Renowned Vancouver Island resort gets up close and personal
Colleen Seto
Sun
The wichaninnish Inn is just metres from the shore on the west coast of Vancouver Island. It’s relatively calm in summer but wind-whipped in winter
TOFINO — There are few places in Canada where you can leave your window open overnight in November and fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves lapping against rocks — and not wake up shivering under your blankets, to boot.
Yet visitors haven’t truly experienced the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino and its spectacular location on the west coast of Vancouver Island until they’ve watched a storm crashing onto the rocky beach — from the warmth of your fireplace-equipped hotel room.
The Wickaninnish Inn is on Chesterman Beach, a space of packed sand and bleached driftwood backing onto an ancient rainforest.
Known for its surfing, kayaking and beachcombing, Chesterman Beach can instantly transform from serene to extreme, especially in winter.
This makes it the perfect place to experience storm-watching. Witness the ocean’s fury while staying cosy on your private balcony or sitting in front of your fireplace. If you’re feeling more adventurous, head down to the beach. Get misted with salt spray as giant waves crash along the rocky shore. Always be mindful of high tide, though.
Take advantage of the slickers and rubber boots provided by the inn — trust me, you’ll need them.
This year, the McDiarmid family celebrates its 10th anniversary since opening the inn.
Howard McDiarmid moved to Tofino in 1955 to work as a doctor. He recognized the incredible nature of the area and played a key role in the development of Pacific Rim National Park, just minutes south of Tofino.
Today, his son Charles McDiarmid is managing director of the inn and shows visitors the allure of the area.
“If you want an authentic West Coast experience, we deliver it,” he says.
In winter that experience includes storm-watching.
The vision for the hotel, long in the making, was realized in 1996. A decade and a second building later, the Wick has become renowned for its setting “on the edge of the world,” McDiarmid says. “And by providing great service and attention to detail.”
The 76-room inn is a member of Relais & Chateaux, a select few top-notch accommodations and fine-dining restaurants around the world. But even though it’s a high-end property, the inn possesses the down-home hospitality of a cheery family cabin, with McDiarmid playing host.
Another way to pass the time is with a relaxing spa treatment at the Ancient Cedars Spa. Just be sure to book early as space is limited.
If you’re in the mood for a culinary indulgence, head to The Pointe Restaurant for stunning ocean views served up with Pacific Northwest cuisine focusing on local ingredients.
Breakfast service can be slow, so consider room service instead. This way you can sip tea in your bathrobe and unwind in the soaker tub overlooking the ocean.
If you go
Depending on the type of room, rates start from $240 to $360 a night from November through February — prime storm-watching season.
Visit wickinn.com or call 1-800-333-4604.
© The Vancouver Province 2006
