World famous in our own backyard

Southeastern B.C.'s Island Lake Lodge is a small, high-end resort with a huge reputation

1 of 2Before, after or instead of a hike or a fishing trip, time spent relaxing in the beauty of nature is an attractive option at Island Lake Lodge. — Mike McPhee photo

2 of 2Summertime hiking at Island Lake Lodge—whether guided or independent—is good for the soul as well as the body. — Mike McPhee photo

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With just 26 guest rooms distributed among three lodges, the world-famous Island Lake Lodge near Fernie, B.C., is an intimate, small-scale operation in a magnificent, large-scale natural setting. The resort is a magnet for powder-skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, and it’s on National Geographic’s list of most authentic and unique places to stay in Canada.

Though the summer recreational options are less dramatic than the winter ones on this 7,000-acre property, they are certainly popular. Hiking—including guided hiking—is one option, and the fly-fishing is known to be world class.

“We put a lot of effort into maintaining our hiking trails,” said Mike McPhee, director of sales and marketing at Island Lake Lodge. “For scenic beauty, the forests, the lake and the mountains rival anything in the national parks and are truly spectacular. The ecosystem has old-growth coastal-style forest that’s unique in the Rocky Mountains, with some 800-year-old cedars.”

The Fernie area is well known as a trout fly-fishing destination—and as one of the best places to stay in the area, Island Lake Lodge is popular with fly-fishermen.

The lodge is well equipped to handle corporate groups and social gatherings, with meeting rooms available and fine dining in its 100-seat dining room. And just a five-minute walk to the lake from the lodge, McPhee said, is one of the most stunning backdrops for a wedding that you’ll ever see.

For a romantic Island Lake Lodge getaway, consider a day of hiking, a visit to the full-treatment spa, time in the outdoor Jacuzzi complete with a breathtaking view, then a wonderful evening meal followed by a glass of something on your private balcony under the stars. Sweet.