British Columbia holds secrets that would take more than a lifetime to discover, even people who’ve lived here for decades haven’t seen all its corners. In fact, British Columbians call towns like Smithers and Prince George “Northern BC” but if you look on a map they’re smack in the centre as far as latitude goes! With so much wilderness, it’s no surprise we have several incredible properties to profile from our own “backyard.”

Tweedsmuir Park Lodge sits outside of Bella Coola—a coastal town a 70-minute flight north from Vancouver but a 12-14 hour drive through mountainous terrain! Until the 1950s, Bella Coola was only accessible by boat, and traveling by water is still one of the fastest ways to make your way around this area of the province.

The wonder of the fantastic outdoors is certainly the main attraction at Tweedsmuir Park Lodge who has a range of activities and guided tours through (or above by helicopter!) the Great Bear Rainforest, one of BC’s natural treasures. On your nature walks, heli-hiking excursions, wilderness river drifts or while out flyfishing, you’ll get to see plenty of wildlife, old growth trees and a spectacular coastline of fjords and islands here.

The First Nations of this area have lived in this region for over 10,000 years, and Tweedsmuir Park Lodge, located in traditional Nuxalk and Ulkatcho territory, offers guests a historically rich experience. Take a tour of Bella Coola’s towering totem poles, observe world-renowned woodcarvers in action and listen to stories that stretch back thousands of years.

The Lodge itself is nestled between the staggering granite slopes of the aptly-named Mt. Stupendous and Mt. Mellikan. First built in 1931, the Lodge burnt down in 1953 but was rebuilt by the owner, parts of which still stand today. While the Lodge hosts the dining room and social areas, there are separate buildings for the spa, gym and huge outdoor hot tub overlooking the Coastal Range. Ten chalets provide accommodation for guests, ensuring privacy and serenity after your journeys outdoors.

Delicious fare is included in your stay here, and, while the evening menu is set with seasonal and local ingredients, allergies and preferences are taken seriously (notify the team before your arrival). Flexible dining options—like picnic lunches to take out on your birdwatching excursion—will ensure your daily adventures are uninterrupted.

As one of “The Magnificent 7”—a group of “Luxury Wilderness Lodges of Canada”—a visit to Tweedsmuir Park Lodge will provide a life experience you won’t soon forget!