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Posted: 02 Aug 2007 01:30 PM GMT-06:00
 Although it was hard to leave Echo Valley Ranch, I was excited to visit Coastal Trek (our newest member spa). Due to our original plans being cancelled, we opted to take the BC ferry to Nainamo where the spa staff would pick us up. Much to our surprise, it was Andrea, one of the owners, who picked us up at the ferry dock. After the hour drive to Coastal Trek, Andrea showed us to our room and gave us a tour of the spa. Ahhhh - finally we had arrived! Exhausted from the traveling, we settled in and hit the bed hard.
Sunrise Yoga was the first activity on the agenda. And as the only guests there, we were treated with a personal yoga session with Nikki. I've done a fair amount of yoga, but Steve has not so she kept it fairly easy for our first day. The Sun Salutations were a perfect start and worked up our appetite for breakfast. Nikki joined us for breakfast, where we discussed our stay and that day's hike. We had hoped to hit some of the mountain trails. Unfortunately, Mother Nature was not on our side - the BC Mountains still had snow and ice. Instead, we hit some low-level hikes through the lush rainforest. Nikki and Andrea were able to round up some rain gear for us to wear. I say this as I want everyone to learn from our mistake - Pack Raingear! I know better, but forgot.
 Armed with hiking poles, rain gear, and a backpack filled with water and a spa luncheon (all furnished by Coastal Trek), we hopped in the van and drove a short distance to Strathcona Provincial Park. Nikki had thoughtfully decided to hike at this location - very close to the spa - so as to avoid more car travel. We hiked several of the park trails, barely noticing the rain. The small stream that flows through the park was moving like white water rapids due to snowmelt - a very awe-inspiring site for all of us. At one point we stopped to nibble on the trail mix from our pack and spotted some eagles soaring gracefully through the sky. After the aerial show was over, we ventured back to the trails again for another couple of hours.
 We had worked up quite an appetite at this point, so I was thrilled to find a delicious vegetarian sandwich packed in our lunch. I couldn't quite put my finger on the flavor but I really enjoyed it as did Steve. Nikki proudly informed me that it was Hornby Island pate. The spa purchases it from a local vendor who makes this delicious concoction of sesame seeds, potatoes, vegetables and herbs and spices. What I wouldn't give to be able replicate that recipe at home. I've tried without success... So if you are in BC and see it - I highly recommend trying it, vegetarian or not. It's delicious!! We brought some home with us.
 Despite the rain, we hiked a little longer. Along the way, we spotted a fish hatchery and being the inquisitive person I am I rattled off a bunch of questions which Nikki politely answered. Thankfully for her, we came across a man who was working for the hatchery. He was happy to answer all of our questions and provide additional commentary. He had worked at the hatchery for many years and this happened to be his last week before retiring, so he had many stories to share. After about 20 minutes, we said good-bye to our new friend and enjoyed the rest of the trails before heading back to the spa. Once inside, we stripped our wet clothes and raced to the hot tub and steam room. The hot tub provides a glorious view of the Comox Valley, so we stayed there until 3:59pm, right before the 4 o'clock fitness class. April was ready for us, but we were rather tired at this point so she led us through some stretches and core strengthening which was a perfect way to end the day's activities.
 While we were enjoying the hot tub and working out with April, Chef Kathy was preparing our dinner. The enticing aromas were emanating throughout the entire lodge and leading us right to the table. Check out the table - hand carved from one tree - amazing!!! And the meal was equally amazing - Lemon Curried Salmon with quinoa and green beans. Not only was this one of the best spa cuisine meals I've ever had, this ranks as one of the better meals I've ever had. Absolutely delicious. Check out the recipe at http://www.destinationspavacations.com.
I didn't have long to savor the delicious meal as I was scheduled for a massage after dinner. The masseuse provided a very good massage with strong pressure, which is how I like it. She worked my travel knots out, so I could just roll into bed.
Six am rolled around very quickly the next morning. Both of us had slept soundly through the night and would have liked to relish the comfortable bed a little longer. However, today was our last day so we wanted to make the most of it. Nikki led us through the Sun Salutations and some more advanced yoga to start the day. The sun actually saluted us - finally!!! After breakfast we packed up the van and headed out for some island hiking.
 A 15 minute drive and 2 ferry trips later, we had landed on the infamous Hornby Island. First, we hit Tribune Bay Provincial Park. The fall storm had taken down several trees so the path was not exact, but we found our way to the "rock" summit. It was more of a climb than yesterday's trails, whetting our appetite for the mountain hikes. Next we headed over to Helliwell Park for some ocean view hiking - it was very different than the other hikes and a nice change of scenery. The island had some glorious trails which we thoroughly enjoyed. We spotted some sea lions out on a small nearby island, enjoyed a picnic lunch on the beach, and discovered mushroom rocks. Another day of great nature hiking and exploration.
 Our explorations and adventures used up most of our day, so we made our way back to the spa and started packing for our trip home. While we packed, Andrea put the finishing touches on our last meal. Pecan crusted chicken over a microgreen and vegetable salad - another delicious creation from the Coastal Trek kitchen. Local, seasonal, and organic food really shines here!
Our return flight started at the Comox Valley airport - a short 15 mile ride from the spa and definitely the easiest transportation option. And on a clear day as it was for us, a very scenic option. Several hours later we made it home safely and well rested unlike most vacations where I feel exhausted... Once again, I'm reminded why a Destination Spa vacation is a vacation for everyone.
Source: Destination Spa Vacations with Michelle
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