
Surrounded by coastal mountains, a spectacular harbour and lush city parks, Fairmont Waterfront is in a prime location.
Stepping off the seaplane or boat that make this neck of the woods accessible, intrepid nature lovers both big and small are faced with luxurious tents hidden between coniferous trees. A complete makeover by Australian brand Baillie Lodges has meant Clayoquot has taken on a more easy-going sophistication. Each of the 25 tents crowned with king-size beds and fine-tuned with crisp linens and bespoke furnishings from local designers. Dining has also had an overhaul, with executive chef, Asher Blackford, and his team serving up dishes inspired by the surrounding multicultural community; with the finest cuts of locally-raised meats and fresh seafood leading a cast of newly foraged and responsibly harvested ingredients sourced by the team and served at the Cookhouse. One thing that remains unchanged, however, are the surroundings and while the wilderness offers up a boat load of photo opportunities, it also offers limitless activities. Horseback riding, hiking with a First Nations escort, and whale and bear watching make for a slightly slower pace, while elsewhere, adrenaline-fueled kayaking, zip lining and deep sea fishing make the list.
Each activity is tailored to interests and abilities by dedicated Activities Directors, meaning while one grown-up chooses a bespoke heli-hike and another to wildlife track, the littler of the crew can take up rock climbing or try their hands at canoeing. Either way, the 600 acres of outpost paradise will become a familiar face courtesy of the expert guides keen to share their local knowledge of the flora and fauna. The estuary fronting the camp is also a true marine playground teeming with wildlife. Salmon and steelhead are among the prevalent catches in the local river system while the shoreline sees brown bears waiting in the wings, and further out to sea – grey whales, porpoises and seals. And when the day is almost at an end, the Healing Grounds Spa fixed between ocean and forest greets with open arms (and outdoor Jacuzzis), or tales are swapped with fellow guests in the games or library tents.
Surrounded by coastal mountains, a spectacular harbour and lush city parks, Fairmont Waterfront is in a prime location.
A true West Coast adventure awaits; only accessible by floatplane, this unique rustic floating lodge nestled amidst the wild, rugged peaks of Canada’s coastline is considered one of the premier grizzly bear viewing resorts in the world.
A Dickian structure against the serrated sea sprayed boulders, if this remote pioneer of sustainability on stilts doesn’t leave you dreaming of a life in the Canadian wilderness, nothing will.