Boutique Escapes: BC’s Hidden Gems for Travelers

Usually a tourist attraction is the draw. Other times, a unique place to stay is the most memorable part of the trip. Unsurprisingly, BC has no shortage of sometimes weird, often wonderful, and always memorable hotels, bed and breakfasts, pods, and even treehouses to make your stay off-the-charts incredible. Read on for some of the best spots in the province for communing with nature, finishing your novel or riding bicycles through the lobby—if that’s your thing.

 

Copper Beach House

Cozy, eclectic and storied are a just a few words that describe Copper Beech House on magical Haida Gwaii. Owned and operated by writer Susan Musgrave, this heritage house has welcomed many famous Canadian writers and artists, including Margaret Atwood, Douglas Coupland, Willam Gibson, and David Suzuki. The house itself was constructed in 1914 and then floated on logs to its current location in Masset. Much of the old charm remains, although the furniture, Musgrave assures visitors, has been upgraded to more comfortable pieces that “you can sink into, not through.” The place has been described as Margaret Atwood herself as “Luverly,” which is all the review we need. 

 

Cob Cottage 

This little cob cottage on Mayne Island has a history of charming visitors. As one of Airbnb’s most-loved homes, it has been described by past visitors as “magical” and “straight out of a fairytale.” A cob house is one made out of earth (in case, like us, you didn’t know), and this one has been sculpted into a incredibly cozy retreat, complete with bright windows, wood accents, and hardly a 90-degree angle in sight. It’s small but mighty, equipped with balconies, an outdoor firepit, hammock, and wood-burning fireplace. Get the timing right, and there may even be lambs to ogle. And even though it’s something out of a storybook, there is still WiFi. So, basically perfection. 

 

Second Breakfast Hideaway 

This charming Hobbit’s house tucked into a hillside will delight fans of The Lord of the Rings fantasy series—and those who are rather indifferent. Located outside of Osoyoos in Bridesville, this cozy home is perfect for playing out all Middle-Earth inspired fantasies. But is also just an excellent jumping-off point for backcountry hikes and Kootenay-based adventures. Rounded doorways (including the front door) and storybook-inspired decor make this epic escape one straight out of our imagination (or the silver screen). There is no TV, so there’s also no excuses not to unwind and relax the Hobbit way—although shoes are recommended.

 

Wildpod

In a Wildpod geodesic dome, the tranquility of camping meets boutique hotel luxury. Located in wild and wonderful Tofino, each dome features a 5-metre-wide window overlooking the ocean, an area protected as an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The views outside the window are entertainment enough, although just a hop, skip and jump away are all the amenities that Tofino has to offer, from spa experiences and golf to hot springs and sea kayaking—and surfing, of course. Inside the pod find a comfortable Queen-size bed (with 300-thread-count bedding), a propane fireplace, chandeliers and fairy lights, an ocean-facing cedar deck, Wi-Fi, and a white-noise machine. There are no televisions in the pods—just the best view that money can buy, right outside the window.

 

Free Spirit Spheres

Leave the hustle-bustle behind and enjoy the forest foliage from this unique treehouse resort in Qualicum Beach, with its three spherical pods suspended amid the trees. The pods represent interconnectedness of nature, as the floor, walls and ceiling are no longer separate entities, and the ropes physically—and symbolically—connect visitors to the surrounding trees. These snug spheres are designed to minimize environmental impact—but that doesn’t mean visitors are roughing it. Each one is outfitted with electricity, heat, and a speaker system (for those who enjoy a little background music to accompany their forest bathing). During the day, there are plenty of activities nearby, ranging from beaches and trails to ziplining, sea kayaking and cave exploration. 

 

Hotel Zed

Travel back in time at retro-inspired Hotel Zed, where it’s kind of like your Grandma’s basement—if it was colorful, cool, and outfitted with rollerskates. A few of the weird and wonderful amenities include a bike-friendly lobby, games’ rooms, hot tubs, saunas and pools. There are three BC-based locations: Tofino has a hidden 80s arcade, mini disco, and psychic den; Kelowna boasts rooftop patios with firepits, and a ping-pong lounge; while Victoria is home to the Zedinator water slide. All are laid-back, family- and pet-friendly, and primed for fun (rollerskates, anyone?). Make sure to snap a few Polaroids to document all the fun.