Located in central Vancouver Island, Campbell River’s newest boutique hotel, Naturally Pacific Resort, is modern, upscale and thoughtfully set up for a perfect getaway, whether you’re a golfer, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie or simply someone in need of R&R.
My husband and I enjoyed a night’s stay there on May 31st, just a few weeks after the resort opened on May 11th. We were on our way from Victoria to Port Hardy, and it was the ideal midway stop. Our fourth-floor room was spacious and well appointed, with a luxurious king bed, cozy seating nooks, a coffee/tea station, and a thoughtfully designed bathroom. A sliding door led to the balcony, with a spectacular view of the golf course and resort grounds.
The property boasts the Campbell River Golf Club, an 18-hole par 70 resort-style course, and the Velocity Driving Range and Sports Lounge, an indoor-outdoor space where you can not only hit some balls, but also socialize over food and drink. Think of a bowling alley with natural light and full table service. We did not have time on this stay, but, having seen the space, we plan to try our amateur swing at the bay and some happy hour bites at the lounge on a future visit.
For now I can tell you that dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant, Carve Kitchen + Meatery, was amazing. The restaurant is stylish and inviting. GM Justin Stevens joined us at the bar for cocktail hour and we had a great chat about the local family-owned hotel. I took the opportunity to share my appreciation of the hotel’s attention to detail, from its design and layout, to proper glassware.
Our meal began with a short rib rillette on an olive oil cracker, topped with onion, tomato jam and microgreens. We ordered the OMG Rings ($23) — thick house cut onion rings with duck confit and five-spice plum sauce — and a side of Mac and Cheese ($15) to start.
For our mains, my husband tucked into the citrus brined pork loin ($43) and I the glazed short rib with pea puree and potato croquette ($46). The BC Pinot Noir and Syrah we chose from the excellent wine menu paired well with the delicious food. The Creme Brulee ($12) we shared was on point also. We found the prices were on par with the quality and portion size, and we’d happily spend date nights here.
Last but not the least was our Immersion Spa + Wellness experience the next morning. We spent an hour soaking in the mineral pool, hydrating with sparkling water, rotating through the relaxing mint and energizing orange shower cycles, and unwinding with a hot cup of tea in the relaxation lounge. Whether you need to unwind after a long week in the office or rest after a day’s hike at nearby Strathcona Provincial Park, you will be sure to feel pampered and rejuvenated after a treatment here.
Other hotel amenities include an indoor heated pool that opens to the outside, where you will find a hot tub, and seating with a fire table and full bar service. The Elements Apparel + Golf Shop carries clothing, equipment and accessories for your next adventure.
The Naturally Pacific Resort is a destination in and of itself. My advice: spend a few nights here and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Review and images provided by Dianne Pringle @canadianne_eats #sponsoredpost
