Press Release
Klahoose Wilderness Resort Recognized at the Canadian Tourism Awards as the Indigenous Tourism Experience of the Year
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Powell River, B.C. – December 10, 2024 - Klahoose Wilderness Resort has been honoured as the Indigenous Tourism Business of the Year at the prestigious Canadian Tourism Awards, hosted by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). The awards gala, held at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver, celebrated excellence in Canada’s tourism industry.
"I want to extend my most sincere congratulations on behalf of our board and staff to ITAC member Klahoose Wilderness Resort for winning the 2024 National Indigenous Tourism Award as part of the Canadian Tourism Awards," said Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). "Klahoose Wilderness Resort is one of Canada's most compelling examples of an Indigenous destination we can all be proud of. Klahoose has planned and structured success by sharing their First Nations culture, participating in ITAC programming, and understanding the importance of collaboration through initiatives such as the Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund. Thank you to Klahoose Wilderness Resort staff and Klahoose Nation leadership for their relentless efforts in building another world-class Indigenous destination.”
“It means a great deal to be recognized by the Canadian Tourism Industry as the Indigenous Tourism Business of the Year,” said Chris Tait, Tourism Manager for Klahoose Wilderness Resort. “While we have just completed our fourth season, the Klahoose people have been welcoming visitors to their home for millennia.
This is more than a tourism product or experience; it’s about human connection. Indigenous tourism brings people together in meaningful ways, and this place—here along the coast of British Columbia—is truly beautiful and special. Our Klahoose team has been integral to this success, and I want to thank them for their dedication and passion in sharing our culture, stories, and home with the world.”
The Canadian Tourism Awards, presented by TIAC, celebrate excellence in tourism across the country. These awards recognize individuals, teams, and organizations who demonstrate outstanding commitment to delivering exceptional tourism experiences.
Sponsored by ITAC, the Indigenous Tourism Award highlights businesses that are dedicated to promoting authentic, innovative, and enriched Indigenous tourism experiences. This year’s finalists included Dragonfly Spirit Creations and Métis Crossing, both based in Alberta, showcasing the diversity and quality of Indigenous tourism across Canada.
For more information on the awards and a complete list of winners, visit TIAC website and the Canadian Tourism Awards.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort’s recognition as a leader in Indigenous tourism underscores the importance of cultural preservation, connection, and innovation within the tourism industry.
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Contact:
Chris Tait, Tourism Manager, Klahoose Wilderness Resort
Phone: +1 604-328-6446 | Email: ctait@klahooseresort.com
About Klahoose Wilderness Resort
Embark on a journey of unparalleled Indigenous cultural immersion and untamed wilderness at Klahoose Wilderness Resort, proudly asserting itself as the epitome of British Columbia's premier Indigenous experience. Since our inception in 2021, our authentic and award-winning eco-resort has beckoned travellers from around the globe to the awe-inspiring lands of Klahoose territory, where tradition intertwines harmoniously with lands of the Klahoose people.
At Klahoose Wilderness Resort, sustainability isn't just a concept—it's a way of life. We proudly hold Silver-level Sustainable Certification with GreenStep and have pledged our unwavering dedication to sustainable tourism through the Sustainable Tourism 2030 initiative.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort proudly stands as part of "Authentic Indigenous" with Indigenous Tourism BC and holds "The Original Original" accreditation with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, affirming our status as one of Canada's foremost Indigenous tourism destination resorts.
Press Release
Klahoose Wilderness Resort Wins Canada’s Leading Wilderness Resort at World Travel Awards 2024
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Powell River, B.C. – July 2, 2024 – Klahoose Wilderness Resort proudly announces its prestigious recognition as Canada’s Leading Wilderness Resort 2024 by the World Travel Awards (WTA). This accolade is a significant milestone in the 31st annual global search for the finest travel and tourism organizations worldwide.
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Klahoose Wilderness Resort excels in providing a nature-centric stay with authentic Indigenous-led tours and cultural sharing, earning the votes to be named "Canada’s Leading Wilderness Resort."
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Chris Tait, Tourism Manager for Klahoose Wilderness Resort, expressed his gratitude, stating, “This award holds special significance as it is voted on by both our past guests and our travel industry partners. Being recognized as Canada’s Leading Wilderness Resort, even after just three seasons, validates our commitment to sharing authentic Indigenous tourism. We are proud to invite the world to experience the beauty and culture of the Klahoose First Nation Territory.”
Klahoose Wilderness Resort stood out among notable nominees in the category, including Au Diable Vert, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, Eagle Nook Resort, Great Bear Lodge, Nimmo Bay Resort, Tweedsmuir Park Lodge, and West Coast Wilderness Lodge.
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For more information and a complete list of 2024 winners, visit the official World Travel Awards website.
Contact:
Chris Tait, Tourism Manager, Klahoose Wilderness Resort
Phone: +1 604-328-6446 | Email: ctait@klahooseresort.com
About Klahoose Wilderness Resort
Klahoose Wilderness Resort is owned by the Klahoose First Nation and operates on their traditional territory within the heart of BC’s most pristine coast in Desolation Sound. The award-winning eco-resort opened in 2021 and located just 240 km north of Vancouver, B.C. A visit presents the visitor with an authentic Indigenous travel experience unlike any other. The off-the-grid, resort, accessible only by boat or seaplane, caters to couples, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, food lovers and travellers of all ages looking for immersive nature and Indigenous culture. Experienced Indigenous guides and Cultural Ambassadors and friendly staff adds to the memorable all-inclusive experience. Guests leave, transformed by the beauty of the Klahoose territory, their Nation's unique culture, and the region's exceptional wildlife including whales and grizzly bears.
Press Release
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Klahoose Wilderness Joins the Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF) to Support Indigenous Tourism.
Cortes Island, B.C. – November 1 , 2023 – Klahoose Wilderness Resort is excited to announce its partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) in support of the newly launched Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF). This collaborative effort, led by ITAC, alongside prominent industry leaders such as WestJet, Airbnb, and Rocky Mountaineer, marks a significant stride in advancing Indigenous tourism in Canada.
The ITDF is set to transform Indigenous tourism in Canada, introducing a pioneering funding model designed to propel the industry's growth and serve as a global benchmark for Indigenous tourism development. With a fund goal of $2.6 billion over seven years, the ITDF will facilitate investments in infrastructure, human resources and transportation, as well as business development and marketing. ITAC’s vision for 2030 is for the Indigenous tourism industry to contribute $6 billion annually to Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP) — making Canada the world leader in Indigenous tourism.
This innovative funding model extends an open invitation to the entire tourism industry, including travellers, Indigenous businesses, and non-Indigenous tourism companies, to actively participate in and support Indigenous tourism. Guests will have the opportunity to make an optional contribution to the ITDF, mirroring the destination marketing fees employed by hotels to bolster local visitor Destination Marketing Organizations throughout Canada. Early adopters of this initiative, including Rocky Mountaineer, Airbnb, WestJet, and Coast to Coast Experiences, have already demonstrated their commitment, as have seven Indigenous tourism businesses.
Chris Tait, Tourism Manager for Klahoose Wilderness Resort, emphasized the significance of this fund in supporting Indigenous tourism, not only within the Klahoose territory but across Canada. He stated, "With this fund, our guests can not only experience an Indigenous-owned business here at Klahoose Wilderness Resort, but now our guests can also support Indigenous Tourism across Canada and help foster economic reconciliation."
Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, conveyed his enthusiasm for this opportunity, asserting, "By giving everyone a stake in our success, we are moving closer to reconciliation. Over the next seven years, Indigenous tourism can contribute $6 billion annually to Canada's GDP, and our partners can play a pivotal role in turning this potential into reality."
For more information on the IITDF, please visit: https://indigenoustourism.ca/indigenous-tourism-destination-fund
About Klahoose Wilderness Resort:
Klahoose Wilderness Resort stands as a celebrated eco-tourism destination, nestled amidst the pristine wilderness of British Columbia's Desolation Sound and the ancestral lands of the lands of the toq qaymɩxʷ (Klahoose) People. Owned entirely by the Klahoose First Nation, this off-grid retreat is surrounded by breathtaking coastal rainforests and the tranquil waters of the Salish Sea. The resort extends an exclusive invitation for guests to rediscover their connection to the natural world through an authentic Indigenous experience, along with all-inclusive packages that include wildlife viewing and immersive cultural experiences.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort is an accredited member of The Original Original Program by the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and the Authentic Indigenous Program by Indigenous Tourism British Columbia.
For more information, please visit:
www.klahooseresort.com or contact:
Chris Tait, Tourism Manager, ctait@klahooseresort.com or phone +1 604-328-6446
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Media Enquiries
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Chris Tait
Tourism Manager
C: +1-604-328-6446
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Klahoose Wilderness Resort Receives Silver Certification from GreenStep Sustainable Tourism
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Squirrel Cove, B.C., August 8, 2023 – Klahoose Wilderness Resort is pleased to announce its commitment to sustainability has been recognized with the achievement of Silver Certification from North America’s largest certification program for the tourism and hospitality industry, GreenStep Sustainable Tourism.
"We are immensely proud to receive the Silver Certification from GreenStep Sustainable Tourism. This recognition reinforces our steadfast commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Klahoose Territory through sustainable tourism. As a business that is 100% Indigenous owned by the Klahoose First Nation, we are committed to protecting the environment and its people while welcoming visitors to the territory. We are grateful to our team members and partners whose hard work and dedication have made this achievement possible. We will continue our journey towards even greater sustainability as we demonstrate continued improvements in our sustainable performance to support and improve our grading. We look forward to welcoming guests seeking an eco-conscious and authentic Indigenous experience at Klahoose Wilderness Resort." Ron Buchhorn, Chairman of the Board – Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation (QXMC)
This significant achievement reflects Klahoose Wilderness Resort's commitment to sustainability, conservation, and responsible tourism practices on lands of the lands of the toq qaymɩxʷ (Klahoose) People. The certification represents a major milestone in the resort's ongoing efforts to minimize its ecological footprint and contribute positively to the surrounding environment and local community.
To receive Silver Certification, Klahoose Wilderness Resort had to meet specific standards after a one-on-one assessment was completed by a GreenStep assessor. The process compared the resorts’ practices against a set of criteria that are Global Sustainable Tourism Council-Recognized and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
"GreenStep offers our congratulations to Klahoose Wilderness Resort for achieving GreenStep Sustainable Tourism Certification. Klahoose has successfully measured the sustainability performance of their operations against 87 globally recognized criteria, and had their results verified by a GreenStep assessor. The process resulted in team building, knowledge sharing, and a detailed action plan towards continuous improvement in support of the sustainable development of the resort in
the coming years. We look forward to following along on their journey as Klahoose Wilderness Resort progresses and demonstrates leadership in sustainable tourism.”
- Jennifer Burling, Director of Sustainable Tourism, GreenStep
By obtaining the Silver Certification, Klahoose Wilderness Resort has demonstrated exceptional dedication to implementing sustainable practices across its facilities, tours, and transportation. Guests visiting the resort can now have peace of mind knowing that they are contributing to a more sustainable and responsible form of tourism.
Some of the key sustainable initiatives at Klahoose Wilderness Resort that contributed to the Silver Certification include:
The off-the-grid resort produces its own power. In 2022 the resort redesigned and improved the water intake, Pelton wheel (hydro-wheel) and storage capacity. This new hydroelectrical grid relies on state-of-the-art equipment, allowing us to harness the stream run-off water more efficiently, triple our energy generation and most importantly, enable us to store energy (otherwise lost) so critical during peak consumption periods. The micro- hydroelectric project will cut diesel fuel generators at the off-grid resort, removing up to 38 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Implementing comprehensive recycling programs, minimizing single-use plastics, and adopting waste reduction strategies throughout the resort. For example, the resort uses refillable natural-based ONEKA shampoo, conditioner, body & hand wash and lotions in our rooms and dish soap for our kitchen. These products are produced by Courtney-based Local Refillery, so the resort is at once helping to support a local company while providing a high-quality package free product. We also provide each guest with a Klahoose Wilderness Resort reusable water bottle during their stay. These efforts help transition our resort to plastic-free and a lower our environmental impact.
Partnership with the Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA) and the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association (NIMMSA) to develop industry standards, uniform guide training, and ongoing research to protect wildlife habitat in the Salish Sea, Klahoose First Nation Territory and guests’ conservation fee that is collected goes towards each of these organization with an emphasis on conservation and education.
Contribution to the local economy to support regional coastal communities by purchasing locally sourced and sustainable goods, food and supporting Indigenous and local artists. Examples of this include the purchase of art direct from Coast Salish Indigenous artists and hiring local contractors during the resorts recently completed accommodation, kitchen, and energy system renovations.
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We prioritize hiring from the surrounding communities where we operate. Eco tours and grizzly bear viewing tours are led by Indigenous guides.
Guests who choose to visit Klahoose Wilderness Resort will naturally support Reconciliation Through Travel. The collective effort, a connection to place, its people, and time-gathered-wisdom come together to create lifelong memories while providing a positive impact for us all.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort's achievement of Silver Certification underscores its dedication to sustainable tourism practices. The resort remains steadfast in its commitment to continually improve its sustainability efforts and with ongoing planning with strive for higher certifications in the future.
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Klahoose Wilderness Resort's achievement of Silver Certification underscores its dedication to sustainable tourism practices. The resort remains steadfast in its commitment to continually improve its sustainability efforts and with ongoing planning with strive for higher certifications in the future.
About Klahoose Wilderness Resort:
Klahoose Wilderness Resort is an award-winning eco-tourism destination nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s, Desolation Sound. 100% Indigenous owned, by the Klahoose First Nation, the off-grid resort is surrounded by stunning coastal rainforest and protected calm waters of the Salish Sea, the resort offers guests a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature with an authentic Indigenous experience while enjoying all-inclusive wildlife viewing and cultural packages.
Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation (QXMC) is the Klahoose First Nations Economic Development Corporation tasked with growing Klahoose’s role in business, management, sustainable development, and opportunities in the traditional territory.
About GreenStep Sustainable Tourism:
GreenStep Sustainable Tourism is a globally recognized organization that assesses and certifies tourism businesses based on their sustainability practices. The organization aims to promote responsible tourism and provide travelers with reliable information about environmentally conscious travel options.
For more information, please visit: www.klahooseresort.com or contact:
Chris Tait, Tourism Manager, ctait@klahooseresort.com or Mobile +1 604-328-6446
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Media Enquiries
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Chris Tait
Tourism Manager
C: +1-604-328-6446
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Klahoose Wilderness Resort Recognized as Tripadvisor® 2024 Travelers’ Choice® Award Winner
Klahoose Wilderness Resorts’ Great Traveler Reviews Earn it a Place Among Travelers’ Favorites
Powell River, B.C. – May 26, 2024 – Klahoose Wilderness Resort today announced it has been recognized by Tripadvisor as a 2024 Travelers’ Choice award winner. The coveted award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great traveler reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, placing these winners among the 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor globally.
“It means a great deal to be selected as one of TripAdvisor’s award winners for 2024” says Chris Tait, Tourism Manager at Klahoose Wilderness Resort. “We love to see Klahoose Wilderness Resort and its team recognized, especially as we enter only our second full season in operation. The award continues to extend an invitation to travelers from around the world to visit this special place”.
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“Congratulations to the 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice winners,” said John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor. “The travel resurgence we’ve seen throughout the past year has even further heightened the competition. Earning a Travelers’ Choice Award demonstrates that you have provided great experiences to those who matter most: your guests. With changing expectations, continued labor shortages, and rising costs, this is no easy feat, and I am continually impressed with the hospitality industry’s resilience and ability to adapt. Cheers to another successful year!”
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Klahoose Wilderness Resort welcomed its first guests in 2021 and has won the award in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Check out all the reviews, and discover more about Klahoose Wilderness Resort here: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Hotel_Review-g184843-d2690221-Reviews-Klahoose_Wilderness_Resort-Powell_River_Sunshine_Coast_British_Columbia.html
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About Klahoose Wilderness Resort
Klahoose Wilderness Resort is owned and operated by the Klahoose First Nation on their traditional territory within the heart of BC’s most pristine coast in Desolation Sound. The award-winning eco-resort can accommodate 14 to 22 guests. A visit presents the visitor with an authentic Indigenous travel experience unlike any other. The off-the-grid, resort, accessible only by boat or seaplane, caters to couples, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, food lovers and travellers of all ages looking for immersive nature and Indigenous culture. Experienced Indigenous guides and Cultural Ambassadors and friendly staff adds to the memorable all-inclusive experience. Guests leave, transformed by the beauty of the Klahoose territory, their Nation's unique culture, and the region's exceptional wildlife.
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About Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel guidance platform*, helps hundreds of millions of people each month** become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby. As a travel guidance company available in 43 markets and 22 languages, Tripadvisor makes planning easy no matter the trip type. The subsidiaries of Tripadvisor, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRIP), own and operate a portfolio of travel media brands and businesses, operating under various websites and apps.
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Media Enquiries
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Chris Tait
Tourism Manager
C: +1-604-328-6446
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Indigenous tourism development becomes a driving force for Klahoose Nation with the recent acquisition of Klahoose Wilderness Resort in British Columbia’s Desolation Sound.
Vancouver, November 16th, 2020 – New leadership at the Klahoose First Nation’s Economic Development Corporation, Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation (QXMC), brings vision and hope in challenging times. The recent purchase of Klahoose Wilderness Resort, formerly Homfray Lodge, strengthens business activities for the Nation and brings optimism to the BC’s regional tourism sector.
QMXC’s role is to support the Klahoose Nation and engage in business ventures that encourage the Klahoose’s self-reliance and economic independence. In the last decade QXMC has invested in partnerships and resource management in hydroelectricity and forestry sectors. Since the arrival of new management 18 month ago, QXMC has established innovation and set a new economic vision with significant investment in aquaculture and eco-tourism.
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One-year ago QXMC’s new manager, Bruno Pereira saw an opportunity to strengthen the Klahoose position in the hospitality sector. Despite the current impact of the pandemic on the Canadian and BC tourism industry, Pereira with the support of the Board of Directors, acquired Homfray Lodge, which the QXMC has rebranded Klahoose Wilderness Resort.
“I was deeply touched at the moment I set foot on that site and, strategically, this purchase lays our foundation upon which our tourism offer will lay” Bruno Pereira says. The Resort aligns with the Klahoose Nation’s cultural and traditional values while protecting the territory and creating employment for the community. “When I shared the vision with Chief Peacey, who is also the Chairman of the Board, there was no doubt in his mind either.”
“Welcoming visitors to our territory and home brings opportunities and strengthens our Nation’s framework of modern life and aligns with our community vision for the future,” says Chief Kevin Peacey. “We invest in tourism to have a bigger role in the management of our territory and to protect the environment with our sustainable tourism practices. We care deeply and also want to contribute to the recovery of BC and the Canadian tourism economy”, added Chief Peacey.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort perches on the water’s edge of the Homfray Channel in the temperate rain forest between BC’s Coast Mountains and Desolation Sound on the Sunshine Coast. Located on Klahoose Nation traditional territory, the resort reflects the welcoming spirits and cultural traditions, as well as immersive connections with nature and wildlife.
Set to open in May 2021, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is BC’s newest Indigenous adventure travel experience. The intimate 6,100-square foot cedar timber structure can accommodate 14 to 26 guests among four spacious rooms in the main Lodge and three private one and two-bedroom cabins. Each accommodation is tastefully decorated with local Indigenous artwork from surrounding communities.
The intimate experience promises an ideal getaway for pandemic-weary travellers who long to explore new horizons in a safe, natural environment far from worries, crowds and chaos. Klahoose Wilderness Resort is the perfect “bubble travel” gateway for small private groups and the multi-generational family travel market.
The Klahoose Wilderness Resort will operate from mid-May to mid October. Local Indigenous guides, cultural Interpreters, and knowledgeable hosts will lead diverse cultural programming and wilderness experiences. These adventures range from sea kayaking and boat excursions to the Klahoose’s cultural center on Cortes Island, to heli-sightseeing, and grizzly bear viewing in Toba Inlet.
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Given its seclusion, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is surprisingly easy to access from Vancouver, Seattle, Vancouver Island, and beyond. Pacific Coastal Airlines offers regularly scheduled flights to Powell River. One can also travel via BC ferries as well as chartered boat, seaplane and helicopters. The journey to Klahoose Wilderness Resort is truly spectacular.
The Klahoose Wilderness Resort’s all-inclusive package pricing is convenient for travel trade and independent travelers. The Four-day and 5-day packages are available during the operating season from May to October. The 3-night in double occupancy rate, in either a spacious lodge room or a cosy cabin starts at $2,395 includes: accommodation, meals, Wi-Fi, boat transfer from Lund to the Resort, airport pick-up from Powell River Airport, activities, and grizzly bear tours in Toba Inlet. Taxes, service fee, flights and heli-sightseeing excursion are not included in the price.
For interview requests with Klahoose Nation’s Chief Kevin Peacey, please contact the media relations specialist below.
Media Enquiries
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Chris Tait
Tourism Manager
C: +1-604-328-6446
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Further Media Resources including a Request Form:
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More about Klahoose Wilderness Resort,
Desolation Sound, BC
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Klahoose Wilderness Resort is owned and operated by the Klahoose First Nation on their traditional territory within the heart of BC’s most pristine coast in Desolation Sound. The eco-resort can accommodate 14 to 22 guests. A visit presents the visitor with an authentic luxury and Indigenous travel experience unlike any other. The remote lodge sits on the water’s edge of the calm Homfray channel between BC’s Coastal Mountain peaks and the lush, temperate rain forests of the Sunshine Coast. The off-the-grid, resort, accessible only by water, caters to couples, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, food lovers, writers, painters, yogis and other travellers of all ages and diverse interests. Klahoose Wilderness Resort offers a wide range of activities and cultural programing. Guests live an immersive, authentic cultural experience during their entire visit. Experienced Indigenous Interpreters and friendly staff adds to the memorable experience, particularly on the grizzly bear viewing tours in Toba Inlet. Guests leave transformed by the beauty of the Klahoose territory, their Nation's unique culture, and the region's exceptional wildlife.
More about Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation
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Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation (QXMC) is the Klahoose First Nation’s Economic Development Corporation tasked with growing Klahoose’s role in business, management, and sustainable development and opportunities in the traditional territory. QXMC’s mission is to support the Nation at the community level and engage Klahoose in sound business ventures that encourage self-reliance and economic independence. https://www.qxmc.org/