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Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is a seasonal resort on 600 acres that offers incredible access to awe-inspiring remote tweaks.
The exterior of main buildings at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge on Vancouver Island.Credit:GEORGE APOSTOLIDIS/Courtesy of Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
GEORGE APOSTOLIDIS/Courtesy of Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
The helicopter landed delicately, like a bird returning to its nest.
My son, Bobby, was riding shotgun: a brave moment for a 9-year-old boy.
Once the propellers wound down, I quickly scanned the scenery on Mount Ursus.
The Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge Heli “Sip to Sky” excursion.Courtesy of Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
(Snow in July?
Only in Canada.)
We then looped back to that pool.
Scenic view from the fire pit at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.GEORGE APOSTOLIDIS/Courtesy of Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
I stayed behind to document it all, notably Robs less-than-graceful dive into the frigid waters.
I should note that the lodge has just 25 tented cabins and no public Wi-Fi.
I loved how a convivial summer camp vibe settled over the whole place.
And, just like after summer camp, you could expect to leave a changed person.
We stayed in the second cluster, where a series of wooden pathways amidst the rainforest connected the tents.
Walking to our room and listening to the leaves rustle in the breeze was its own form of therapy.
The vibe leans toward quiet luxury.
Our earth-toned Waterfront Ensuite Tent faced the Bedwell River and was a generous 592 square feet.
Otherwise, the deluxe category, also available by water or in the rainforest, has detached restroom facilities.
Incredibly plush towels, cozy gray robes, and, wait for it: heated floors.
Morning coffee is delivered in a thermos outside your zip-up canvas door.
This open-kitchen restaurant feels appropriately elevated thanks to executive chef Ben Godins farm-to-table cuisine.
You wont leave hungry.
The philosophy for the culinary program at Clayoquot is consideration and celebration, Godin toldTravel + Leisure.
With Clayoquots all-inclusive pricing, craft beers, and local spirits are yours to sip at no extra cost.
You will most likely arrive at Clayoquot by seaplane from Vancouver.
The Clayoquot Sound area encompasses the traditional territory of the Hesquiaht, Ahousaht, and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations peoples.
Mountain biking and canyoning are even more strenuous options, which we chose to skip due to Bobbys age.
(Credit to my husband, Rob, for spotting the creature as it breached in the distance.)
As Rainy swam off into the distance, Rob and I toasted our luck with some local beer.
(The solar panels are visible near the staff living quarters).
Both the Cookhouse and Ivanhoe Lounge are ADA-accessible.
How to Get the Most Value out of Your Stay
Clayoquot is an all-inclusive property.
The rate includes most activities, save for the bespoke helicopter experience and spa treatments.
Meals and most wines and spirits are also included.
For further value, it is also part of Virtuoso and Internovas select program.
