Tyax Lodge

Situated on the shores of the pristine Tyaughton Lake edged by dense spruce forests, the pine-clad Tyax Lodge is a rustic retreat in the heart of the British Columbia mountains. Its situation may be remote, three hours north of Whistler, but amenities are far from basic. Cosy, alpine-style rooms will see you enjoy pillow-top mattresses and soaking bathtubs with awe-inspiring vistas of the expansive lake or snow-capped mountains. The lodge also offers luxury, private chalets.

Activities are boundless in the rugged wilderness that truly lies on the doorstep. There's everything from biking and horse riding to mountain-ridge hikes with views of the verdant forests in the valleys below. For something more serene, go fishing or head out onto Tyaughton Lake, with full free use of canoes, kayaks and paddleboards available throughout your stay. After a day of adventure, the full-service spa is a perfect way to rejuvenate and features an infrared and wood–fired sauna, outdoor hot tub and yoga studio. Come winter, picturesque flightseeing is swapped for heliskiing, when the lodge offers special packages for skiers who'll have access to nearly one million acres of terrain alongside expert guides.

Dining is certainly a draw, too, taken in the lakeside dining room that's all timber-beamed ceilings, a wooden-panelled patio in the summer and cosy roaring fireplaces in winter. Expect ultra-fresh produce with the likes of flank steak, hamburgers and halibut on offer as well as special wine-paired tasting menus. It's all best done before a post-dinner aperitif in the cosy, alpine-style lounge bar.