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A Vista Villa BED, BBQ & SPAWow, what a B&B!By Jane CassieWhat determines a great romantic getaway? Spectacular views? Luxurious accommodations? Fine dining? An intimate spa? How about all of these and more? Well, that's what we discovered at this unique sanctuary in the heart of BC’s sunny Okanagan.
Sherry Cote, owner and creator of this heavenly haven, greets us with her welcoming smile, and congenial charm. Her effervescence for life is exuded instantaneously and it comes as no surprise to find out that this retreat for romantics has become a raving success. Instead of the standard bed and breakfast, Sherry goes all out by including a complimentary full course dinner and optional treatments from her in-house spa. “I want to Wow my guests at every turn,” Sherry proclaims. “After all, you have to give, in order to receive.” And during our two-day stay, we discover that Sherry is true to her word!
Continued promises of relaxation are imbibed from the moment we step into the Villa’s luxurious interiors. The light drenched décor, boasting soft emerald hues is deliciously inspired by the region’s abundance of fresh fruit. Candle lit sconces emit a soft glow to infuse the perfect ambience, and a flickering fire warms overstuffed couches where we later share a video flick. Although we arrive long after the dinner hour when Sherry performs her mealtime magic, waiting in the fridge is a platter of delectables that includes strawberries hand-dipped in Bernard Callebaut’s chocolate, and Cipe’s Brut sparkling wine from Summerhill Pyramid’s nearby vineyard. Pure decadence? You bet! As well as attentive service, Sherry displays her mastery in design throughout. Her four divinely appointed havens tug at heartstrings and inspire intimacy in even the most jaded romantic. While the three ground level abodes pay homage to the neighboring orchards by bearing signature fruit titles, the upper Regal suite treats its king and queen occupants to a true taste of royalty. Although each is swathed with its exclusive colour scheme, they all share elegant commonalties like jetted tubs, goose down duvets, and hidden bar fridges where the morning’s breakfast goodies are housed.
The Pamper Suite hosts an array of other incredible indulgences, that will lull guests into blissful tranquillity, and for the piéce de résistance in revitalization, the Royal Treatment promises to appease the most discerning spa aficionado. Guests start with a foaming Jacuzzi bath, followed by a European facial, then the back cleansing treatment and last, but not least, a manicure and pedicure. The package can be enjoyed over a full day, or can include an overnight stay, complete with the complimentary full course dinner. Every night guests are treated to Sherry’s gastronomic specialties, like grilled teriyaki pork tenderloin, or tender flaky salmon. And while they sip on wine and watch the setting sun perform it’s magic, Sherry’s nineteen-year-old son, Jesse, disappears to secretly hand wash their vehicles. “It’s just another Wow that we enjoy providing,” Sherry humbly reveals. “And it’s just one more perk that keeps our guests coming back for more.” A Vista Villa BED, BBQ & SPA Images by Photos by Brent Cassie and compliments of the property |
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From
its lofty plateau perch in prestigious Golfview Estates, A Vista Villa Bed, BBQ
and Spa undeniably lives up to its name by offering a sweeping view of the
growing community of Kelowna, where it snuggles up to Lake Okanagan and sprawls
over the scenic rolling hill backdrop. A rock-lined pathway, flanked by
manicured perennials, directs our way to a shimmering outdoor pool where the
same breathtaking vista is shared. Lights twinkle below, during our dusk-time
arrival, to remind us that the city’s busy hub is just a short drive away, yet
from our pristine podium, the night is still and serene, and we feel blissfully
freed from any hustle and bustle.
Fragrant
clematis and flowering wisteria drape the poolside gazebo and, while boasting
abundant foliage, they provide a discreet form of privacy that couples come here
to find. Gliding love seats and intimate groupings gather around patio tables
next to the glistening oasis. Splayed out lounges invite luxury-loving guests to
return when the sunny Okanagan rays will provide a warm embrace. And when the
sun slips below the horizon, an alluring gas heater warms dampened towels and
complements star-studded skies. 
For
ultimate pampering, I head for the Villa’s spa, where I am soon lulled into
blissful tranquillity while enjoying the Cleansing Back Treatment. “Our backs do
so much work,” my aesthetician quietly states as she places heating pads over my
entire lumbar area. “They truly deserve this ultimate facial.” While the warmth
permeates my pores and harpstring melodies weave over the candlelit sanctuary,
my gnarled muscles begin to unravel. Lisa skilfully follows with the application
of an Ambrosia cleanser, an herbal tonic, exfoliation with an almond peel, a
divine foot treatment and a marvellous massage that transforms my entire body
into putty. Needless to say, I wobble away, feeling like a new and very relaxed
woman.