Located at the western edge of Vancouver Island, the small town of Bamfield is as remote as one can get on this beautiful island. MacKay Bay Lodge is at the remote end of Beale Cape Road in West Bamfield, where the roads are not even paved.

Cheryl came to receive us at the docks and carted us along with our luggage in her ATV to the lodge. The lodge has a beautiful setting at the edge of the rain forest and overlooking the fishing dock with the serene waters of the Bamfield Inlet. She made us feel at home in our cosy room, which had an additional couple of bunk beds for kids. In the kitchen cum dining room there was a dining table and chairs, chest of drawers, fridge, microwave oven, kettle, wash basin with some crockery, and a sofa. Even though it was summer we needed to turn on the heater at night.

Breakfast, lunch and supper were included in the stay package. In addition we could visit the kitchen for some snacks or hot and cold drinks and tea and coffee sachets were available at any time of the day. Nancy would always prepare an excellent breakfast and we had an omelette with bacon, spinach, green onion and cheese on the first day, followed by grapefruit and coffee. A variety of cereals were also available. Lunch and dinner were three course meals consisting of a salad, a fish, chicken or meat dish with roast potato and followed by yummy dessert. Nancy and Sue really pampered us with a lot of goodies.

Cheryl would help us to plan our day. After breakfast I went for a leisurely walk to the beautiful Brady’s beach about 3 km away, and returned via the boardwalk along the harbour. In the evening Cheryl arranged for a boat ride with Robbie who took us further into the inlet where we saw a Mamma Bear with her Baby Bear on the far shore feeding on the grass.

Most of the other regular guests who visit here are into sport fishing and they regaled us with their fishing exploits and whale spotting for the day. There is a hot tub where they can relax and recover after a long day on the cold waters. We enjoyed our two day stay by just walking along the harbour and the forest, eating, drinking and sleeping to our hearts content. The atmosphere was very peaceful, serene and calming and it was a joy to just sit outside or upstairs on the veranda during sunset.

We were sad to leave when Brain dropped us back in the ATV to catch the boat back to Port Alberni.

Just returned from an amazing four night stay in the forest cabin at McKay Bay Lodge. Clean, quiet, lovely beds and a great kitchen. The McKay's built, maintain and manage this lovely retreat. They, and their staff, are very friendly and helpful. Whether you are fishing, hiking, or just want a quiet retreat in a spectacular area, this is a great place to stay and we will be back!

This place is amazing. The staff is awesome. They have so many nice amenities, snacks, all the ice and soda drinks you need. The bakery items made by Nancy were delicious. We had issues with our boat and everyone was so helpful. They have a freezer to store your fish
as well. Their hot tub is in the back of the lodge
amongst the trees, very enjoyable after a day of
fishing. We’ll be back.
Tom and Joanie