Before the heightened excitement of summer hits, it’s fun to take a moment and reflect on what we’ve accomplished in the past year, and what a whirlwind it’s been.

I can’t believe we’re already reaching the one-year anniversary of the Wickaninnish Cookbook release! We dreamt about seeing it come to fruition for a long time, and it’s been incredibly gratifying to share it and hear the positive response from you all. With so many talented contributors, it should be no wonder it turned out so delicious and well-received. But hearing all the stories of bringing a bit of the West Coast home to your kitchens has been such a treat. And, did you know? Our cookbook was nominated for awards from Taste Canada and the International Association of Culinary Professionals! We are honoured to be evaluated alongside cookbooks from such gastronomic enterprises as Noma.

Speaking of culinary delights: in January we delivered the news that our Executive Chef of many years, Warren Barr, and his partner were leaving the Inn to follow a dream of opening their own establishment. That is Pluvio Restaurant and Rooms, and it is now open in Ucluelet—a big congratulations to Warren and Lily’s new beginning!

We were pleased to welcome Chef Carmen Ingham, who, since taking the helm of the talented Pointe kitchen brigade at the beginning of this year, is hitting his full stride and continuing the legacy of culinary excellence at the Inn. Watch out for his summer tasting menus, they’re sure to inspire new flavours in the dining room.

There are plenty of wonderful surprises to be found in these new developments, but also time to treasure long-lived institutions in the community and at the Inn. As the weather warms up, the Tofino Public Market opens for the season, and work at the Carving Shed—a hub of creativity and part of our heritage—continues. I highly recommend visiting both on your next visit.

We’re looking forward to a wonderful summer season ahead, and catching up on new tidings as much as sharing in timeless traditions with you all very soon.