The Campbell River and Strathcona Region is home to numerous remote islands and inlets, many of which are home to hidden gems such as luxury lodges, oceanview glamping tents and unexpected seaside cabins. While staying at these locations, everything is on offer from world-class culinary experiences to unforgettable wilderness adventures. Read on for 5 of our top coastal accommodations within our Region.
Touring Tip: Make the most of your journey by arranging to take the water taxi there and fly back on a floatplane with Corilair. Giving you the best of air and sea perspectives.
Blind Channel Resort
Located on West Thurlow Island, Blind Channel Resort has been owned and operated by the Richter family since the 1970s. Known for their first class service and stunning location, staying at Blind Channel is an experience you won’t soon forget. Thurlow Island is where you can disconnect to reconnect, walking the trails to an old growth forest, that is home to an 800-year-old cedar tree, soak it in, those forests have seen generations pass by. Arrange for a boat excursion to take you through the Discovery Passage and Desolation sound in search of whales, dolphins, bald eagles and all manners of marine life or sit back at the resort on the deck of your cabin. Wander down to the marina for a bite to eat at the Cedar Post Resturant and Gallery, where the menu is inspired by the land and sea surrounding the resort, and the ingredients are locally sourced.
Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge
The Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge is set on the picturesque bluffs of Quadra Island and managed by the We Wai Kai band; Tsa-Kwa-Luten means gathering place and is their name for the area commonly known as Cape Mudge. Tsa-Kwa-Luten is one of the few lodges featuring authentic Pacific Coast native architecture, art, and culture based on traditional Kwagiulth historical values. Staying at the lodge is an immersive cultural experience with every facet incorporating culture and historical importance, the main lobby is built in the style of a contemporary design of a Kwagiulth “Big House” and features local First Nations art.
TIP: While staying at the lodge enjoy the nearby trails and the Cape Mudge Lighthouse or visit the Nyumbaleese Cultural Centre which features an extensive collection of potlatch regalia. Staying at Tsa-Kwa-Luten is truly an unforgettable cultural experience.
Gowlland Harbour Resort
Gowlland Harbour is tucked away on the south end of Quadra Island, this resort offers a relaxing private retreat, with amazing cuisine and local partners who can connect you with a myriad of experiences on the island or on the water, making this place a must on your list. It isn’t just us to thinks this is a gem, Gowlland Harbour Resort was featured in “National Geographic Travel’s ’50 Places of a Lifetime: Canada.” Enjoy your waterfront balcony and recap the day’s adventures, then wander over and take in a delicious meal overlooking the beautiful harbour at their world-renowned restaurant.
Tip: Capping the day off in their cedar sauna will have you sleeping like a baby.
Moutcha Bay Resort
Located between the villages of Tahsis and Gold River, the Moutcha Bay Resort is a luxury experience set in the wilderness. Take your pick of accommodations ranging from suites in the main lodge, ocean-side chalets and the newest offering, luxury yurts. While staying at the resort a myriad of outdoor explorations awaits you. The Nootka Sound area is well known for its excellent kayaking, arrange a tour with the resort to explore the Tlupana Inlet and learn about its ecosystem and the varieties of flora and fauna. Or if a more fast-paced adventure is more your speed, hop on a wildlife or fishing excursion. Want to stay on land? Take a day to venture into the Strathcona Provincial Park, exploring the many waterfalls or challenge yourself with a full day hike like Crest Mountain.
Tip: Highly recommended is a trip to the Upana Caves, family-friendly and no spelunking experience required this is the perfect spot to spend the day exploring.
End your day at Conuma Grill located within their lodge for locally sourced menu options that will have you tasting a variety of B.C flavours.
Browns Bay Resort
Located just north of Campbell River, Browns Bay Resort is a great spot to make your home base for exploration. In addition to the seaside cabins, float house suites and glamping tents, Browns Bay also has a fully serviced RV Park. Browns Bay is set on the shores of the Seymour Narrows, providing you with easy water access to launch your boat go fishing. No boat, no problem, the property provides front seats to wildlife sightings; passing whales, eagles, dolphins and the occasional cruise ship, if you’re lucky you might see all these highlights in one day! If lounging and taking in the elements isn’t your pace, you can spend your days hiking the nearby Ripple Rock Trail, go biking closer to town, or head into downtown Campbell River to explore everything the city has to offer and return to your wild luxury paradise at the end of the day. While cooking for yourself is certainly an option, the resort offers culinary delights at their Narrows floating restaurant from all-you-can-eat crab dinners to classic new york steaks, they have options that will appeal to your taste buds.
Tip: Browns Bay Resort hosts a chum derby every fall, making this the place to be! If this piques your interest, register early to get your derby tickets and accommodations!
Have you stayed at any of these coastal lodges before? Share your experience with us using #DiscoverCampbellRiver on Instagram, facebook and twitter! Happy travels.
