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Adventuring at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge: An Immersive Family Experience

The helicopter descended smoothly onto the stunning landscape, reminiscent of a bird returning to its nest. My son, Bobby, bravely occupied the passenger seat, an impressive feat for a 9-year-old. Our journey began at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, nestled on Vancouver Island, Canada. We embarked on an exhilarating heli-hiking trip to the snowcapped heights of the Upper Ursus Valley, soaring to a breathtaking elevation of 4,200 feet, surrounded by the lush wilderness adjacent to Strathcona Provincial Park. Bobby’s enthusiastic thumbs-up and wide grin signaled his thrill for the adventure ahead.

As the helicopter blades slowed, my gaze swept over the picturesque scene of Mount Ursus. Before us stretched a gentle slope adorned with vibrant pink wildflowers, leading to a rocky plateau where an emerald glacial pool glimmered—a view that seemed lifted from Hollywood’s famed films.

Guided by Jaime Wing Ho, we navigated the rocky terrain, carefully stepping over moss-covered rocks in search of stable ground. Despite July’s summer heat, we found ourselves frolicking in snow-dusted expanses and making our way back to the inviting glacial pool. Just as we settled in, rain began to trickle down, prompting Jaime to jokingly ask, “Do you want to swim?”

Rob and Bobby quickly donned their swim gear and ventured into the icy waters, inching deeper from their ankles to knees. I remained on the sidelines, capturing the moment when Rob executed a less-than-graceful dive into the chilly pool. In that serene setting—far removed from the comforts of the lodge—our family formed connections with nature and each other.

The allure of Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge lies in its access to secluded, awe-inspiring locations. Our heli-hiking site was just one of the many remote experiences available on the resort’s 600 acres, where Bedwell Sound meets the Pacific Ocean. This intimate resort caters to families, encouraging time away from screens and a deeper immersion in the surroundings.

With only 25 luxurious tented cabins and no public Wi-Fi, guests can truly disconnect from the digital world. While we feared the lack of connectivity might complicate our busy lives, we soon embraced the respite it provided. Our three-night stay could have easily extended, as the lodge’s schedule offered just enough variety to keep activities fresh without feeling overwhelming.

Bobby’s daily interactions with the lodge’s resident poodles, Toby and Charlie, were unexpected highlights, which helped him confront his fear of dogs, further illustrating the transformative power of the wilderness.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

Disconnecting electronically enhances opportunities for reconnecting with nature. The lodge’s open kitchen focuses on local ingredients, ensuring a rich culinary experience. A varied array of activities caters to families, ranging from hiking and whale-watching to horseback riding.

The Rooms

Clayoquot exudes boutique charm, featuring only 25 white canvas tents thoughtfully spread across the property. One cluster is situated on the “Sunny Side,” featuring the largest family tent option, while another offers a more secluded experience near the “Outpost.” Our stay was in the latter area, with wooden pathways camouflaged in rainforest vegetation, creating a tranquil, immersive environment.

Our Waterfront Ensuite Tent—spacious at 592 square feet—boasted luxurious amenities like cedar plank flooring, a plush king-sized bed, and a cozy seating area. Unique features included an outdoor cedar shower with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and heated floors in the bathroom, creating a truly decadent camping experience.

Food and Drink

Guests enjoy three gourmet meals a day at the Cookhouse, a cozy space showcasing the culinary prowess of executive chef Ben Godin. His philosophy of sustainability shapes their farm-to-table offerings, utilizing locally sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that highlight the best of British Columbia’s culinary landscape.

Breakfast selections feature house-baked pastries alongside hot, made-to-order dishes; for lunch, hearty items like fish and chips and kale caesar salads are offered. Dinner’s complex multi-course offerings showcase seasonal ingredients and skillful preparation, ensuring that no one leaves feeling unsatisfied.

Clayoquot’s wine selections are primarily sourced from British Columbia, allowing guests to sample selections that are hard to find outside of Canada. All-inclusive pricing means cocktails, craft beers, and meals come together seamlessly, especially enjoyed in the Ivanhoe Lounge—a social hub with spectacular views.

Location

With about 12,000 square miles of pristine wilderness, Vancouver Island remains an iconic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Clayoquot is near the charming town of Tofino, accessible by boat, offering a quaint retreat from resort life.

Arriving by seaplane brings an unforgettable thrill, transforming the view from urban landscapes to untouched nature as you approach the lodge concealed among dense forests, making for an incredible introduction to your stay.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is situated within the traditional territories of the Hesquiaht, Ahousaht, and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations, emphasizing the growing recognition of Indigenous culture in Canadian tourism.

Activities and Experiences

Your schedule at Clayoquot is brimming with varied activities, from unwinding at the spa with its serene hot tubs overlooking the Bedwell River to stand-up paddleboarding in the nearby “Oasis.” Each day offers the chance to explore different nature trails, guided by knowledgeable staff who ensure a safe and memorable experience for families.

One adventure highlighted the breathtaking marine life of the area, with our marine safari tour leading us to the enchanting sight of a male orca, further enriching our connection to the natural world.

Accessibility and Sustainability

In efforts to embody sustainability, Clayoquot launched a solar- and battery-based system in 2024, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels while maintaining energy-efficiency throughout the property.

The lodge’s infrastructure, including a wooden boardwalk, provides ease of access throughout the grounds, and both main dining venues are ADA-compliant, showcasing Clayoquot’s commitment to inclusivity.

How to Get the Most Value out of Your Stay

As an all-inclusive destination, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers a valuable experience, with accommodations covering nearly all activities and meals. Guests can partake in various experiences without concerns over hidden costs, making it a unique retreat for families looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com