Let me start by saying we had a lot of travel stressors on this trip - a cancelled flight to Vancouver, our initial seaplane to Clayoquot couldn’t land due to a storm, more rain during our visit than was predicted - and yet, my husband and I still thought this was one of the most beautiful places and warmest lodges we’ve been to. To start off with the setting is just stunning (if you watch Virgin River, it’s like you’ve been dropped on the set). The tents are simple but luxurious - very comfortable beds, yummy linens and towels etc. The cookhouse and bar are gorgeous, the food is first class, and there are plenty of excursions to choose from (somehow I even talked myself into doing the glacial water experience). The other guests (mainly couples) we’re fun and interesting and added to the experience. The staff is super warm, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Sarah the GM was ever present and on top of everything. And the dogs! The lodge has several dogs (all well behaved!) and we even got to take Sarah’s poodle hiking with us. And finally - the lack of cell service is amazing. I was initially worried about this (there is wifi in the tents and an emergency number you can leave with family). But to be at dinner or lounging at the bar and not be on my phone was such a change that I didn’t realize I needed! I rarely leave a review without suggestions or mentioning what the hotel can do better but this place is just so unique and special, I hope it stays just as it is.

Clayoquot is the perfect family adventure getaway for anyone who wants to be off the grid, in the gorgeous untouched Canadian wilderness of Vancouver Island, and experience fun, and sometimes personally challenging, activities. An extremely unique and special spot - surrounded by water, forest, animals, and fresh air! But most importantly, the staff were truly A+. It is a trek to get there but absolutely worth it. Once on property - which will involve some combination of planes, seaplane, car, or boat - (highly recommend the seaplane) - you are there and do not leave. There are no outside roads that lead to this resort, and your accommodations are fixed wooden structures with tent-like roofs. Upscale glamping at its best - amazingly comfortable with everything you could need - including an outdoor shower and an indoor gas heater that looks like an old-fashioned wood burning one. Genuinely nice touches. We were in the only attached tent with our young girls which was ideal for us. There is even a door you can close in between the two attached “tents.” We were up in the woods, which was a short walk from the main buildings. If you want to be on the water, then I would request one of those tents which are right on the water’s edge. Really beautiful. We traveled with another family and absolutely loved our stay. Delicious food prepared by Chef Mark and his team - fresh, local, and yummy. Something for everyone and dietary restrictions respected. But note - you are not leaving for any meals. Dinners are different every night (and gourmet in preparation), and breakfast and lunches were the same every day during our 4-day stay, but there are plenty of options to choose from. However, you are not going to Clayoquot for a culinary experience - this is about being one with nature, doing and seeing things that are unique, appreciating the utter beauty of your surroundings, and challenging yourself with new adventures! Plus, we were not lacking for food. All the meals were delicious – we even asked for recipes to take home. Activities were a-plenty. Rock climbing, whale watching, tree climb, e-biking, archery, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, and much more. Guest safety is of utmost importance. Helmets, special shoes, fitted equipment, and lessons on everything were all key before departing on any adventure. Our days were jam packed with action which was perfect for early evenings at the bar for the adults and the kids spending time together in the game tent. Bartender John kept the creative cocktails flowing with a smile and lite bites pre-dinner. Nice touch that all food and drink was included so we never saw a bill… Post-activities, you can also completely relax at the spa. Massage therapists were fantastic, and loved the outdoor hot tub, plunge pools, and sauna. It was awesome to work hard all day, and then relax for a bit before heading to dinner. Plus, the scenery is unparalleled being outdoors while soaking your sore muscles! The true stars of this property are hands down the staff. Maybe it is the Canadian hospitality, but everyone at Clayoquot has this enthusiasm that is infectious. They help to get you out of your comfort zone, try new things, and most importantly have so much fun. Their training is also top notch. It was all the little things - every detail was thought about. Even the servers at each meal knew what your schedule was and would ask you how your hike was that morning or how was last night’s bonfire and s’mores. You feel more like a family member rather than a resort guest. It was an appreciated touch. Shout outs to Justin - Wow. Host with the most and an incredible group leader. All his suggestions were fantastic, and he went the extra mile to make our entire group had the best time possible. Sadie and Mercedes were impressive on all our excursions - from trail walks in the woods to spotting whale blowholes on the water, we did it all and had an incredible time. These ladies always had a smile and made our days super memorable. Linda is a star - she has a heart of gold and amazing energy…she even got our hiking group to have a spontaneous dance party in the woods! Truly a special person inside and out. And resort-mom Sarah is extraordinary. We were sad to leave and still talk about our time at Clayoquot. Memories that will last forever! If you are looking for a family adventure for 4 nights (good amount of time, but you can also do a 7-night stay if you are a more advanced adventure traveler) – check out at this Canadian hidden gem! I highly recommend it.

Seaplane ride in was special, you see how remote this place is.The staff are relaxed and professional, they adapt activities to abilities/wants/needs. Our tent with en suite big,warm sumptuous! The place is Magical with killer views everywhere! The bar and deck are the best we have seen amongst our travels with attentiveness of delivery first class service and variety of drinks! The activities range is brilliant, we stayed a week and tried everything barr fishing as it’s not our bag. Lots of staff here have their dogs so it does feel like a home from home. The remoteness is real we heli hiked to a summit and you can see the vast views mountains and river with the lodge and nothing else !! Horses are well looked after and riding the river bed is cool. Canyoning was a blast and at the end of each activity luxury awaits, food here is like eating at a mitchellin star restaurant we are taking recipes home! Spa and hot tubs are brilliant, along with private dining options too. These guys have it right for a delux remote break with luxury and quality thrown in. We could stay a year!

Our wedding day and our stay at the lodge was the most memorable time of our lives. We made terrific friendships, enjoyed marvellous hospitality and left forever changed by our experience. If you visit Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, remember to remind yourself how lucky you are every moment of your stay; it won't be until after you leave that you realise how truly special a stay at the lodge is.

Words are no substitute for the experience. We are here for a Thursday to Thursday stay, and it’s only Saturday. There is nothing that we have experienced so far that has fallen short of our elevated expectations. From the wilderness outside our tent “door”, to the food at the Cookhouse, to the friendliness and expertise of the staff, to the leadership of Sarah, the GM - this is a place that provides indescribable enjoyment whether you are sitting on your deck watching the tide and the light change, or on a boat looking for bears, whales, porpoises, sea lions and otters (all of which we saw on yesterday’s 4 hour ride from the lodge to the Pacific Ocean via Tofino), or any of the wide range of activities that are offered. Thank goodness we have a lot of days left for things to do, sights to see, people to meet. This is truly a “bucket list” vacation. Thank you Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge. We will miss you when we leave and so grateful for the time we had with you.