by Deborah Rogers –
Lean in to the dark and cold this winter with a cozy getaway where snuggling up is the key. You don’t have to travel far to experience some luxurious surroundings or enjoy a remote setting. Instead, leave your passport at home and set your sights on a more local destination. Counteract the effects of unpleasant winter weather at one of these hideaways this season …
Villa Eyrie
With magnificent views of the Saanich inlet from almost every room, Villa Eyrie provides a true taste of luxury with its restaurant, spa and mountainside retreat feel. Located off the Trans Canada highway just past the Malahat summit, it will take no time to get there but you’ll feel like you are holidaying with the rich and famous! Year-round there are package options so that you can enjoy all the best of their amenities. Most importantly, with heavenly comfort and views to die for, you should enjoy every minute you get in your room! Find out about specials and year-round rates online: www.villaeyrie.com. Photos courtesy Villa Eyrie.
Grouse House
Nestled in the Cowichan Valley, and only an hour’s drive away, is a unique getaway option. You can stay at the Blue Grouse Winery at their on-site accommodation, Grouse House. It’s a B&B among the vines in a private self-catering cottage; the second “B” stands for bottle as there’s one from the award-winning winery included for you to enjoy! The house sleeps up to four and has luxurious linens and a fireplace for a totally tranquil trip away. Plan your visit to coincide with the monthly Sunday Brunch in the winery. For info on the winery and Grouse House: www.bluegrouse.ca. Photos by Leanna Rathkelly.
Point No Point
If you want to wake up and look out at endless ocean, low-misty cloud or the snow-capped mountains of the Olympic Peninsula, then a cabin at Point No Point Resort would be the perfect getaway for you. Situated on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, just outside Shirley, the resort is a collection of 25 beachfront cabins, each with kitchens and fireplaces and many with private hot tubs. There’s a restaurant onsite too and in-cabin spa treatments available. Although the cabins get booked up well in advance on the weekends, there are low-season rates available Monday to Thursday which could make Point No Point Resort your sneaky hideaway secret while everyone else is working! View the cabins and booking availability: pointnopointresort.com. Photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography.
The Cottages on Salt Spring
A short ferry trip from the Saanich Peninsula, Salt Spring Island can still feel like another world. Secret yourself away at the Cottages on Salt Spring, a private and tranquil lakefront resort. The rustic-looking cottages are fully equipped and spacious inside, with beautiful kitchens and bathrooms. Imagine watching birds and wildlife from your covered deck as you sip a morning coffee. Or coming back from a day’s hiking to soak in the tub and sit by the fireplace. View the cottages and plan your stay: www.cottagesonsaltspring.com.
