Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

I read about this remarkable lodge in the Globe and Mail in August 2025, and immediately thought: this is where I want to spend my 60th birthday the following summer. It did not disappoint — in fact, it was incredible! We met our boat transfer in Tofino, excited and unsure what to expect. After a scenic 40-minute boat ride into the heart of Clayoquot Sound, we arrived at the lodge docks and were greeted like old friends by Sarah, the resort's general manager, and her team of competent, enthusiastic, welcoming staff — young, international, and somehow reminiscent of arriving at summer camp all those years ago. Initially, we were surprised by the number of young families arriving with us — we'd assumed this was more of an adults' destination, especially given the cost of staying here. That said, there were plenty of couples too, and the team carefully curated our experiences so we were always grouped with other adults. After a few days together, we felt like fast friends. We told our friends at home that we'd be camping in tents, downplaying the experience ahead — we travel a lot, and wanted to keep this expensive destination on the down-low. Our tent, perched over an estuary at the end of a boardwalk through old-growth forest, was absolutely perfect. We had room to unpack, an outdoor shower, and a comfy king-sized bed — and I loved the hot water bottle tucked into the bed during turn-down service. After four nights in this luxurious accommodation, I'm now describing it to friends as "fancy glamping." We wanted to seize each day, filling our itinerary with everything on offer — starting with a 6 a.m. cold plunge into the sound on our first morning. What an exhilarating way to start the day! We went horseback riding through gorgeous forests and streams on beautifully cared-for horses. We donned wetsuits and scrambled and swam up a rushing river, an experience called canyoneering. We hiked and climbed steep terrain to Penny Falls with tremendous mountain views. We dusted off old archery skills learned at summer camp as kids — my husband proving to be quite the marksman! Our pinnacle day, and the highlight of our eight days on Vancouver Island, was the Ursa Hike: with a guide and group, we hiked 6 km into the wilderness among majestic trees and moss-covered boulders, before the resort's helicopter picked us up on a rocky, riverside beach and whisked the two of us and our own private guide up to a mountainside landing pad. We ate our gourmet picnic lunch with views of the lodge and sound far below, before embarking on a steady, uphill climb to the peak of Ursa Mountain. This hike is not for the faint of heart or those with a fear of heights, yet at no time did we feel like we were in danger. At the top, we felt like we were on top of the world, with tremendous views and no sign of civilization anywhere — we were truly in the wilderness! Our helicopter tour of the mountain peaks and glaciers, following our descent, was the icing on the cake. The food was plentiful, fresh, and delicious. I devoured the fresh fish option at lunch and dinner — all locally caught and magnificent. The staff were all so welcoming and friendly, making sure that all of our needs were met. We got lucky with perfect weather; however, I'm sure this place shines and is glorious no matter the weather. The seaplane departure was another exciting adventure for me, having never been on one. I felt safe and was thrilled to have more beautiful views of Vancouver Island. Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is a remarkable destination, and I am so pleased that it was where I chose to spend my milestone birthday — it couldn't have been better!

Bespoke highly curated experiences that allow you to connect with nature with luxurious rustic touches. This was an incredible life changing trip for us and I want to thank all the staff for an incredible stay.

CWL is a very special place. I had been wanting to visit for several years and was concerned I would be let down once I actually got there. I was wrong- CWL exceeded my expectations in every way, and it was so much more than a "fun vacation". CWL is really about connecting with nature. Of course there were the fun activities and luxuries - absolutely delicious food and wine, massages and heli-hiking with glacial immersion (which I highly recommend). But for me it was about the nature... Have you ever heard silence? It was a beautiful thing. I was sad to get home and listen to the lawn mowers next door. And, when was the last time you saw the stars? I would highly recommend CWL and hope everyone has the opportunity to disconnect, and experience the raw beauty there. I feel very fortunate to have been able to visit; and am thankful for Sarah, the GM, and all of her lovely staff who are stewards of the land. I was genuinely touched by them all.

What a magical place. If you enjoy beautiful nature and five star service and food, this place is for you. The wildlife was all around you, from the bears, to the bald eagles and sea otters. The food was really spectacular. The chefs used local produce where possible and dinner every night was a highlight. Local fish and seafood, canapés outside overlooking the sound were highlights.

This stay was brilliant with loads of different fun activities waiting to be discovered just around the corner. Moving on the itinerary and service were both amazing. The food was exquisite with a variety of different dishes. The rooms are very luxury but the sofa beds for children are a tad uncomfortable. Also the activities were great fun such as canyoning,horse riding,wildlife boat trip, rock climbing, E biking and bridge jumping but my personal favourite was definitely canyoning and I 100% recommend this activity as it is great fun.