When Scarlett Johansen and Ryan Reynolds chose to get married at the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort on Vancouver Island, it wasn’t just because the only accessible by boat or helicopter resort offered then privacy and respite from the paparazzi. Their marriage may have only lasted a Hollywood minute, but they still had good reason to choose that location to do the deed.
Vancouver Island is a perfectly gorgeous spot to tie the knot, or just go spend a romantic time at, and there are a number of luxuriously appointed resorts that cater to all budgets (especially in this current economic climate where there are incredible deals to be found at this destination).
Vancouver Island has an almost Mediterranean Climate, with long warm summers and great wild beauty.
For those seeking a traditional wedding there are grand ballrooms and exquisite fine dining restaurants in Victoria (where the Government of British Columbia sits, and there are consequently many beautiful and charming historical buildings) but for those looking for something different there are resorts where you can go to grizzly bear habitats, hike through old-growth forests or while away your time whale or storm watching from your beachfront room.
If you’re looking for a pretty and unique destination wedding, check out one of these fabulous resorts:
The Aerie Resort and Spa, is spectacularly romantic – rooms have fireplaces, twin baths set in the centre of them and stunning views over the Cowichan Valley.
The Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, where Johansson and Reynolds wed offers spectacular ‘prospector-style’ luxury tents nestled in to the rainforest canopy, a myriad of nature based activities (horse riding, hikes with First Nations guides, kayaking, access to local hot springs) as well as fine dining from locally sourced foods and an amazing spa.
The Wikaninnish Inn, in the gorgeous surf mecca resort of Tofino, sits right on the beach and their spa was voted best in the world by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine! Rooms have fireplaces, soaker tubs and balconies overlooking the ocean.
The Empress Hotel, this chateau styled historical masterpiece in downtown Victoria holds an abundance of old world charm and high-class luxury.
The Rockwater Resort in Secret Cove isn’t exactly on Vancouver Island, but is en route, and is a private paradise offering thirteen fully appointed and luxurious ‘tenthouses’ overlooking the Pacific Ocean complete with king-size beds and two-person tubs.