At the water’s edge on the Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island is an unforgettable retreat into nature’s beauty – Wild Renfrew. The seaside cottages overlooking a private beach with beautiful rustic interiors and all the modern comforts you could hope for. Just a 2 hour scenic drive from Victoria, it is a short trip to be immersed in rain forest, ocean and beach whether for a romantic weekend or a week-long getaway with friends. Wild Renfrew offers cottages of various sizes appropriate for couples, families and friends and is a destination during the sunny summer and storm season.
Our stay was in a two bedroom seaside cottage. It featured a beautifully decorated living room and electric fireplace, fully equipped kitchen with full fridge, dishes and pots, stove top and microwave, full bathroom with tub and shower, private deck with fire pit and waterfront views and supply closet with extra blankets, pillows, an ironing board and iron. Local and aboriginal art graced the walls as well as a large map of the area and the furniture was well coordinated and elegant yet forest themed.
The king sized bed as well as the two single beds had their own doors and windows and were dressed with soft and cozy down bedding and pillows.
The view from the private deck was breathtaking and featured a private beach. Walking out onto the rocks, with the soothing crash of waves, fresh ocean breeze and exploring the nearby wilderness was refreshing for the spirit. Watching the sun set behind the mountains as we warmed by our beach fire was unforgettable. Wild Renfrew is truly a place to go for renewal, comfort and exploration.
Wild Renfrew is located adjacent to the marina, perfect for those on a fishing charter or an eco tour. The Port Renfrew Pub is located next to Wild Renfrew, offering tasty local and pub fare. A short drive away is the Coastal Kitchen Café, also part of Wild Renfrew family. Food options are limited in Port Renfrew so be sure to check out the restaurant hours and plan ahead or pack your own meals. Helpful staff were glad to give suggestions on local natural attractions including recommendations on the best time to visit due to the changing tides. Wild Renfrew boasts a unique gift shop with souvenirs, local art and collectibles. A general store that carries essential items and snacks is a short drive away as is the town itself, and a gas station is currently being built in Port Renfrew.
Here are a few highlights in the Port Renfrew area:
Botanical Beach: Discover rich tide pools filled with shellfish and sea flora and enjoy a coastal forest walk to the beach. Check with the staff for the tide chart as low tide is the best time to view the tidal pools and it is a 20 min plus walk to the beach form the parking lot.
Port Renfrew is known as the tall tree capital of Canada and there are many tall trees and forest walks to explore. The Red Creek Fir is the largest Fir Tree in Canada at 73.8m (242’) and an estimated 700 to 1000 years old. Avatar Grove is 15 minute drive from the Wild Renfrew and boasts a giant Old Growth Cedar with a 14ft diameter burl amongst its old growth giants. Both require 4 wheel drive vehicles to access.
For a sandy beach and a nice place for a picnic lunch, try the nearby Pacheedaht Campgrounds and beach.
Other popular activities in Port Renfrew include fishing, surfing, wildlife viewing, kayaking and eco-tours. The West Coast Trail is open from May 1st to October for hikers and campers. A general store is open 7 days a week year round and offers the basics for camping and snacking. Currently there is no gas station in town, but one is scheduled to open in June 2017.
Heading into town stop by French Beach and if you are continuing on to Lake Cowichan, be sure to stop at Fairy Lake and view the magical tiny Douglas Fir growing from a log in the middle of the lake. It can be seen from the road and is definitely worth a picture.
Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages is a haven with all the comforts of home in beautiful wild Port Renfrew.
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