Today we speak with Marilyn, from the Telegraph Cove Resort on Northern Vancouver Island.
Q: Share with us some history about your property, and what makes it an experience for guests?
Telegraph Cove's history goes back to 1912 when it became the end of the Telegraph Line traveling up Vancouver Island. It later became a sawmill community, building boxes to transport fish to Japan, and was taken over during WWII as milling lumber became important during this war. By 1979 the mill was no longer productive.
When the road from Campbell River north opened up we realized we had few boat launching, mooring and camping facilities on Northen Vancouver Island. Thus began our 40 years of acquiring this boardwalk community and turning it into a highly rated tourist facility, eventually adding to the marina and campground with a store, restaurant, pub and lastly two years ago a lodge.
The attraction for tourists revolved around ocean fishing, mostly salmon. A whale watching company started up here as well, the first on the West Coast. We have an exceptional whale museum. Whale watching, kayaking and grizzly bear tours are now the most popular attractions. We also have a great hiking trail. As urbanization has put most people in cities we are pleased to offer the fresh air of the ocean, the peaceful boardwalk community, great food and outdoor activities that cannot be found elsewhere.
Q: As an independent property, what are some of the challenges you face?
The challenges we face are those of a small business having to create our own community with all that entails from water systems, sewage systems, garbage pickup etc.--all things that other business' have at their fingertips when part of a larger community. At this time we are remaining closed to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lack of revenue that entails.
Q: Your resort also offers a Grizzly experience. What would the typical day tour look like for your guests?
A typical Grizzly Bear Tour day would mean setting off from the dock in a 12. passenger boat with a qualified captain and biologist. Coffee and muffins and fruit are provided as you head across the beautiful waters of Johnstone Strait and up Knight Inlet to Glendale Cove where the grizzlies feed along the estuary. The boat docks there. Passengers move to a viewing skiff where they view bears along the shore. Lunch is provided on the dock. Travel back to Telegraph Cove, arriving back around 4 pm.
Q: What advice would you give to those in the hotel and resort industry, especially during this challenging time?
Take advantage of whatever the government can offer to help you get through this financial hardship, and keep a positive outlook for the future. People are always going to want to have a vacation retreat, especially after being isolated for a lengthy period.
To view more information on the Telegraph Cove Resort, please click the below link.