Imagine your own island sanctuary, nestled in the heart of a wild and rugged archipelago off B.C.’s west coast. Rustic luxury. Immersed in nature. A beautiful reminder of how extraordinary travel within Canada truly is—and always will be.
Sonora Resort is just that kind of place, and I was lucky enough to experience it firsthand. Open seasonally from early May to mid-October, this remarkable destination is best booked sooner rather than later—this is one Canadian travel experience you don’t want to miss.
Accessible only by air or water, Sonora Island feels worlds away, enhancing its appeal as a private getaway. When you book, the resort arranges your travel, with the most seamless—and breathtaking—option being a flight aboard their private helicopter. Simply leave your car at Vancouver’s South Terminal in Richmond, hop on a 50-minute scenic flight over B.C.’s coastal beauty, and arrive at the resort’s helipad, where a warm and enthusiastic welcome awaits. For those who prefer the sea, a water taxi from Campbell River is also available.
As a proud member of Relais & Châteaux—an esteemed global association known for its exceptional hotels, chefs and culinary excellence—Sonora Resort brings a high level of luxury to the Canadian wilderness. I’ve stayed at other Relais & Châteaux properties in my travels, so my expectations were high. They were exceeded.
Once on solid ground, we were escorted to our ocean-facing guest room, a cozy post-and-beam retreat with floor-to-ceiling windows, elegant amenities and a quiet luxury that encourages deep rest. After settling in, we set out on one of the forest hiking trails to breathe in that pristine island air—cool, fresh, and instantly restorative.
Dinner at the Tyee Dining Room that evening was a culinary delight. We opted for the chef’s tasting menu, which celebrated local seafood, seasonal ingredients, and B.C. wines. The lodge’s inviting fireplace drew us in for a nightcap near the adjacent bar, a perfect end to a perfect day.
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we made our way to the pier for a private eco-adventure tour aboard a 28-foot zodiac. Outfitted in waterproof and insulated gear, we set off with our knowledgeable local guide, who pointed out everything from churning Steller sea lions to swooping seabirds in search of fish. The highlight? Spotting humpback whales from a safe distance, including calves with their mothers—an unforgettable, awe-inspiring experience brought to life through binoculars and quiet reverence.
Of course, no luxury retreat is complete without a spectacular spa—and Sonora’s Island Currents Spa more than delivers. Our treatments were tranquil and rejuvenating, but it was the Wellness Water Journey that truly elevated the experience. Beginning with a relaxing sauna, we then cycled through a sequence of outdoor pools: a warm mineral soak, a Swiss shower, and a bracing cold plunge that invigorated body and mind. The cold treatment trend is said to help with inflammation, but even more immediately, it shakes off any lingering stress. I can confirm: I felt fantastic afterward.
Whether you seek nature, indulgence, or simply a break from the everyday, Sonora Resort offers it all—wrapped in the peaceful rhythm of the Pacific Northwest. It’s a reminder of the wild beauty that exists in our own backyard, and just how luxurious homegrown travel can be. —Catherine Dunwoody
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