When life becomes challenging, sometimes the best thing you can do is find some out-of-the-way place that will let you relax and recharge. With its idyllic mix of mountains, coasts and islands, British Columbia has some of the most beautiful spots anywhere for respite and reconnecting with that special someone or yourself.
Sonora Resort
Johnstone Strait
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Website: sonoraresort.com
Sonora Island is at the eastern end of Johnstone Strait has no ferry service and is one of the most pristine wildernesses in British Columbia. Arrive by helicopter, seaplane or water taxi to check in to an amazing, all-inclusive resort in the middle of stunning beauty. While there you can take advantage of the natural location while being pampered.
The resort offers a variety of fishing tours that include fly and salmon fishing with all necessities provided. The more adventurous can take a helicopter to their destination and spend the day in solitude – just you and the fish.
To explore the area without the pressure of bringing home a fish, you can take one of the available tours and see the wilderness by boat or helicopter. The Eco Tour boat includes local guides that communicate softly through headphones so you can learn about the wildlife without disturbing it. Eco Tours also have an option to view grizzlies in their natural environment.
The resort also has a spa that offers massages, steam rooms, hot tubs and plenty of time to relax in a hot tub looking out over the ocean. A game room is filled with activities to keep the kids busy and there is a home theatre for when you just want to sit back and enjoy a movie. If the weather is chilly, a hot cup of tea in the plant-filled conservatory might be just what you need to make the relaxation complete.
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort
Vancouver Island
Website: wildretreat.com
Tucked into the wilderness of Vancouver Island, Clayoquot is a family-friendly resort that is equally appealing to honeymooners and those looking for a romantic retreat. The vacation starts with the ride to get here – if you haven’t booked a seaplane from Vancouver, you can always hop on a boat in Tofino to be transported to the luxury-wilderness resort.
One of the unique aspects of Clayoquot is their commitment to sustainability. The resort partners with First Nation peoples to continue to rehabilitate salmon spawning grounds to protect Wild Pacific salmon populations. Guest experiences incorporate good stewardship and protect the land and wildlife.
The Wilderness Resort doesn’t have pre-set adventures for guests to sign up for. Instead, individuals discuss what they want to do with the Activities Director and the next day’s events are mapped out in accordance with weather, tides, recent animal sightings and guests’ goals. Adventures range from climbing and biking to wildlife viewing to quiet soaks in the thermal pools of Hot Springs Cove.
Rockwater Secret Cove Resort
Sunshine Coast
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Website: rockwatersecretcoveresort.com
Beautiful Halfmoon Bay on the lush green Sunshine Coast is about two hours from Vancouver but feels like an entirely different world. The Resort is set right on the coast overlooking the Georgian Strait, providing its guests with magnificent sunsets and stunning views of the water. The nearness to the city makes Rockwater an ideal place to slip away to for a romantic weekend.
The Tenthouse Suites provide the a unique experience of luxurious accommodation nestled in the forest. The tents are perfect for a couples’ getaway, letting you relax in the tub while enjoying the view, or having a peaceful cocktail on the private verandas. Families or a group of friends will find plenty of space in either the lodge or the cabins, and both types of lodgings have indulgences that will make you feel like royalty.
Whether you’re looking for group games and classes or solo activities on the trails, the resort has a plan for you. Divers will enjoy the underwater scenery near the resort, although a trip up to the HMSC Chaudiere Artificial Reef Site is an easy excursion. Nearby galleries and gift shops can fill the time on a drizzly day, or just sink back into that hot tub and let the sound of the rain shut out the rest of the world.
Nimmo Bay Resort
North Vancouver Island
Nimmo Bay Resort
Website: nimmobay.com
The northern part of Vancouver Island is rugged and wild, attracting the more adventurous – and those seeking solitude. This resort is perfect for families looking for fun, couples wanting some special time and even boaters exploring the island and looking for a break.
Nimmo Bay offers some seriously fun adventures and excursions. Wilderness tours and guided kayaking events are available during the summer and let you look for whales, hike the rainforest and paddleboard the area around the resort. Helicopter tours on the other hand will whisk you away to ancient glaciers, old growth forests, remote islands and secluded hot springs. The destination depends on the group so each adventure is unique.
Poets Cove Resort
Pender Island
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Website: poetscove.com
Pender Island in the Southern Gulf is a mix of farmland, lakes, wilderness and parks. The island is accessible by air or boat and is served by the BC Ferries. Water taxis can take you directly to the resort for easier access.
The lodge at Poets Cove is right on the water and every room has a view of the sunset. The cottages are in the trees with some views of the water, while others have more privacy for special hideaway retreats. The villas are more complete and a great choice for anyone planning an extended stay to enjoy the island.
Paddling, whale watching and fishing are among the fun things to do on the water, or travel inland to do some hiking or wander through Saltspring Market. You can even request a stop at the winery if you take an eco cruise through the waters of the Southern Gulf Islands.