Adventure and Luxury Meet at Island Lake Lodge

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Hiking through a grove of 800-year-old cedars and along mountain ridges with magnificent views may seem at odds with chamomile body scrubs and hot stone massage treatments.But at Island Lake Lodge, only a 20-minute drive from Fernie, B.C, rugged mountain hikes and pampered treatments at a world-class spa come together in perfect harmony.

Sitting above a emerald green spring-fed lake, surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks, Island Lake Lodge Hiking and Mountain Spa is a unique combination of rustic mountain living and an upscale resort experience that features one-of-a-kind spa treatments, gourmet dining and alpine-inspired lodging.

Three lodges, 26 suites in total, are built in a log-cabin style of exposed wood beams and are furnished with hand-made wood furniture. Named the Tamarack, the Cedar and the Red Eagle, the lodges each have their own unique amenities. But all rooms in all three lodges have one thing in common: no phones, computer jacks or televisions, only comfy beds and views of mountain peaks. The lodges do have wireless connectivity, however, if you must bring your laptop. There are no distractions of modern life here, only quiet contemplation of natural beauty and rejuvenating treatments and replenishing, great food.

Guests can soak in an outdoor hot tub or take in a treatment or two at the spa, such as a moor mud wrap, a blend of soothing and healing botanicals from the medicinal waters of Hungary’s famed Sarvar Spring. Following ancient traditions of natural healing, the spa’s many treatments will not only soothe an aching body after a day of outdoor excursions, they will also replenish the spirit and mind.

It’s all part of the over-arching theme of the lodge — a calm and peaceful refuge from modern life. It’s also environmentally friendly. Having recently won an award for environmental excellence from the Hotel Association of Canada, Island Lake Lodge uses green practices whenever possible, including producing its own power, using earth-friendly micro hydro stations on site.

Guest can also enjoy exceptional fine dining. Some of Western Canada’s finest chefs have created healthy, delicious delicacies using local fare as well as some of the best organic and freshest ingredients from the West Coast and Interior B.C . Lunch is served on the Bear Lodge patio with views as inspired as the culinary offerings on the menu. A 3,000- bottle wine library from the Tamarack Lodge provides a wide selection of some of the best wines from the Okanagan and around the world.

But beyond the luxurious comfort of the lodge lays the real beauty and appeal of the backcountry. An old-growth, cedar forest — refreshingly cool on a hot summer day – provides its own natural aromatherapy. An inspiring cedar scent invigorates as you walk along one of the many paths, including the latest additions to the extensive hiking network, the Rail Trail. A restored former rail line used nearly a century ago for logging connects the valley through old growth forest to alpine meadow. It is one of many hiking options that range from challenging scrambles to leisurely nature walks.

It’s this splendid combination of backcountry adventure and resort-inspired luxury that sets Island Lake Lodge apart. With several different holiday packages available, there is a mountain retreat to suit everyone. Call 1-888-422-8754 or visit its website islandlakeresorts.com to book today.