After a recent visit to Florence, I thought I was experiencing deja vu when I arrived at The Aerie Resort, set in the mountains 30 minutes north of Victoria. There stood a statue of the David, overlooking the Pacific Northwest's San Juan Islands! You can take cooking classes at this Mediterranean-themed resort, go hiking through Douglas firs, enjoy Butchart Gardens or venture out for kayaking and fishing. Ask for one of the rooms with a fireplace, Jacuzzi in the living area and balcony from which to enjoy the fresh air. The spa treatments are divine, and based on organic herbs and rare plant extracts.

Located high in the mountains of Southern Vancouver Island, yet no more than 30 minutes from the capital city of Victoria, lies the world renowned Aerie Resort. The splendor and character of the Malahat inspired owner, Maria Schuster, and her family to design a Mediterranean-style mansion reminiscent of Southern Europe. Surrounded by 85 acres of meticulously kept grounds and gardens, the breath-taking view from The Aerie is worth the trip alone. This setting combined with impeccable service and style has proven to be a perfect match for many couples seeking a romantic hideaway. The Aerie was listed as one of the top 500 hotels in the world by Conde Naste Traveler magazine in 1999, 2000 and 2001.

A member of Relais & Châteaux, The Aerie Resort offers 29 luxurious rooms and suites. Each one offers European down duvets, terry cloth bathrobes, TV, CD/Cassette players, air-conditioning, mini Bar, in-Room telephones with direct access lines and data ports. Most include jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, private decks, overstuffed sofas and Persian & Chinese silk carpets.

Dining is an important part of the experience at The Aerie Resort. Executive Chef Christophe Letard, offers French cuisine with a Pacific Northwest influence taking full advantage of the abundance of locally grown products from seafood to game to fresh morels and berries. Every dining experience includes the chance to sample British Columbia's finest wines, and dessert often includes a taste of the world's best chocolate from Bernard Callebaut.

Our in-house spa, The Aerie Wellness & Beauty Centre, offers a full range of treatments from massages to manicures. The resort also features an indoor pool, hot tub and sauna, an outdoor hot tub and tennis court. Championship golf courses, hiking trails, fishing, sailing, kayaking and mountain biking are all available in the region. Tours of local wineries, farms, forests, marine ecology and Native heritage can be arranged.

• Number of Rooms: 29
• Children's Programs: No
• Private Club/Floor: No
• Seasonal Closures: January 5 - 22

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