June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Sightseeing Tours
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To get to Bella Coola, you have to drive the Big Hill. It is on highway 20, and heads through Tweedmuir Provincial Park before winding through to the Bella Coola Valley. It was definitely one of the top drives I've done in a long time. From the top of the hill, you have large snowcapped mountains, crystal blue lakes and thin trees. By the time you get to the bottom of the hill, which is only 22km in total, you are into lush, rainforest type vegetation yet still with the spectacular coast mountains.
It is a great drive, and even though its steep, and the hairpin turns may be little scary, but the views are great, and the destination is fantastic. Besides, you're allowed to wear the "I drove the Big Hill and survived" t-shirt when you are done!
June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Williams Lake, Attractions
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If you travel through the Chilcotin, highway 20 will take you to many of the areas you'll want to visit. There is so much along the road: there are endless stops to make for photo opportunities or just sightseeing. One of these stops was close to Alexis Creek, a little cemetary on the side of the road. The beauty of the mountains in the area really adds to the stop, and the golden grass growing around the plots made it a very calming resting place, even though its along a major roadway. Be sure to keep your eyes open all along this highway as there is so much to see!
June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Arts, Culture & History Tours
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When we arrived at Chezacut Ranch, we had the chance to take a little tour of the farm. Having been to many ranches growing up, I thought I had seen them all, but Chezacut was quite different. We saw the typical cows, pigs, sheep and other critters found on farms but learned about how the Ranch operates more sustainably and enivronmentally friendly. Although the ranch itself mostly operated horseback adventures, the hosts can tell you all about the practices of a organic farm, and the steps they take to ensure a high quality, ethical product.
And for those with kids, there are plenty of cute dogs and baby animals for all to enjoy!
June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Accommodation
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We got up fairly early the morning we left the Bella Coola area, but we did have breakfast at the Eagle Lodge, which is right outside town of Bella Coola. We had a fantastic little breakfast of pancakes and eggs, which was absolutely appreciated after our long day touring the coast!
The Lodge itself was quite beautiful and well kept, complete with a little hot tub, cozy rooms and friendly hosts. We had a wonderful chat with Rose, the owner, who had lots to tell us about all the great things to do in the area; from hikes to sights, we could have easily spent another week there with the new info she gave us! Too bad... guess I'll just have to plan another trip!
June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Accommodation
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We rolled into Bella Coola a little exhausted from our trip down the 'big hill' and were relieved to settle into Coast Mountain Lodge, just outside of Bella Coola in a town called Hagensborg. It was a beautiful little lodge, with easy access to all the activities in the area and a real modern design inside the log cabin exterior. There was a little cafe bar inside the main office where you could get a nice specialty coffee - this was certainly not expected but was absolutely appreciated.
The lodge was a great homebase for our quick stay in the Bella Coola area and it was only a quick drive to the ocean, to hikes, to restaurants and other activities. Definitely would love to go back and spend some more time and maybe take a wilderness tour offered by the hotel!
June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Guest Ranches & Horseback Riding
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The morning after our stay at Free Rein Ranch, our host took us out on a 2 hour trail ride. We had the opportunity not only to ride, but also to catch our own horses, prepare and saddle them as well. That was a pretty cool experience. Apparently for guests who stay they quite a bit of time are taught a whole bunch about horsemanship and riding. Would have been cool to spend more time learning!
The ride we took was quite pleasant and gentle, but we saw quite a bit. From rolling farm lands, to a little creek bed and heavy wooded areas, the scenery was every changing and quite relaxing. My horse, Casper, was as 'friendly' as can be and I really enjoyed having the chance to ride again after many years of not riding. Hey, and they even suited us up with real cowboy boots!!
June 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Kayaking & Canoeing
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We spent an evening at Free Rein Ranch, just off of highway 24 and south of Bridge Lake. It was a lovely evening out and we go ourselves a canoe and kayak and headed out onto the essentially private lake on the property. Paddling around the lake at sunset was incredible. What a way to spend an evening: still lake, gorgeous scenery and a a little bit of wildlife (loons!) to top it all off!
The evening continued with a little game of pool with the host of the ranch, Debbie. We stayed in one of the lake front cabins, which was very comfortable and private. In all, I would love to go back just to paddle a little more on the little lake!
May 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Attractions
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When we got to Escott Bay Resort, the owner, Bill, said we had to see Precipice Falls and Canyon. He referred to it as the Baby Grand Canyon, so clearly, we just had to see what he was talking about. He led us to an unmarked turnoff on the road and we only had to walk a short distance to see the spectacular view he was referring to.
The canyon opens up in an area you would not have expected it to, filled with lush trees and large scree faces. The fall were stunning, and a surprising amount of water flowed over them, creating a crashing sound that echoed through the valley. We were told the canyon itself and the water flowing through it makes its way down to the Bella Coola coastline.
In all, it was a great stop, but you would definitely need to stop in at the Lodge or at ask a local for directions, as the location is not signed from the highway. It is well worth the effort!
May 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Accommodation
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When we arrived at Escott Bay, I thought it would be just a fishing resort but it turned out to be an impressive cowboy experience (and fishing resort!). We not only were treated to a great view of Anahim Lake, but we were delighted when Bill, the owner, demonstrated how to pack a pack horse for an overnight trail ride and shared with us his admiration and enthusiasm for the beautiful area around Escott Bay.
May 18, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Accommodation
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We spent two nights at the Clearwater Lake Lodge, and I must say, it filled my expectations of a perfect, relaxing retreat! The main lodge and suites are comfortable, cozy and complete with a giant, hand built fireplace. The view from the lodge onto the lake is extraordinary and was coupled with various bird sightings throughout our stay.
The host, Gisela and Bernward, were absolutely delightful, and fed our group the most wonderful homecooked meals. Sharing their experiences in the area, they had plenty of local lore and history which added a great value to our stay. Berward was a great tour guide who led us on hikes and brought us to some of the many highlights in the area, such as Tatlayoko Lake. We had great fun learning and exploring with him! He even brought us out to see a nearby osprey nest.
Essentially, after having a great day exploring the Chilcotin, it is wonderful to come back to a place offering luxury, urban amenities with a flourish of great hospitality and company.