Vancouver Island’s iconic Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa undertakes a three-year stunning transformation
The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa has completed the first phase of a $17 million renovation that introduces guests to a thoughtfully reimagined resort offering a perfect balance between luxury and approachability, while capturing the allure of Vancouver Island.
The destination has always been a romantic hideaway for British Columbians residents and savvy travelers near and far, and now they will undoubtedly enjoy the hotel’s extensive makeover.
“I want to give something back to the Valley that will stand the test of time,” says owner Bill Brandes. “Leave a legacy that residents of Vancouver Island can be proud of.”
The new rooms
The newly appointed Ocean Courtyard Wing is an ode to authentic Westcoast Craftsman style with cedar shake, oversized post and beam, natural stone stacked columns, and balconies or patios offering walk-out garden access to stunning views.
Inside the luxury rooms décor elements include quarter-cut white oak built-in furniture with armoires, custom-built locally by Cascadian Woodtech in Union Bay and handcrafted designed lighting – from the company that creates lighting for Disney. – Five-star bathrooms enhance the feel of a getaway escape showcased by floor to ceiling White Carrara Italian tile, heated floors throughout and rainfall curb less showers.
In addition, each of the 14 new rooms is equipped with the latest in technology to fit guests’ electronics, TVs that adapt to their surroundings to personal concierge arriving in early 2019.
The Spa
The Pacific Mist Spa is focused around the life-giving power of water through an extensive menu of nourishing treatments. The spa’s new look is highlighted a new spa lounge with candle lit meditation wall making it the perfect sanctuary for guests to begin their day of relaxation with beautiful art and generous sized contemporary and spacious change rooms boasting striking Italian tile, rainfall showers and new keyless lockers.
The Gardens
The newly landscaped Serenity Gardens completed in the spring of 2018 include meandering along pathways, miniature waterfalls and streams flowing into a rock bed pond and lush grounds. In the evening, guests are now found unwinding in the gardens’ Adirondack chairs around the romantic glow of multiple fire bowls.
Contemporary West Coast cuisine
Both the AQUA Bistro & Wine Bar and Ocean 7 restaurant blend that sophisticated French provincial flair with modern West Coast accents, reflecting the property’s new style of effortless living in seaside elegance. The new restaurants were completely re-build and re-opened in 2017. The bistro is complete with garage doors, leading out to a stunning patio.
Using fresh ingredients from local purveyors and exercising sustainable practices in all menu creations at both restaurants, executive chef Richard Benson’s transformed culinary program offers up a memorable experience.
“My philosophy is simple, if at all possible, I try to only source local and sustainable products using a minimalist approach letting the ingredients speak for themselves,” says Benson.
In the fall of 2019, the Kingfisher will undergo more spectacular facelifts. Inspired by some of the world’s top resorts, the north wing will be re-built, with each room being expanded nearly 200 feet, creating luxurious modern suites.
In the future, the Kingfisher’s lobby will receive a major re-build along with landscaping with new signage, creating a grand entrance. The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa’s new upgrades and enhancements will ensure getaways will be luxuriously unforgettable experiences.
