We've heard its name incorrectly attempted by various mouths before, but Clayoquot didn't come to our attention until trekking the Great Migration deep in the Serengeti. A well-heeled traveler responded to the horizon dotted in wildebeest carcasses and feasting lions with almost dismissal, musing that he'd found his experience at the Canadian wildlife lodge far more alluring and audacious. Since then we've been obsessed with it and gingerly pointing adrenaline junkies looking for the ultimate wildlife experience not towards Africa but British Columbia of all places.<br><br>A direct seaplane flight zips away from Vancouver, over the Gulf Islands and along Pacific Rim National Park to Clayoquot Sound where denim-clad staff wave from the property's hotel dock. Travel is organized in 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries that begins with a horse-drawn shuttle as you notice your cellphone has been rendered entirely useless except for the in-house satellite internet. A quick orientation explains the practices and eco-policies of Clayoquot, from its western-inspired safari tents with antique furnishings to billiards tent and crystal-clad martini service by a tantalizing staff of wranglers and cowgirls. Deluxe and Luxury tents differentiate with the latter offering upgraded bathrooms with in-floor heating, indoor/outdoor showers and toilets that don’t require you exit your tent at 2am.<br><br>Daytime activities are why you came to Clayoquot in the first place, tailored to each guest for experiences like river fly fishing, holistic spa days, horseback riding, whale or bear trekking and whitewater kayaking on the Bedwell River as piping eagles flaunt their impressive wingspans overhead. Field experts curate each excursion including its unprecedented Cloud Camp accessed by the property's helicopter where guests dine and sleep atop a 4500-ft. lake peak under the stars. Meals include in-tent morning pastries, gourmet sack lunches and communal cookhouse dinners curated by Vancouver chef Ryan Orr utilizing local ingredients unrivaled at any destination resort. And by the end of your stay you find yourself re-energized and connected to life and nature again - without a 20-hour plane ride home.
