In This Article

Ready to escape with your special someone to somewhere breathtaking? These top romantic getaways in British Columbia offer mountain views, ocean breezes, and intimate experiences made for two.

If you are in a hurry, I recommend:

  • Unwind in a luxury cabin or lakeside lodge in Whistler.
  • Stroll hand-in-hand through Butchart Gardens near Victoria.
  • Relax with wine tastings and vineyard views in the Okanagan Valley.
  • Cozy up at a beachfront resort on Salt Spring Island.
  • Enjoy ocean sunsets, fine dining, and spa treatments in Tofino.

Unique Romantic Getaways in British Columbia:

1. Emerald Lake Lodge, British Columbia

Emerald Lake Lodge, British Columbia

© Emerald Lake Lodge

  • Where is Emerald Lake Lodge located?
    • The rustic Emerald Lake Lodge in British Columbia was built in 1902 by the Canadian Pacific Railway.
  • What can visitors do in Yoho National Park?
    • Yoho National Park, just 25 miles west of Lake Louise, is known for its hiking and cross-country ski trails.
  • Is transportation available to Lake Louise Ski Area?
    • The Lodge has a complimentary shuttle bus to the Lake Louise Ski Area in the winter.
  • Is heli-skiing available nearby?
    • Excellent heli-skiing is available at Purcell Heli-Skiing.
  • What is the Burgess Shale and why do fossil hunters visit?
    • Fossil hunters come from around the world to visit the Burgess Shale on Mt. Burgess.
  • What can guests do to relax at the lodge?
    • If you get tired after all the outdoor adventures, you can always sit in the lodge's hot tub and watch the Northern Lights.
  • What are the accommodations like?
    • Each of the 85 guest rooms are housed in alpine cabins which surround the main lodge building.
    • All rooms are equipped with wood burning fireplaces, private bath, telephones and a coffee maker.
  • Where can guests dine at the lodge?
    • Mt. Burgess Dining Room offers hearty Rocky Mountain Cuisine.
    • The impressive log structure of Cilantro on the Lake is a popular dining spot in summer and a meeting facility in the winter.
  • What are the lounge and beverage options?
    • The Kicking Horse Lounge is great for drinks any evening and tea is served on the verandah in the summer.
  • How far is the lodge from Calgary?
    • The lodge is 10 kilometers off of the Trans Canada Highway and a 2.5 hour drive from Calgary. (800-663-6336, 403-410-7417)

2. The Wickaninnish Inn on Vancouver Island

The Wickaninnish Inn on Vancouver Island

© The Wickaninnish Inn

  • Where is The Wickaninnish Inn located?
    • The Wickaninnish Inn is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island in Canada overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
  • What kind of vacation experience does the inn offer?
    • The inn is a beautiful, romantic vacation hideaway surrounded by the ocean and a forest.
    • If you are looking for secluded vacation spots, this is the destination for you.
  • What beach is near the inn?
    • Chesterman Beach, one of the nicest beaches in Canada, is located just steps from the inn.
  • What activities are available to guests?
    • Guests can choose from a variety of activities, such as whale watching, sea-kayaking and nature tours.
  • What treatments are offered at the spa?
    • The Ancient Cedars Spa offers a number of spa treatments using natural ingredients and custom blended aromatherapies.
    • Guests can choose from hydrotherapy, hot stone massage, reflexology, acupressure, body scrubs, wraps and customized body masques.
  • What type of spa is it?
    • The Ancient Cedars Spa is an Aveda-concept spa based on principles of Ayervedic medicine.
  • What are the guest rooms like?
    • There are 46 guest rooms featuring elegant rustic design and local artwork.
    • The rooms have magnificent ocean views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies and oversized bath tubs.
  • What dining experience does The Pointe Restaurant offer?
    • The Pointe Restaurant provides a 240 degree view of the Pacific Ocean.
    • The menu incorporates local produce such as giant roasting oysters, Tofino smoked salmon, mushrooms and locally produced goat cheese.
  • What natural attractions are nearby?
    • The hotel and Chesterman Beach border Pacific Rim National Park, a 30-mile area of rugged coastline on the west coast of Vancouver Island and a great vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • What is the best season for outdoor activities?
    • Summers are warm and offer the widest selection of outdoor activities.
    • Whale watching season is March through May.
  • How do you get to the inn?
    • The hotel can be reached either by air from Vancouver and Seattle, or by automobile.
    • Travel time is approximately 50 minutes from Vancouver International Airport.
    • The inn provides shuttle service to and from the Tofino Long Beach Airport.
  • Are there any special packages available?
    • There are several packages you can choose from, including romance, spa, gourmet and nature lovers packages (800-333-4604, 250-725-3100).

3. Assiniboine Lodge, Canada's Oldest Backcountry Ski Lodge

Assiniboine Lodge, Canada's Oldest Backcountry Ski Lodge

© Assiniboine Lodge

  • What is Assiniboine Lodge?
  • Where is the lodge located?
    • Located in the Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park in the beautiful British Columbia's mountains, the lodge is the ultimate adventure getaway for skiers in the winter and hikers in the summer.
  • Has the lodge been recently renovated?
    • The property is now open, following an extensive renovation led by BC Parks.
  • When was the lodge originally built?
    • Originally built in 1928 by the Canadian Pacific Railway as the first ski lodge in the Canadian Rockies, the lodge's foundation started to fail.
  • What was done during the renovation?
    • During the renovation, the historic building had to be rolled 50 feet forward onto the meadow to rebuild the foundation.
    • The original ambiance was carefully preserved during the restoration.
  • How many guests can the lodge accommodate?
    • The full service hotel can accommodate 30 guests at a time in 7 private cabins and 5 lodge rooms.
  • What activities and services are offered?
    • Activities and services include guided hiking and ski touring, gourmet meals, warm showers, rolling in the snow after a sauna and goose down duvets.
  • How do guests reach the lodge?
    • The property is 28 kilometers from the nearest road and completely off the grid.
    • The lodge is only accessible by helicopter, hiking or skiing.
  • Is advance booking recommended?
    • The property tends to sell out during peak times so be sure to book ahead of time. (403 678 2883)

4. Hastings House on Salt Spring Island

Hastings House on Salt Spring Island

© Hastings House

  • What is Hastings House?
  • What does the resort offer?
    • This seaside resort offers scenic island views, 18 unique rooms and suites, a restaurant and a spa.
  • What kind of dining experience is available?
    • The hotel restaurant serves regional cuisine complemented by artfully selected wines from the area and from around the world.
  • What spa services are available?
    • On your romantic getaway indulge in relaxing treatments at The Spa which offers a varied menu of services.
  • What activities can guests enjoy?
    • Other vacation activities include shopping and romantic walks in the nearby village, hiking, sailing, whale watching, kayaking and fishing.
  • Can you plan a wedding at Hastings House?
    • Plan a wedding at this hideaway in British Columbia.
    • You can get married on the water's edge in the summer, and take stunning wedding photos in the hotel's flower gardens.
  • Are garden tours available?
    • The head gardener Shelley Kobylka is available for private garden tours, just be sure to ask ahead of time at Reception.
  • Does the hotel use its own gardens?
    • Hastings House has its own kitchen gardens for fresh flowers, vegetables, greens and herbs.
    • Bountiful orchards grow sweet fruits and berries.
  • Who owns Hastings House?
    • Bonny O'Connor and Jerry Parks, owners of the hotel, support the local art community by showcasing sculptures in the gardens and throughout the hotel. (250-537-2362)

5. Rockwater Secret Cove Resort

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort

© Rockwater Secret Cove Resort

  • What is Rockwater Secret Cove Resort known for?
    • Couples who stay at the Rockwater Secret Cove Resort in Sunshine Coast, British Columbia will be struck by the idyllic and romantic ambience.
  • What are the rooms like?
    • Many of the rooms have gorgeous views and spacious quarters, giving you the ultimate comfort during your stay.
  • What amenities do the rooms offer?
    • Most of the rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, televisions with cable, a coffee and tea maker, terry bathrobes, and a telephone.
  • What outdoor activities are available?
    • Guests can enjoy many of the outdoor activities offered at the resort, including hiking, biking, and yoga classes.
  • What facilities are available on the property?
    • On the property, there is also a dock at the beach, a kayak center, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beautiful Zen garden.
  • What spa services are offered?
    • The on-site spa offers guests tempting treatments such as massages, facials, and esthetics.
  • Does the resort have a restaurant?
    • You don’t have to travel too far to find fine dining – the resort has an excellent restaurant where guests can savor their meals while enjoying the view the large windows provide.
  • What meals are available and what’s on the menu?
    • There are breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, all of which offer a pleasant variety.
    • The lunch and dinner entrees include everything from burgers and seafood to duck and venison. (877-296-4593)

6. Painted Boat Resort

Painted Boat Resort

© Painted Boat Resort

  • What is British Columbia known for?
    • British Columbia is famous for its pristine wilderness, beautiful views and lush forests.
  • What does Painted Boat Resort offer?
  • Where is the resort located?
    • The resort is located two hours from Vancouver in Pender Harbour.
  • What daytime activities are available?
    • During the day, spend your time outdoors hiking and enjoying a selection of water-based adventures.
  • What can guests do at night?
    • At night, watch the starry night sky.
  • What kind of spa services are offered?
    • The resort offers a spa which can help you get over the jet lag and jump-start your vacation relaxation.
    • The spa offers ocean-inspired therapies featuring rich seaweed and salts.
    • Choose from detoxing and rejuvenating treatments, relaxing massages and healing wraps.
  • What amenities are available at the resort?
    • The infinity pool is open during the warmer season.
    • The resort has a fitness center, hot tub, kayak rentals, and a deep-water marina.

7. The Fairmont Empress Hotel

The Fairmont Empress Hotel

© The Fairmont Empress Hotel

  • What is The Fairmont Empress Hotel?
  • What experiences does the hotel offer?
    • Check into this historic hotel to explore Victoria, get pampered at the spa, and engage in exciting activities such as ocean bound whale watching.
  • When did the hotel open and who has stayed there?
    • The hotel opened in 1908 and has a long history.
    • It has attracted many celebrity guests, including Rita Hayworth, Katherine Hepburn, Roger Moore, John Travolta, Barbara Streisland and Harrison Ford.
  • What spa services are available?
    • The Willow Stream spa offers exclusive and specialized treatments using natural resources and indigenous ingredients such as purifying algae, rare muds, essential oils and herbs.
  • What activities are available nearby?
    • Other activities guests can enjoy nearby include golf, kayaking, tennis, shopping, fishing, mountain biking, eco-tours, sailing and hiking.
  • Can guests host events at the hotel?
    • If you are planning a wedding, a reunion or organizing a company business meeting, the hotel offers six meeting rooms and a ballroom.
    • The Victoria Conference Centre with 40,000 square feet of meeting space is attached to the hotel.
  • What are the guest rooms like?
    • Choose from 476 guest rooms with antique furnishings, including suites and Entrée Gold rooms and suites.
    • Guest rooms have great views of the city, courtyard, or Victoria's Inner Harbour.
  • What dining options are available?
    • Elegant dining is offered in the The Empress Dining Room which has been awarded a AAA 4 Diamond rating.
    • Other dining options include The Bengal Lounge, a Victorian club lounge, and Kipling's, a casual family restaurant.
    • Tea at The Empress is a daily afternoon tea service that has been offered at the hotel for over 90 years.
  • What attractions are there in Victoria?
    • Victoria is a charming city with art galleries, gardens and antique shops.
    • Guests can visit Butchart Gardens, Royal British Columbia Museum and local wineries.
    • If you are looking for something romantic, try the horse-drawn carriage ride.
  • How can guests get to the hotel?
    • Victoria's International Airport is a 30 minute drive from the hotel.
    • Taxis are available at the airport.
    • A great way to arrive to Victoria is by sea. Take the ferry or the high-speed catamaran and enjoy a scenic ride.
    • Check the hotel web site for seasonal offers and packages.

Honeymoon in British Columbia:

8. The Magnolia Hotel & Spa in Victoria

The Magnolia Hotel & Spa in Victoria

© The Magnolia Hotel

  • Where can I go for a relaxing weekend getaway in Victoria?
  • What does the hotel offer?
    • The hotel offers stylish guest rooms and a luxurious spa with seven treatment rooms.
  • What treatments does Spa Magnolia specialize in?
    • You will feel pampered from head to toe at the Spa Magnolia which specializes in organic health and beauty treatments.
  • What are the guest rooms like?
    • Guest rooms are decorated in contemporary style with traditional touches, including floor-to-ceiling windows and deep soaker tubs in the bathrooms.
  • What makes the Diamond Room special?
    • Ask for a Diamond Room with a view of the Victoria Harbour which is especially romantic.
    • This room has a 10-foot ceiling and a fireplace, perfect for a romantic spa weekend getaway.
  • Where can guests dine?
    • Have dinner at Catalano Restaurant which serves Mediterranean cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Where can guests relax with a drink?
    • Cicchetti Bar is a great place to relax with a cocktail or a glass of wine.
  • What are some nearby activities and attractions?
    • There are many fun activities and attractions to explore on your weekend getaway in Victoria, including shopping on Yates Street, Victoria's Chinatown and the historic Olde Town.

9. The Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside

The Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside

© The Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside

  • What is The Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside?
  • What makes the location ideal for skiers?
    • The lodge is situated near the Whistler Village Gondola and Blackcomb Excalibur Gondola base stations giving its guests access to 7,000 skiable acres.
  • What activities are available in the summer?
    • In the summer, the area offers four excellent golf courses, fishing, horseback riding, and water sports.
  • Is the hotel suitable for families?
    • The hotel is a great getaway for families.
  • What are the pool deck amenities?
    • The resort features a pool deck with spectacular views of the mountains.
    • The pool deck, open year-round, has a heated outdoor pool, two outdoor hot tubs and a Steam room.
  • What makes Whistler a top ski destination?
    • Whistler is one of the top ski resorts in North America with ski lifts operating November through June.
    • For those who want to ski in the summer, Blackcomb's Horstman Glacier operates from June to August.
    • The Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the largest ski area in North America, offer over 200 marked runs, 12 bowls and three glaciers.
  • Are there cross-country skiing options?
    • The Whistler Valley offers 17.5 miles of track-set cross-country trails, ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert.
  • What is Whistler Village like?
    • Whistler Village is a charming mountain village with numerous shops, boutiques, fine restaurants and cafes.
  • What other summer activities are available?
    • Other summer vacation activities include white water rafting, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rock climbing, and more.
  • What accommodations does the resort offer?
    • The resort offers 121 stylish suites with amazing views of the surrounding mountains and the village.
  • What is Dubh Linn Gate Pub?
    • Dubh Linn Gate Pub, popular with locals and visitors alike, has a traditional Irish pub atmosphere with pub food, a selection of imported beers, live music, and an outdoor patio.
  • How far is the hotel from Vancouver International Airport?
    • The hotel is located approximately 90 miles (2 hours) north of Vancouver International Airport.
  • What transportation options are available from the airport?
    • Transportation options from the airport to Whistler include scheduled bus services, rental cars, limousines, and luxury vans.

10. Nimmo Bay Resort

Nimmo Bay Resort

© Nimmo Bay Resort

  • What is Nimmo Bay Resort?
  • What is Heli-Fishing and how does it work?
    • Heli-Fishing guests are flown by helicopter to nearby rivers.
    • Choose from 30,000 square miles of land with elevation ranging from sea level to seven thousand feet.
  • What is included in the getaway?
    • The all-inclusive getaway provides all the necessary equipment and transportation.
  • What are Heli-Ventures?
    • Heli-Ventures include ocean-kayaking, river-rafting, whale-watching and heli-hiking.
  • Is the resort family-friendly?
    • Kids are welcome to enjoy the unique nature experience.
  • What wellness services are available?
    • If your muscles are sore at the end of the day, there are massage services, including Shiatsu, Ayurvedic, Reflexology and Reiki.
    • You can also relax in the waterfall hot tubs.
  • What are the resort’s environmental efforts?
    • The property has received several awards for its environmental preservation efforts.
    • The property recycles all of their garbage and uses environmentally-sound cleaning products.
    • Fishing is 100% catch and release.
  • What accommodations are available?
    • There are six ocean front and three river front chalets which can accommodate up to 18 guests.
    • Each chalet has two bedrooms, a bathroom and a living room with beautiful nature views.
  • What food and drink options are provided?
    • For breakfast, enjoy fresh home made bread and pastries.
    • Dinners are prepared by the house chef and incorporate fresh local seafood.
    • House wine is provided by three local wine companies.
  • When is the resort open?
    • The property is open from May to October.
  • When are the fishing seasons?
    • Salmon and Trout Fishing adventures take place from July 20 to October 20.
    • Cuthroat Trout and Char Heli-Fishing take place in April and May.
  • How do guests get to Nimmo Bay?
    • Guests can fly to Vancouver, Canada. From there, Pacific Coastal Airline flies to Port Hardy.
    • Guests are then flown by the resort helicopter – flight time from Port Hardy is about 25 minutes.
    • Visit their web site for other transportation options.

📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

  • Q: What makes British Columbia a diverse destination?
  • A: British Columbia offers stunning scenery, a wide range of outdoor activities, and exciting cities like Vancouver and Victoria, the province's capital.
  • Q: What cities in British Columbia are popular tourist destinations?
  • A: Popular cities include Vancouver, known for its vibrant urban culture, and Victoria, the charming capital of British Columbia.
  • Q: Is British Columbia a good destination for couples?
  • A: Yes, British Columbia offers perfect destinations for both a quick couples' getaway and an unforgettable honeymoon vacation.
  • Q: Are there accommodations for different types of travelers?
  • A: Whether you're looking for luxury resorts or cozy retreats, British Columbia provides accommodations that fit every interest and budget.

Map:


Plan Your Trip