10 Miles from Town – 10,000 Miles from Civilization

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Located just 20 minutes from the idyllic mountain town of Fernie, British Columbia, Island Lake Lodge sits in the Lizard Range of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Three dramatic limestone spire peaks known as “The Three Bears” rise high into the blue sky, keeping guard over the backcountry lodge that has become a world famous destination for summer travelers and powder skiers alike.

The 7,000 acre Island Lake property has a very unique eco system.  800-year-old Cedar, Douglas Fir and Spruce trees seem more akin to the coastal rainforest than the Rocky Mountains.  The unique micro-climate produces a lot of snow in the winter and sustains an Old Growth forest. The Island Lake operation has four beautiful cabin style log buildings with 2 dining areas, 26 guest rooms, conference facilities and a full spa – the serenity of the location is simply unparalleled.

The inspiration derived from the unique surroundings, the Island Lake Spa features five treatment rooms, a couple’s wellness room with deep Japanese soaking tub, retail boutique, change rooms and relaxation rooms. The 2014 Spa Menu utilizes top of the line handmade organic skin care products.

While best known for the bottomless powder in the winter, summer does not provide any shortage of activities to enjoy.  Some of the best-marked and maintained hiking trails in the area crisscross the 7,000 acres of private and pristine wilderness.  There is a nice selection of trails from easy jaunts around the lake to more adventurous guided trips. Late July or early August is a great time to visit when the wildflowers are in full bloom and for those who love to learn, the resort’s guides can be booked to speak about the local floral and fauna.

The surrounding rivers are home to some of the best fly-fishing in North America.  The Elk River and its tributaries hold Westslope Cutthroat and giant Bull Trout. Both of which are indigenous to the area and excellent sport fish.  Island Lake packages with local guide outfitters for unparalleled fly-fishing experiences.

If the lure of a deep-rooted local history and secluded stay are not enough to draw you to this magnificent location, the Island Lake food program is a must do in its own right.  The proud creators of a bestselling gourmet cookbook the resort’s culinary team refers to their food approach as simple – complexity without complication.

“We use our best efforts to source organic and traditionally raised foods and prepare them with unpretentious flavourings and well-executed techniques,” says Executive Chef Keith Farkas.  With the belief that there should always be strong connections between plate, planet, people and culture and a commitment to the local community Keith can be found every Sunday at the local farmer’s market purchasing fresh seasonal produce from local farmers and community gardeners.

Compliment your menu selection with a hand selected pairing from the 3,000 bottle wine library and book into one of the luxurious rooms for a pampered experience you will not be soon forget.

It’s time you experienced one of the jewels of the Canadian Rocky Mountains

Island Lake Lodge can be reached by telephone at 1-888-422-8754 or online at www.islandlakelodge.com.