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It is so hard to believe we are into our first full year of being in our new reality as we learn to navigate COVID-19 safely in our safe bubbles and exploring closing to home. We have much to be grateful for as we have a unique opportunity to explore beautiful British Columbia like never before. Here are some romantic getaways in and around BC.
Vancouver Island - the romantic Comox Valley
One of my favourite places to escape for a couple nights is the beautiful Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa. Located just outside of Courtenay - Royston, BC on the Comox Harbour.
The Kingfisher has stunning views of Texada Island and the Sunshine Coast on the horizon as you look out over the Strait of Georgia. You can see majestic eagles soar overhead, seals playing in the water and occasionally maybe even a whale! The property has had an extensive renovation of their gardens, the spa and the Ocean Courtyard wing. It is truly a blissful escape.
For a quick 2-night mid-week getaway I would recommend the Relax, Refresh, Renew Package starting at just CAD$358/person. You will enjoy two night stay, a dining credit of CAD$75/person for the award-winning Ocean7 restaurant or AQUA Bistro plus one visit for two to the Pacific Mist Hydropath® - valid Midweek until March 18, 2021. Click here for full terms and conditions as well as to book. Interested in bringing Fido? Yes, the Kingfisher is pet friendly and have limited rooms assigned for the extended family.
Of course extending your stay at the Kingfisher or exploring other parts of the Comox Valley with so many things to see and do. Some of my favourite things to do include:
Visiting the 40 Knots Winery
Locally owned and biodynamically cared for this Gold (foot) Sustainable Tourism Certified winery in the heart of the Comox valley and adjacent to the Salish Sea cares for their community as much as it does for the environment they work and play. 40 Knots is one of the leading Green Tourism organizations in Canada as vetted by Green Step Solutions International and is a proud member of the world's largest sustainable certification program of its kind in the world with more than 2,500 members spanning the UK, Ireland, Italy, Canada and Zimbabwe.
The wines are incredible and a few of my favourite are the Merlot, Meritage and the Soleil Rosé Brut. If you are looking for an unusual wine the L'Orange Natural is a must. It is a Schonberger and Pinot Gris fermented and aged on skins in Italian Terracotta Amphora. No intervention, just patience. When the timing is just right the grapes are pailed from Amphora and screened to stainless without pressing.
40 Knots is also the perfect place to escape for a romantic picnic, a special celebration or come for a tasting flight. New this year is their new Vineyard Terrace with 180° views of the vineyard and surrounding gardens. Fully enclosed in glass and heated to keep you comfortable throughout the year regardless of the weather.
Part of 40 Knots sustainability initiative they have introduced their luxury Spa products - VinoSpa. Using the concept of reduce, re-use, repurpose and understanding the incredible health benefits of the grape and all of its byproducts for the skin the beauty line was born.
🤔 Did you know that grapes naturally contain high nutrient levels of polyphenols, procyanidols and antocyanosides? In fact some studies have proven they exert more antioxidants or anti-free radicals than Vitamin E. VinoSpa the perfect couples pamper products.
Experts the world over believe that skin products with grapes such as 40 Knots VinoSpa will improve blood circulation, reduce wrinkles and revitalize skin by restoring collagen and elastic fibers. Other benefits are clearing blemished skin, soothing the nervous system and building up the immune system. So go ahead, pamper yourself and see the benefits.
"VinoSpa has thoughtfully crafted a line of natural skin care products of superior quality made in part from the by-products of the grapes and wines produced on their farm. The ingredients used fit the strict quality criteria for what I put on, and in, my body. I particularly enjoy the Renew and Rejuvenate cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. My face feels refreshed and energized with every application." Michel Duhaime MEng R.Ac. DTCM QA consultant
Take a Joy Ride! Explore by Bike...
Just 45-minutes down the highway from Courtenay is Campbell River. Campbell River boasts natural beauty at every turn. From the majestic forest trails to the scenic coastal trails, its wild and rugged character is waiting to be discovered. Breathe in the salty air as you cycle the seaside path, savour the local flavours (perhaps the biggest ice cream in town?) as you slow down and explore the hidden gems in port city. The Tyee Spit, Elk Falls Suspension Bridge, Beaver Lodge Lands, the Seawalk, and Discovery Fishing Pier are some of the highlights of this island cycling tour.
Island Hop and explore Quadra Island by bicycle
As you walk off the ferry onto Quadra Island, you will feel like you’ve escaped to another world on this 4-hour self guided bicycle tour. Quadra Island is home to a vibrant community with strong ties to the land and sea. From artists to farmers, First Nations to fishermen, Quadra’s stunning scenery, friendly people, and rich history will leave an impression on your soul that will last a lifetime.
Overwater bungalow in Romantic Lund Harbour
Looking to escape from it all? At the end of highway 101 on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast is a charming port village of Lund, you will find the romantic Lund Harbour house. This gorgeous one bedroom with gourmet kitchen is perched over the harbour on the Salish Sea. The perfect place to escape from the everyday and soak in the tranquility of Desolation Sound.
While in Lund there are many incredibly romantic things you can do including going out for a kayak trip to explore the coastal shores, Zodiac jet boat tour out in Desolation Sound, take in some of the incredible works of art at the Tidal Art Centre or one of the many incredible hiking trails on the Sunshine Coast Trails (SCT), or perhaps just cozy up to the fireplace and read a good book.
Whistler getaway
Whistler is truly a fantastic place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The entire concept of the resort is to get outside and play and have fun. One of my favourite places to escape to is the Blackcomb Springs Suites by Clíque. Located at the top of Painted Cliff Road on Blackcomb mountain you are really ski-in/ski-out. The hotel comes fully equipped with kitchens so you can prepare your meals in, order in or take the complimentary resort shuttle down to the Whistler Village gondola exchange. Throughout the entire winter season, the hotel is offering every 3rd night free in addition to their great nightly rates.
Moonlit Backcountry Dinner
Looking for date night ideas for your Valentines? Our friends in Whistler at Canadian Wilderness Adventures are offering lucky couples 20% off their Backcountry Steak Dinner tour on Feb. 14th only. Click here to book - limited offer. Use Promo Code: VALENTINE20
Dog Sledding
Nothing is more romantic than speeding through the forest with a team of dogs. For a limited time only you can take mid-week break and join our friends at Canadian Wilderness Adventures as you bundle up and escape in a winter wonderland. Click here to book your midweek adventure and save $100 off Dogsled Tours with promo code: DXD100. Midweek thru to Feb. 28,
Backcountry Snowmobile touring
Jumping on a snowmobile and exploring the backcountry is another way to get away and find some of those romantic spots to create epic memories. Click here to book your midweek adventure and use promo code: DXD20 to save 20% on your next snowmobile adventure. Valid thru to February 28, 2021.
To check availability and other amazing activities to do in Whistler → Click here.
When you are ready to travel, we will be here for you every step of the way. Click here to set up a consultation and let us know where and what you would like to experience in Beautiful British Columbia. #ExploreBC
departuresXdean - an independent agent with Personal Travel Mgmt. (BC Reg. 2806) proud members of the IGLTA and the Ensemble Travel Group.
Where do you want to go? Click here to contact me.