A warm welcome

Anita and Randy Leskie welcome the world to Chalet in the Rockies

Anita and Randy Leskie of Chalet in the Rockies, Fairmont Hot Springs, B.C., show off the remaining half of one of Randy's famous breakfast frittatas. — Photo courtesy Anita Leskie

Chalet in the Rockies hosts Anita and Randy Leskie were inspired by the B&Bs they visited while in Europe. Anita talked to us about the business and about her love of the Columbia Valley.

What prompted you to open a B&B, and why here in Fairmont Hot Springs?

We are very sociable individuals. When we travelled in Europe we realized we loved the concept of bed-and-breakfast—opening our home to travellers with a multitude of backgrounds and experiences. It’s so nice to host a gathering of people, sharing experiences, exchanging ideas and making them feel relaxed and at home. We researched many areas and chose the Columbia Valley because it gets so much sunshine.

Your food gets raves—are you the cook?

No, not me. My husband, Randy, is an excellent cook. He started cooking when our kids were small—he’s very creative, though he’s never had any formal training. His breakfast frittatas are wonderful.

Do you get to take time off?

Oh yes, we have a very quiet period before the ski season starts, and this year we’re heading for southeast Asia. We’re doing our research and plan to join a tour—our planes, trains, buses and boats tour. Randy plans to take some cooking classes in Thailand.

In the summer we love to golf at Riverside Golf Course and we love taking our guests on hikes. If you want to give a European an experience they’ll remember forever, take them on a hike to Pedley Pass, or to Lussier Hot Springs. Our goal is to make sure they have the best experience available. We’re here to showcase the Valley.

Do you have a life philosophy that you’d like to share?

Life is short—get out there and enjoy it! As opportunities present themselves, just go with them. When you encounter obstacles, think of them as opportunities.