Welcome
Welcome to Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge. We strive to create a truly memorable guest experience. If there is anything we can do to make your time at the lodge even more special, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist.
Our story
Lodge history
With a passion for sustainable development and a love for Clayoquot Sound on Vancouver Island, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge founder Richard Genovese always dreamed of owning a little piece of wilderness and creating a place where people could unwind, unplug, reconnect with loved ones and immerse themselves in the wild.
Richard’s vision was realised in 1995 when he purchased 160 acres in neighboring Quait Bay where he built a 16-room floating lodge, which opened for business in 1997. He added a tented wilderness outpost at the mouth of the Bedwell River, consisting of a few rustic tents to start and which grew into what is now known as Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge. The 600-acre property opened in 2000 as Canada’s premier eco-safari lodge, defined by exhilarating wilderness adventures and a commitment to protecting the area’s delicate rainforest ecosystem.
Sadly, Richard passed away in 2017 after a battle with cancer. The Clayoquot team strives to carry on his vision, working to protect and care for the land, ocean and wildlife of Clayoquot Sound in his honour. In 2019, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge came under ownership of KSL Capital Partners, a US-based investment firm specialising in travel and leisure, with a specific emphasis on hospitality and outdoor recreation. In 2021, the property became aligned with the Australia-based Baillie Lodges collection of boutique luxury lodges and a new era in Clayoquot’s living heritage was launched.
In 2024, the lodge was awarded Three MICHELIN Keys, one of just two lodges in Canada to hold the honour.
Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is located in the heart of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, listed in 2000 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). A diverse range of ecosystems exists within the biosphere reserve, including temperate coastal rainforest, ocean, rivers and rocky coastal shores.
Nine of the many large, forested valleys remain untouched by logging or industrial development. The area’s temperate rainforest, lakes, rivers and alpine peaks provide habitats for a vast array of flora and fauna, a significant number of which are endangered or rare. Given development is increasingly resulting in the fragmentation of forest and alpine ecosystems and a loss of biodiversity in coastal rainforests, the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve provides a sanctuary for the re-establishment of species.
This unique biosphere is accessible to the team and guests at Clayoquot as it ensures its longevity and sustainability through a commitment to environmental practices.
Travel for good
Sustainable luxury at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
Baillie Lodges works to enrich our guests, local communities and team members with a genuine and re-energising connection to unique landscapes, peoples and cultures. Here are a few examples of how we practice sustainable tourism.
• Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge has established an Environmental Legacy Program, funded privately by lodge guests through a 3% environmental surcharge to support sustainability initiatives.
• In 2024, the lodge revealed its new solar energy and battery microgrid system. As the largest solar project on Vancouver Island, the CAD$4.2million installation enables the camp to operate largely off-grid, or at least at a greatly reduced reliance on the diesel generator which had traditionally fuelled the property’s power needs. The installation uses smart technology for maximum efficiency and includes an 824kW ground-mounted solar photovoltaic array and a 375kW/1660kWh battery energy storage system. The installation comprises some 1512 solar panels and 255 battery modules to produce a substantial 1600 kilowatts of energy per hour.
• An extensive kitchen garden and greenhouse is maintained on the property where the team grow and harvest fresh greens, vegetables and herbs.
• A fleet of twenty e-bikes provides a fun, green way of getting from A to B, relieving the use of SUV vehicles for guest transfers around the vast property.
• A commitment to supporting local artisans and designers is essential to creating a strong sense of place. Guest tents feature handmade furniture by British Columbia-based Barter Design, organic linen and wool cushions by Cloth Tone using fleece produced on Vancouver Island and bentwood boxes by Tofino-based First Nations artist Moy Sutherland made from timber salvaged from Clayoquot Sound.
• Launched in 2024, the Baillie Lodges Spirit of Mateship program is an ongoing initiative dedicated to raising funds for nominated community, health, education and conservation organisations in each of our lodge locations. Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge supports the Redd Fish Restoration Society which was jointly founded in 1995 by forest loggers, First Nations communities, biologists and forestry professionals. The society now works to restore and preserve the native habitat of Vancouver Island’s wild fish stocks.
MOUNTAIN BIKING WALKING TRAILS
MARINE PICKUP/DROPOFF FIREPIT
Lodge
The Cookhouse
Located on the foreshore of Clayoquot Sound and welcoming magnificent views of its vast oceanic wilderness, The Cookhouse is the hub of dining, drinking and lounging. The main restaurant features an open kitchen promising entertaining coal-face style theatre and an innovative menu of locally sourced sustainable produce. Generous lounging flows to the decks outside, a perfect spot to relax and drink in the views. In the evenings a fire draws in guests for s’mores and shared stories. Adjacent canvas tents welcome special occasion or private dining, live music events and a friendly game of billiards.
The Ivanhoe
Named for Clayoquot’s vintage 110-foot landing craft boat, the SS Ivanhoe, The Ivanhoe rests at the very edge of the estuary where the Bedwell River spills into the Pacific Ocean. Located adjacent to the restaurant, The Ivanhoe is a dedicated bar and lounge with floor-to-ceiling glass welcoming in views of the sound. Inside, guests lounge with handcrafted cocktails in generous armchairs and on lounges warmed by a cosy fireplace, while outside the rooftop with open fires invites. A menu of canapés and bar snacks complements premium wines, craft beers and small-batch spirits.
Healing Grounds Spa
The Healing Grounds Spa is a sanctuary perched on the water’s edge where the rainforest meets the rhythmic currents of river and ocean. After magnificent adventures, guests’ muscles are eased with rejuvenating treatments from whole body wraps and facials enriched with local botanicals and marine minerals to foot therapy and deep tissue massage. A sauna provides peace, quiet and restorative warmth, while the deep hot tubs are the perfect post-adventure tonic with spectacular views by day and starlit views to the heavens by night.
Breakfast
7am - 9am
Lunch
12pm - 2pm
Pre-dinner drinks & canapés
From 5pm
Dinner
From 6pm until late Bookings are required to reserve preferred dining times.
How to book
A spa menu can be found in your desk drawer, or view the range of treatments online Appointments for the Healing Grounds Spa can be made with Guest Services.
Experiences
Signature experiences
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers guests a tailor-made itinerary of signature nature-based adventures including a wildlife-spotting marine excursion and canyoning down a glacier-fed waterfall channel. Guided hiking opportunities are plentiful and a fleet of watercraft awaits for on-water exploration.
Optional experiences
For guests wishing to explore more or pursue a special interest, a range of optional experiences offers inspiration. Guests can test their skills in rock climbing or set their sights in a game of archery, see what’s biting on an ocean fishing experience or saddle up for a horseback ride through the wilderness.
Wellbeing experiences
Wellbeing is woven into every aspect of a stay at the lodge creating an overarching sense of connectedness with nature. Begin the day with a gentle yoga flow and for an unforgettable way to commemorate the pristine Bedwell Valley, take a transformative glacial plunge.
Bespoke heli experiences
An aerial adventure exploring the vast, remote wilderness by helicopter makes a stay at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge truly unforgettable. The lodge offers options designed to suit every interest and occasion from heli hiking to sky-high sunset drinks. Our helicopter tours are operated by Atleo River Air Service Ltd.
Please note Signature experiences are provided on an intimate shared basis with fellow guests at scheduled times. Private touring is available subject to availability (additional cost applies).
Please note Optional experiences are included on a request basis and shared with fellow guests at scheduled times. Private touring is available subject to availability (additional cost applies).
Please note Wellbeing activities are offered on a shared basis at scheduled times. Private yoga and glacial plunge are options (additional cost applies).
How to book
Please talk to our Guest Services team for information and bookings.
Services & facilities
Backpacks
Backpacks are located in your tent for use when heading out to explore. If you wish to take a backpack home, they are available for purchase from the boutique.
Bathroom In-Floor Heating
There is a thermostat on the wall in the bathroom to control in-floor heating.
Bear Aware
As black bears live in the surrounding wilderness, no food, candy, snacks or beverages are permitted in your tent at any time. Find more in-depth information about wildlife awareness in later pages of this compendium.
Bikes
Complimentary adult mountain bikes are available for guest use. Please visit Guest Services for a map, water and helmet. Please note, the network of boardwalks connecting guest tents are for walking only; riding is not permitted.
Boutique
Open daily, the lodge boutique features a variety of wilderness essentials along with souvenirs made by local artisans.
Cast Iron Stoves
To operate your cast iron stove, please use the thermostat on the wall or on the column beside the bed. Please do not put things on top of the stove to dry.
Cellular Service
Due to our remote location, there is no cellular service at the lodge. There is a land line available for guest use at The Outpost.
Check-out & Departure
Check-out time is 12pm. Guests are asked to have luggage prepared for collection at this time. Kindly place your bags at the entrance of your tent and our team will retrieve them.
Guests departing outside the standard check-out time are welcome to enjoy the main lodge facilities. Flight departure times are at the advice of Seair Seaplanes. Our flights are scheduled to begin departing the lodge between 3.30pm and 5.30pm. Please enquire with the Guest Services team for your personalised departure times.
Credit Facilities
All products and services purchased at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge may be charged to your tent account and settled on check-out. Most major credit cards are accepted. Please note that we do not accept Diners Card, personal cheques or foreign currency.
Dogs
There are several dogs on property that belong to our staff who loyally form part of the Clayoquot team. The dogs are friendly and well behaved, but we ask that you please do not feed them. Please advise Guest Services should you have any concerns with any of the dogs.
Dress Code
Life is relaxed at Clayoquot where feeling at home is key. For your safety, we recommend footwear is worn at all times whilst outdoors and in guest lounging and dining areas. The dress code for dinner is smart casual.
Drinking Water
Tap water at the lodge is safe for drinking. A reusable bottle is supplied on arrival; keep hydrated with regular refills from the water urn located in your tent bathroom.
Guest Services
Our Guest Services team is available from 7am until late for any questions or requirements. For immediate assistance, please iMessage or WhatsApp +1 778 214 4655.
Gratuities
Staff gratuities are included in the tariff. If you would like to leave an additional gratuity for our staff, please see our Guest Services team.
Gym
Located next to the bike barn, the fitness studio features TechnoGym equipment including cardio and weight machines, free weights and a stretching area.
Hot Tub Etiquette
All hot tubs close at 10pm. Glassware is not permitted in or around the hot tubs. Alternative drinkware is available if you would like to enjoy a beverage while soaking. Out of respect for neighbouring guest tents please keep noise to a minimum.
Housekeeping
Our Housekeeping team services guest tents daily, generally whilst you are out and about. Should you require a specific time for the service, please advise Guest Services. In keeping with our commitment to sustainability, we provide fresh towels and bed linen every third day of your stay, unless advised otherwise.
Internet
Complimentary WIFI is available in your tent and at Guest Services. Consistent with the 'off-grid' nature of the lodge experience, WIFI is not available in the shared guest areas. To connect to the network, the password is wilderness
Laundry
Laundry service is available. Please place items in the laundry bag provided, leave it on your bed, and notify the Guest Services team to arrange collection. Laundry collected prior to 10am will be returned that evening. Due to our remote location, dry-cleaning services are not available.
Lost & Found
If you misplace an item, please let a staff member know and we will do our best to help you locate it.
Pillows
The pillows on your bed are made from luxurious Canadian goose down and hypoallergenic microfibre. A firmer option is available on request.
Power
Domestic power supply is 120 volts, at the standard frequency of 60 hertz. Adaptors are available for loan from Guest Services.
Privacy
Should you require privacy, please place the ‘Privacy Please’ rock along the entry walkway to your tent.
Quiet Hours
Out of respect for your fellow guests, we ask that you please observe quiet hours after 10pm.
Room Service
As the lodge thrives on a convivial lodging atmosphere, we do not offer full in-tent dining.
Safe
A guest safe is available at Guest Services. Please let the team know if you have any valuables you would like to store during your stay.
Safety Essentials
A flashlight, insect repellent, and bear horn are provided for your use. Please keep your tent zipped closed at all times to ensure insects and wildlife do not enter your tent.
Smoking
We appreciate you not smoking in the vicinity of the canvas tents or boardwalks. Smoking is permitted around the central firepit. Please assist in keeping our wilderness pristine and dispose of butts responsibly.
Social Media
We love to see your photos and even share them on our channels. Please tag our account or use the hashtag #clayoquotwildernesslodge to indicate permission to share your photos. Note: If your account is private, we are not able to see the tags.
Instagram: @clayoquotwildernesslodge Facebook: ClayoquotWildernessLodge
Spa
The Healing Grounds Spa offers a menu of restorative treatments for the mind and body. Bookings in advance are essential, please contact Guest Services. A yoga studio is available for guest use along with a sauna and cedar hot tubs.
Toilet
To maintain environmentally friendly standards, all bathrooms have low water volume facilities. Help us protect our ecosystem and avoid any issues with toilet water levels by placing all inorganic products in the waste receptacle.
Turndown
The turndown ritual is performed nightly. On returning to your tent after dinner, you’ll find it transformed into a night-time sanctuary. If you would prefer not to be disturbed, please display the ‘Privacy Please’ rock or notify Guest Services.
Safety in the wilderness
Emergencies, First Aid & Medical Assistance
There is a First Aid room located at The Outpost and qualified first responders on the Clayoquot team to assist in case of an injury or emergency. Should you have an emergency after hours, there is a well-marked VHF radio available in the First Aid room for you to contact our team for assistance.
Emergency Muster Point Evacuation
If you hear a siren, please calmly make your way to the Muster Point located at the shed labeled ‘Muster Point #1’ across from The Cookhouse. Staff will do a verbal count and cross check with a list. The safety officer in charge will direct you to the safest area.
Fire Emergency
If a fire is seen in your tent, calmly find the fire extinguisher which is located in the bathroom in Rainforest Ensuite, Waterfront Ensuite and Hillside Family tents, and next to the dresser in Rainforest Deluxe and Waterfront Deluxe tents. Follow the instructions on the extinguisher for proper use. If the fire is bigger than a waste basket, please direct all people out of the area and locate a staff member immediately.
Wildlife Awareness
Seeing Canadian wildlife can be one of the most memorable experiences of a wilderness vacation, but it is also our responsibility to respect their home. This means we must not force wildlife to leave their habitat, teach them to eat human foods, or place them in situations where people or the wildlife could get hurt. Habituated animals (those that have lost their natural fear of humans) can be dangerous because they appear docile and may come too close. By acting responsibly, we can help ensure future generations have an opportunity to see wildlife that is truly wild.
British Columbia is home to around one-quarter of all black bears in Canada, and around half of all grizzly bears. Both species are found throughout the province, though there are no grizzly bears in the Clayoquot Sound region. The bears you may sight during your visit to the lodge will be black bears.
Wolves and cougars (also known as mountain lions) are native to Vancouver Island, and as predators these animals are vital to a healthy coastal ecosystem. Wolf and cougar encounters are less common at the lodge but it is still important to be vigilant in case of a possible sighting. Signs that they are in the area include tracks and scat (droppings).
Wildlife is most prone to attack when defending their young, protecting their food, or protecting their territory. No matter how cute and cuddly, the wildlife around Clayoquot is not domesticated and should never be approached.
Preventative Measures
• Avoid startling wildlife by making noise - talking loudly, singing or using wildlife bells or bear horns.
• Never approach or attempt to feed a wild animal.
• Keep children close at hand and within sight.
• Stay on established trails and hike only in daylight.
• Always be alert – keep a lookout for droppings, tracks, evidence of digging and claw/bite marks on trees.
• Never corner an animal, always allow them an escape route.
If you encounter an aggressive wild animal:
• Make yourself as large and dominant as possible –raise your arm, stand tall and make lots of noise.
• Don’t run, crouch down or turn your back towards the animal.
• Give the animal space and slowly back away to safety or wait until the animal moves away.
• Keep together with family or other guests as a group.
