BC-Tofino
Columbia


The Experience

The Wickaninnish is an example of a property perfectly suited to its surroundings. Set on the edge of Vancouver Island on a promontory jutting into the Pacific, it’s surrounded by fir trees and flanked by a beach -- guests go to sleep listening to waves crashing onto the rocks. Even the architecture of this stylish but rustic lodge emphasizes this closeness to nature: lots of rough-hewn wood, natural stone and earth-tone fabrics. The Wick’s formula for success is no mystery: extreme luxury mixed with good food, a great spa and lots of fresh air.

The Rooms

Deluxe doubles start at a grand 500 square feet but even feel larger thanks to the fantastic views (beach views are nice, ocean views better), with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies to listen to the surf. But why compromise on the view? Premier rooms offer four huge windows looking in two directions. Suites pull out all the stops with touches like a tub with a view. But all have fireplaces that burst into life at the flick of a switch and bathrooms stocked with Aveda products.

The Service

When you are this far from the big city and surrounded by such relaxing scenery, you expect a stress-free approach to work. Many of the younger staff members work here so they can spend their spare time surfing, and their attitude is relaxed and pleasant, but still efficient and professional.

The Highlights

Many guests come for the whale-watching (March–June), but one of the most thrilling times to visit is storm season (November–February), when you can happily spend hours watching the spectacular weather. Once you’ve had an invigorating walk on the beach and been thoroughly energized by the Pacific spray (don’t worry, the hotel provides waterproof jackets), head inside to relax at the Ancient Cedars spa for a traditional treatment or one that incorporates shamanistic techniques or chanting. Then sit down to a meal of seared wild B.C. salmon with red-wine risotto at The Pointe, taking advantage of the restaurant’s well-stocked wine cellar as well as its 230-degree view of the endless ocean.

--Stephen Whitlock

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