The Mailman family are fourth-generation Campbell River residents who have built homes and apartment buildings across Canada.
The resort represents their first foray into boutique hotels and their commitment to community building.
Entering the building, lifesize photography featuring breathtaking vistas populates each wall.
Credit:michael vanarey/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
Often, the guides parents or grandparents grew up there.
It’s emotional learning the true history of the area you’re visiting, told by us.
The sliding glass doors with floor-to-ceiling shale gray curtains open to a spacious patio overlooking the firepits and fairway.
michael vanarey/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
The third floor holds 12 pet-friendly rooms.
Rates fluctuate by season.
He fills it out with a smattering of Vancouver Island farmers and makers, supporting local producers wherever possible.
Shawn Talbot/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
But dinner is where Watson shines.
Sated, I made my way to the bar.
It arrives with a delicate smoke bubble enveloping the drink.
Shawn Talbot/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
Eyes peeled, we spotted our first pod of orcas just 10 minutes in.
Soon, they were joined by a second, a pod of Southern Residents, an endangered species.
But they were not interested in leaving.
michael vanarey/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
Instead, they frolicked and jumped from the water for the next 30 minutes.
Sharing those moments with my Marine Biologist daughter capstoned an incredible trip.
The property also works withHomalco Wildlife & Cultural Toursfor experiences led by Indigenous guides.
Leila Kwok/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
They offer six tours that center on whales, bears, and culture.
It is the first of its kind.
It is also scheduled to be a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
The Velocity Lounge offers a diverse cocktail list, a menu of shareable dishes, and multiple seating vignettes.
The Spa
Just off the hotels lobby sitsImmersion Spa & Wellness.
Lights throughout can be adjusted for maximum relaxation, and treatments inspired by local botany populate the spa menu.
Shawn Talbot/Courtesy of Naturally Pacific Resort
Accessibility and Sustainability
Three king-sized rooms are ADA-compliant.
There are also elevators on each floor, accessible entrances, and service animals are welcome throughout the property.
Sustainability initiatives go beyond eliminating plastic water bottles at this property.
The guest is given a geocode to view the area.
There is no large international airport in Campbell River, so getting to this unspoiled area takes some planning.