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 TM
Heritage
Maintained at this Enchanting Getaway
Quilchena
Hotel
Jane
Cassie
 If Joseph Guichon was alive today, he
certainly would be proud. He had been a man with a vision and on July 3, 1908,
when the Quilchena Hotel celebrated its official grand opening, his dream became
a reality. Decked out in finery, guests came from far and wide to partake in the
celebration that welcomed his stately manor to Nicola Valley. Boasting European
elegance, while perched overlooking Nicola Lake, it shimmered in splendor
against the western backdrop of sage covered rolling hills. Adorned with fine
interior furnishings and constructed with top grade materials, it was thought to
be the finest hotel in all of BC’s interior.
Although
the Quilchena Hotel soon became a favourite over-night hostelry for weary road
travelers, the hopes of a passing railroad from Kamloops to the coast never
materialized, and when hard times hit just nine years later this fine
establishment was forced to temporarily close its doors.
 Fortunately the qualities of
determination and vision were passed down this family’s lineage to Joseph’s
grandson, Guy Rose, who re-opened The Quilchena Hotel in 1957, and ever since,
its legacy has been maintained and its fine reputation revived.
This
heritage haven, embraced by billowing cottonwoods still boasts the same
picturesque vista that it used to a century ago, and is like an inviting oasis
on the lone range. Although cowboys and country seekers are lured by the fine
rural qualities, the Quilchena Hotel also offers tired city souls some mighty
fine indulging opportunities as well.
 Old World charm flows through to the
Victorian parlor, where modern day technology is soothingly replaced by
stimulating conversation and melodies from the exquisite grand piano. Past tales
are shared through a trail of photos that line the hallways leading to the
sixteen vintage style guestrooms. Embellished by floral prints and warmed by
wood accents, they all express a bygone era with the effective use of period
antiques, pedestal wash sinks, and soft overstuffed beds plumped up with
pillows. For those desiring ultimate privacy, there is also a full facility
ranch house, adjacent to the hotel, and to meet the needs of group functions,
The Banquet room accommodating up to eighty people provides an ideal setting for
either a business retreat or wedding reception.
 Although life moves at a slower pace with
this step back in time, there are also abundant activities to keep the energized
content. The surrounding fields that once met the needs for a challenging polo
match, have now been transformed into nine meticulous golf greens and are a
drawing card for Tiger Woods wannabes. A tennis court and horseback riding are
also linked to the property and the diverse surrounding countryside offers
endless hiking, biking and bird watching opportunities. Adjacent to the hotel,
Nicola Lake attracts aquatic lovers as well, enticing with a variety of water
sports from windsurfing, and sailing to boating, swimming and fishing.
 When hunger pangs call out another
memorable experience awaits in the Victorian Dining Room. Served with silver
service, the gastronomic delights created by the hotel’s European chefs are
sensationally savory and exquisitely presented. The specialties include unique
palate pleasers like the mixed grill “Madagascar”
where a sensuous unity of chicken breast, beef tenderloin and tiger prawns is
paired with a delectable green peppercorn sauce. For those craving seafood, the
salmon filet is poached to perfection in white wine and fresh herbs. Garnished
with roasted peppers and artichoke hearts it is beautifully complimented by
balsamic vinaigrette. There are traditional favorites like succulent New York
filet and baby back ribs, as well as indigenous offerings such as Nicola Valley
venison and vegetarian selections. Melding with the creative menu options is a
large selection of vineyard specialties, and for those celebrating a special
occasion, the original Wine Cellar Room provides the perfect ambience for up to
twenty guests.
When
the lights are low and you’re itching for a nightcap, the saloon is a
favourite place to hang your hat. And while sipping on a tall one you’ll be
once again transported back in time to when tales of outlaw Bill Miner literally
come out of the woodwork. Century old bullet scars embellish the grand mahogany
bar of this popular ‘watering hole,’ revealing its authenticity and stories
during its wilder era.
For
business or pleasure, in a group or with your significant other, this idyllic
getaway offering fine hospitality and divine accommodation is truly a reprieve
from busyness of everyday life. That’s what it must have been like for Joseph
Guichon nearly one hundred years ago, and if he knew that a piece of his
heritage lived on and still provided enchantment and pleasure to so many
visitors, he would be proud!
QUILCHENA HOTEL
Highway 5A North
(20 km north of Merritt)
Quilchena,
British Columbia
Canada, V0E 2R0
Tel:
250-378-2611
Fax: 250-378-6091
info@quilchena.com
www.quilchena.com/
Season: Late April
till mid October
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