Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/130547
destinations » out & about Alpine oasis at Island Lake Lodge in the B.C. Rockies Upon arrival Mama, Papa and Baby Bear greet you. The three mountain peaks, part of the Lizard Range in the Kootenay Rockies, rise high above the log-cabin-luxe resort that's tucked in the valley by Island Lake. In this corner of southeast B.C., Island Lake Lodge is far from the daily distractions of city life – trees loom large, silence reigns, stress evaporates. There's hiking, mountain biking, fly-fishing, canoeing, even golf . . . take your pick. Island Lake Lodge itself has 11 hikes that range from an easy jaunt around the lake to a guided overnight trek in the alpine. The Old Growth Cedar Trail winds under cover of towering 800-yearold red cedars. It's surreal . . . especially glimpsing century-old names etched in trees that have long outlived the carvers, like "Steele," possibly the mark of legendary Sam Steele of the NorthWest Mounted Police. The region is full of history. Nearby Fernie retains its early outpost vibe; heritage buildings date to the early 1900s. The town has survived fires, floods, even a curse brought on by coal miner William Fernie, who courted, and then abandoned, an aboriginal chief's daughter to source the black treasure. Red Eagle, namesake of one of the resort's lodges, lifted the curse and today this valley is definitely more blessed than anything. And the resort wants to keep it that way. Winner of an environmental achievement award from the Hotel Association of Canada, Island Lake Lodge is committed to being green and preserving its spectacular setting. Nature just oozes here, whether canoeing past jumping fish and families of baby ducks on the pristine lake or gazing up at those mountain-peak bears and a swooping bald eagle from the hot tub. Post soak, it's only a few steps to the spa, where a hot-stone treatment further loosens limbs. Relaxation rules – guestrooms evoke earthy decor with wide-plank floors and rough-hewn furniture (think alpine chic) and are blissfully free of TVs, phones and computer jacks. The cuisine, however, veers far from rustic. Based on local, organic ingredients, this is gourmet fare that changes seasonally and ranges from coconut-encrusted prawns to bison, with a 3,000bottle wine cellar to match. And all of it served with the region's renowned hospitality – the entire staff at Island Lake Lodge has a perpetual grin going. No wonder . . . look where they work. ■ – Barb Sligl PHOTOS (hikers) Mike McPhee; (food) Barb Sligl; (mountian view) Island Lake Lodge. See SOURCES on page 60 TAKE IT HOME Recreate the mood at Island Lake Lodge with these beautiful buys 58 | BC HOME & GARDEN June 2013 p58-59_Travel.indd 58 CRATE & BARREL'S Vista Adirondack Chair is a modern spin on a cabin classic with a squared-off backrest and slim and wide slats. $897.79 crateandbarrel.ca ISLAND LAKE LODGE'S The Cookbook offers up distinctive, regional cuisine and hearty fare highlighting fresh, organic and local ingredients. $29.95 amazon.ca CEDARCREEK CHARDONNAY is among the offerings available from the lodge's 3,000-bottle wine cellar. $17 cedarcreek.bc.ca 13-05-01 4:23 PM