Checking In: Backeddy Resort & Marina, Sunshine Coast BC
At the beginning of the month, my good friend Laura and I took a road trip from Seattle to the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia. We had 2 nights booked at Backeddy Resort & Marina in the tiny town of Egmont. Neither one of us had been to this part of Canada and that was a large part of the allure.
Accessible by air or ferry service, the Sunshine Coast is part of the mainland, but has a very laid back island vibe. It's a commitment to get there, but I promise it's worth it.
Laura and I visited in shoulder season so it was too cold to partake in the areas popular water adventures. Regardless, we bundled up and braved the cold for a few hikes. The rest of our hours were filled with relaxation, creative projects, and daydreams.
Getting to the Sunshine Coast:
Overall a 6 hour trip from Seattle and includes;
- US - Canada Border Crossing
- One 30 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale
Ferry ride from Horeshoe Bay to Langdale. We enjoyed the view from inside and still needed to bundle up! Photo by Laura Hughes
The Resort & Check In:
Located on the beautiful Sechelt Inlet, the Backeddy property sits on 600 feet of remote shoreline and has five different types of lodging; waterfront cabins, large vintage cabins, small vintage cabins, inn rooms and geodesic domes. (I would love to return and stay in a dome during the summer). The reception area had already closed when we got there but our keys were left outside for us to collect. There didn't appear to be many staff on site, I assume because we were there during shoulder season and the resort was fairly quiet. We did cross paths with one of the employees after we picked up our keys and she pointed us in the direction of our cabin. All staff we came into contact with were welcoming and considerate.
Backeddy Resort & Marina, Sunshine Coast, BC
Inside the Cabin:
With the sun gone for the day and temperatures hovering in the low 30's, we hurriedly walked from our parking spot up the small green hill to our vintage cabin. Anticipating our arrival, the staff had turned on our heater and the room was gloriously warm. The wood burning stove was already loaded with newspaper and kindling too which was a nice touch! Our space was equipped with a double bed, a kitchenette, a bathroom with a shower, a full size bed that also served as a couch, a wood burning stove and a deck that overlooked the mountains and water. I would have loved a larger bathroom but It was simple and cozy, with just enough space for 2 people.
Inside our cedar-lined vintage cabin. Photo by Laura Hughes
Food & Drink:
Knowing that we would have a kitchen to cook in, we only ate out once. Conveniently, the resort has a pub that's popular with guests and locals. On the night we arrived, we had little energy to cook so we popped in for an early dinner. We were greeted by a friendly bartender who turned out to be our server as well. We were the second customers of the night, so we had our pick of tables and chose one next to the window overlooking the inlet. The bartender/server was highly attentive, made excellent recommendations, and fixed us delicious hot toddies. We shared a festive fall salad and a lamb pot pie. I rarely eat meat but was craving something warm and filling. The meal was both and we retired back to our cabin and fell asleep before 9pm.
Hiking to the rapids at Skookumchuk Narrows Provincial Park. Photo by Laura Hughes
Around the Resort: The resort is only a few minutes drive from the lush rain forest of the Skookumchuk Narrows Provincial Park. After visiting the Egmont museum, we began the mellow 4 km hike to the narrows and stopped at Roland Point to view the fierce and famous rapids. The trail is well-developed and takes about an hour to walk, maybe longer if you like to stop and take pictures.
Near the beginning, we passed the Skookumchuk Bakery, which is only open in the summer but said to be a 'must visit' post hike.
Check the tide tables to get a schedule of the best viewing times for the rapids. There is a 30 minute window on either side of the tide change so you don't have to worry about being right on time.
The Verdict: The property is unique and has a mix of vintage and new accommodations- options for everyone! It's in the most picturesque location and if you're looking for quiet, you'll find it here. The staff are super friendly and happy to share their knowledge of the area. There is spotty wi-fi near the reception area but you might as well give into a technology free week!
Not only would I recommend staying at the Backeddy Resort & Marina, I hope to return in the summer when I can enjoy the marina and go kayaking and swimming.
Thanks to Backeddy Resort & Marina for welcoming us. Our stay was complimentary and all opinions are my own.