Ready to escape the city and swap out traffic jams for a backdrop of mountains and star-filled skies? We did just that recently, with a weekend stay at Sandpiper Resort in Harrison Mills, just a two-hour drive from Vancouver (on a Friday evening).
We enjoyed the rustic cabin life here a few years back, but since then, Sandpiper has added seven luxury cabins, with one- two- and three-bedroom layouts containing themes that honour their surroundings — Coho, Heron, Osprey, Raven, Eagle, Kermode and Chinook.
Outside the group of cabins are gorgeous detailed wood carvings of bears, eagles and owls. Entering our spacious, dark-wood panelled cabin, we’re greeted with a welcome sign and high ceilings, lots of lighting, a full-size fridge, large marble kitchen island and all the amenities we could want for our stay.
Our cabin (the Osprey) sleeps six and features two bedrooms (each with a queen bed), a pull-out sofa, 50” wall-mounted smart TV (loaded with 36HD AND 69SD channels) and a bathroom with a shower/tub combination. If things turn chilly, there’s a stone gas fireplace with a cozy blanket nearby to warm up with.
Free parking and wifi are also included with a stay here.
We unpack and pop open the bottle of complimentary white wine already chilled in the fridge along with a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries.
The traffic is far behind us and the late afternoon sun just begs our attention on the deck, where two Muskoka chairs and a small table allow for a chill session before dinner. And did we mention the views? There’s the river, golf course and an old-growth forest at our doorstep.
If you want to prepare simple meals, the cabin contains dish ware, cutlery, a microwave, dishwasher and coffee maker with an assortment of pods.
As well, a portable BBQ can be rented (at $50/day including a 1 lb. propane canister). In the morning, a free breakfast awaits at the Clubhouse Restaurant, just a short walk from the cabin.
Dining
The Clubhouse Restaurant is a casual venue with a lovely tree canopy patio offering mountain, river and golf course views.
[Breakfast with a view]
We start with a cup of salmon and clam chowder and follow up with their Friday night schnitzel champignon platter and a maple miso salmon bowl (seafood served here is Ocean Wise-approved). Local wines are available by the glass and bottle to sip and savour as well as classic cocktails, bubbles, martinis, beer, cider and specialty coffees — a libation for every occasion.
[The Sandpiper Salad]
On the menu are soups, salads (we loved the Sandpiper salad), shareable starters, burgers, seafood, bowls, and six dinner selections served after 5 pm (AAA Alberta Beef Strip Loin Steak, Salmon Wellington, the chef’s Legendary Stuffed Yorkie, Chicken Tagine, Braised Beef Pappardelle).
[AAA Alberta Beef Strip Loin Steak]
On Friday evenings, a feature schnitzel plate includes a breaded pork loin schnitzel in mushroom sherry cream sauce, mashed potatoes and seasoned veggies, a good deal at $24. The small dessert menu includes cinnamon nachos, a daily pie and strawberry short cake. Portions are generous all around; we ate well here during our weekend stay.
[Part of the Clubhouse’s Sunday brunch offerings]
We lucked out with a couple of clear late summer nights, enjoying romantic dinners al fresco with the moon shining through the trees and the soft glow of candlelight at our table.
Golfer’s Paradise
Golfers can enjoy an 18-hole, par 72 course created by Canadian course designer Russ Olsen. Open 364 days a year, the course runs 6,500 yards from the back tees and offers a game suitable for all player levels.
In fact, Sandpiper’s golf course gets the Fraser Valley’s vote for #1 in the province, and no wonder, given the beautiful mountain and water views at nearly every hole.
An onsite pro shop is outfitted with irons, putters, cart bags, apparel and accessories for a day on the green.
There’s even a signature Sasquatch footprint at par 5 15th hole!
Harrison Hot Springs is Sasquatch country! Here, Sasquatch is thought to be a mispronounced attempt at the local Sts’ailes First Nations’ ‘Sasq’ets’ (hairy man). The Sts’ailes believe him to be a spiritual being that can also vanish into the spirit realm at will.
The property’s gorgeous landscaping is perfect for weddings! These luxury cabins are also ideal for a retreat, girlfriends getaway, family outings, fishing trips and family reunions.
Nearby Attractions
Come for the peace and relaxation, stay for the eagles and salmon! This area is prime viewing for both, particularly now as the Coho and Chum salmon begin to arrive in the river. Nearby Agassiz hosts the Weaver Creek Spawning Channel (October 6 to November 1) and in mid-November (16 and 17), the Bald Eagle Festival.
Harrison Hot Springs is about a 20-minute drive away, for wildlife viewing, hiking, kayaking, spas, waterfront dining, events and perhaps a Sasquatch appearance if you’re lucky 🙂
Sandpiper Resort, home to Sandpiper Golf Course, Rowena’s Inn on the River and The Clubhouse Restaurant, is located at 14282 Morris Valley Road in Harrison Mills, BC.
We were hosted by Sandpiper Resort and Tourism Harrison Mills for the purpose of this feature. Opinions, as always, are our own.
