Last fall, Shawna (our Public Relations Manager at the Wickaninnish) and I had the amazing opportunity to visit the all-inclusive Sonora Resort, a Relais & Châteaux property like the Wickaninnish Inn, on Sonora Island. It was incredible. Sonora is one of the northern Discovery Islands located between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. The east side of Vancouver Island is very different than Tofino on the west coast, but both are brilliant gems of the Pacific Northwest.

Sonora Resort is a stunning haven surrounded by tall evergreens and the calm (more consistently tranquil than in Tofino) lapping ocean. The main water access launch point is in Campbell River, and the once-a-day shuttle to bring you there is included in your stay. Guests can also choose—and many do!—to come by helicopter, floatplane or another boat shuttle (at an extra cost). Each way of transportation has its highlights, ours was seeing whales en route!

We were greeted upon arrival, and our bags got whisked away as we took it all in. We stopped by the reception and were offered some wonderful cocktails by the fireside as we went over a welcome orientation—we felt very well taken care of. There are so many activities on offer (most on an a la carte basis), but I would say I was most looking forward to some time at the spa and the renowned cuisine—more on that in a moment.

The amenities at Sonora Resort are spectacular, spacious and modern, and the rooms are as thoughtfully designed as they are provided with wonderful details to ensure a comfortable stay. Windows look out over ocean, into the forest and over nature pathways to varying degrees, all with a feeling of showcasing the beautiful natural environment.

(To note: while remote, it’s a popular area for fishing and there are a few other small lodges or private villas within sight, however, it all has a relaxed and private air about it.)

That evening we were treated to a truly remarkable dining experience. Chef Lukas pulled out all the stops to ensure everyone at the table (we were joined by some company) felt delightfully satiated. The next night Shawna and I had the tasting menu, which was so delicate and decadent I forgot to take any photos!

On the day between we enjoyed lovely spa treatments. When I arrived for my appointment, I was invited to an aromatherapy consultation and foot soak—which I chose to do out on their beautiful, sunny terrace—before my treatment. The practitioners were very skilled, and I relaxed in serene solitude (we didn’t even see each other!).

It was a fantastic stay, and wonderful to experience more of this diverse region we call home. On your next visit, planning both a stop in Tofino at the Wickaninnish Inn and at Sonora Resort—two places innately tied to showing the best of the Pacific Northwest—would make for an exquisite holiday and encompass so much of what the coast has to offer.