A spring getaway to Quaaout Lodge and Spa near Chase, BC provided us with a chance to relax and unwind in a natural setting, along the shore of Little Shuswap Lake.
We wanted a quiet getaway where we could get outside and explore BC’s regional backyard in a spot that felt safe during the pandemic.
Quaaout Lodge delivered this experience. The resort has 70 guest rooms and suites, a spa, a golf course, an amazing dining room and plenty of natural spaces to explore.
Our beautiful ground floor room had a stunning walk-out patio overlooking the lake. We were gifted with a gorgeous sunset both evenings. We strolled up and down the beach, watching the sun set, while we tried to capture the beauty in photos and videos. Our room also had a giant soaker tub, massive walk-in shower, fireplace, and an incredibly comfortable bed with a selection of both firm and soft pillows.
“I could imagine a happy couple saying I do in front of their loved ones with the idyllic lake in the background.”
Kim
On the grounds, there are plenty of interpretive signs, displays and a kekuli, or a traditional Shuswap winter pit house. The resort also offers a number of tours, activities, experiences and workshops to show visitors aspects of traditional Shuswap culture and Secwepemc history. They have a beautiful outdoor area for weddings on the grounds.
The Indigenous culture of the resort shows itself at every turn. Signs around the property include words and phrases in the Secwepemc and a gift store features Indigenous art and crafts. A breathtaking animal waterfall display inside near the elevator is mesmerizing.
The emphasis on Indigenous culture continues at Jack Sam’s Restaurant, which features Indigenous foods including bison and bannock.
“The food at Jack Sam’s Restaurant is amazing. Eggs benny on bannock is tasty, and it’s a meal I’d love to have again.”
John
There is an indoor pool and hot tub which we enjoyed during our stay. In order to manage the number of people and to ensure there was room for physical distancing, guests were invited to book dedicated pool and hot tub time with just a small number of other people. This made for both a safe and enjoyable time as we soaked in the hot tub and swam in the pool.
This was our second stay at Quaaout Lodge. The first time we stayed on the property and grounds, but this time we wanted to explore the area a bit more. We ventured out one direction towards Chase where we enjoyed a walk to Chase Falls one day. The second day we went in a different direction and ended up at Margaret Falls. The falls were very beautiful and we enjoyed the nice trail to the falls which was easy to walk and accessible for virtually any age and fitness level. There’s plenty of shade along both these paths, so they would be ideal walks on a hot day in summer.
Quaaout Lodge opened its doors in 1992. The golf course was added in 2007. Both are owned and operated by the Little Shuswap Lake Band. While we were there, they were building what looked to be a large expansion to their restaurant patio.
We were at the resort in early March, during a time when British Columbia’s COVID-19 restrictions had not yet been tightened and we were being encouraged to support local businesses. With the restrictions that are currently in place, and only allowing for essential travel, this is not the time for a getaway. Instead, it is a time to dream of the days when vacations are allowed once again. We would highly recommend a getaway to Quaaout Lodge.
When we visited in the off-season, the atmosphere around Quaaout Lodge was calm and relaxed. During the summer months, when the Talking Rock Golf Course is open, the lodge sees more activity, but it still provides a calm and unhurried atmosphere.
We are looking forward to returning to Quaaout Lodge again in the future, when the present restrictions have been relaxed once again. For now, we’re staying at home and enjoying the memories of a great getaway and dreaming of our next adventures.
