit skis are available, along with trained instructors ready to accompany both adults and juniors on a thrilling downhill experience.

7.

Tuck into a bowl of soul-satisfying beef stew, served with piping hot garlic toast, at O’Lifty’s Pub N’Grub on the property. Then sample some of the eatery’s non-alcoholic cocktails, including Grove Margarita, CosNOpolitan and the NOT Toddy.

8.

Non-skiers and boarders can still feel the need for speed at Asessippi. The tubing park features a handful of downhill runs, easily accessible by a magic carpet lift. Or for a slower pace, strap on a pair of snowshoes (the resort offers rentals) for a nature walk along groomed trails.

Terms and Condition

1 CAA Travel Insurance is underwritten by Orion Travel Insurance Company, a CAA Company. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. A Medical Questionnaire is required if you are 60 years of age and older.

2 Applies to CAA Members in good standing with dues paid in full by membership expiry date. 10% savings applies to the total premium excluding applicable taxes. Minimum premium applies. Excludes visitors to Canada Insurance.

3 CAA Member-exclusive benefits apply to CAA Members in good standing. Offers apply to select departures and durations and have advance purchase and combinability restrictions. Subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. Please contact your CAA Travel Consultant for full details.

4 Book a 2023 Globus vacation (excluding Escapes by Globus) and save $100 per person off the vacation price as an Exclusive CAA Manitoba Member. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between January 1 and December 31, 2023 for 2023 travel. Must mention Ask-and-receive code CSC100. Offer reliant on space availability. Applies to new 2022 bookings only. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply; see Travel Terms & Conditions for details. May be withdrawn at any time. Available from participating GFOB offices only.

5 Up to $5 million CAD. Maximum $25,000 for all Emergency Medical Insurance benefits for Canadian residents without active Government Health Insurance Plan (GHIP); and/or without GHIP authorization to cover trip days in excess of 212 days in Manitoba in a 12-month period.

6 CAA Assistance is provided by Global Excel Management Inc. Telemedicine and House Call Services availability may vary depending on geographical locations and current emergency medical condition.

7 Terms and conditions apply. $5 million CAD emergency medical coverage, is dependent on having received all Health Canada approved COVID-19 vaccines, at least 14 days prior to departure. Please see the COVID-19 Endorsement for details. © 2022 CAA Club Group (o/a CAA Travel and CAA Manitoba). All rights reserved. Serving Members in Southern and Central Ontario and Manitoba. Trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. ®CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. ™Driven by Good is a trademark of CAA Club Group. (429052-09/22)

Share this article: