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Romancing Fall at Parksville/Qualicum Beach

Monday, September 28th, 2009 by Cheryl MacKinnon

A relaxing, romantic soak that will wash away everyday stress.

A relaxing, romantic soak that will wash away everyday stress.

Ah, to escape the daily grind with an autumn getaway… yes, nothing but rest and relaxation, and absolutely no household chores. If this sounds too good to be true, head over to Vancouver Island and the incredibly wonderful Tigh-na-mara Seaside Spa Resort located in Parksville with your significant other for a romantic romp. In this time of restraint, here is a budget-savvy, mini-holiday that will have you fantasizing about your return before you board the ferry for home!

The Experience

Resting on 22 acres of land, it’s all lush, green forest and peek-a-boo ocean views as you enter the Resort (see video) from the coastal highway out of Nanaimo.  Gentle walking paths weave around the quaint cabins, then open up to the modern, beachside condominiums. Towering evergreens sway in the winds, while leaves of the elegant arbutus trees seem to hardly notice.

ParkvilleTNMsuite

Relax in style in an oceanfront condo with all the extras.

Truly, is there anything better for time-starved couples than a few days away in such a setting?  Perhaps warm laughter, soothing spa therapies and great food and wine?  The Resort’s Grotto Spa team delivers this and more. Visualize the two of you melting into a warm mineral water pool or standing in a cozy embrace under a two storey waterfall. From here indulge in a couples’ facial and pedicure. Or, go for my favourite … a peaceful soak à deux in one of the spa’s locally sourced, hand-tinned copper tubs – complete with champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries. Continue the experience with your personal massage therapists to release any lingering tensions and you will be relaxed beyond belief.  What arguably could be the best part? You decide as fresh from the massage table, you head over to an intimate corner dining table in the Spa’s private dining room, Tree Tops Tapas & Grill. Here you will join satisfied spa-goers decked out in fluffy bathrobes with hair askew and skin positively glowing.  You and yours will further unwind over a glass of wine while savouring an utterly delectable meal of west coast flavoured tapas. Linger and nibble for as long as you care to…then head back to your private condo.  Welcome to a decadent turn down service of rose petals, iced champagne and a glowing fire gracing that dreamy ocean view! I guarantee you will rise the next morning completely re-charged.

A loaf of bread, a jug of wine,... and Little Qualicum Cheeseworks.

A loaf of bread, a jug of wine,... and Little Qualicum Cheeseworks.

Get Going

Parksville & Qualicum Beach offer fabulous touring possibilities at any time of year however this is an especially appealing region in fall. The summer crowds are gone but the beaches never close. The air is incredibly fresh, cool and crisp, so breathe deep then head out and discover fabulous eagle and bear watching.  Be extra careful with the latter, staying in your vehicle to take pictures. While the bears are very beautiful, they are very wild creatures. Another fun stop is at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks.  Sample yummy natural cheeses including Brie and Island Spice, as well as a good selection of fruit wines made on site too – buy some to enjoy back at your room too.  And if you’re in need of a bit of sport, check out the salmon fishing too. There are five species in this area alone plus bass, steelhead, cutthroat and halibut.  Parksville and Qualicum Beach lure fall fisherman to cast their luck.  Imagine…peace, quiet and fish that bite!

This entry was posted on Monday, September 28th, 2009 at 2:34 pm and is filed under Parksville, Qualicum Beach. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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