While most of us think of heading down south during the cold months, I embraced Canada’s winter weather and opted to hit our local coast for some storm watching. If there was any time I wished for Mother Nature to be extra unforgiving, it was now.

There’s nothing like the experience of bundling up in heavy-duty layers and protective rain gear supplied by Middle beach for a wet, windy walk on the beautiful coastal beaches.

For the less adventuresome, staying in and cozying up to a gorgeous view of rolling waves from your own waterfront rustic cabin at Middle Beach serves as a sensory pleasure, armed with a glass in hand and roaring fire going, of course. The most intense storm period lasts from December through February, so there’s still plenty of time to book a weekend away during Valentine’s Day for you and your love to get swept away in. Trust me, it’s pretty darn romantic.

I love the warm and quaint, home-like feel of the dining lodge at Middle Beach, where every morning during complimentary breakfast, there’s sweet homemade pastries, fresh fruit, delicious squeezed juices and coffee to give us energy for the day ahead, even if the agenda consists of nothing but relaxing on the lodge’s big comfy couch in front of fire place playing board games – the perfect end to a day packed with exploring the outdoors.

Take shelter at one of the local lively restaurants appropriately named, Shelter. Sitting beside a warm fire, I had the Albacore Tuna Poke (pictured above) and Cortes Island Mussels with Pasta. Their menu also deliciously features dishes created by Chef Matty Kane that includes a variety of local, organic ingredients, freshly caught seafood and fish and hormone free meats such as the Tofino Surf Bowl, Suze Crispy Calamari or for the meat lover, the Shelter Beef Burger.
(Shelter images courtesy of Shelter)

After a weekend filled with blissful much-needed relaxation and an outdoor experience like none other, I regretfully return home to my place in the city with fond memories of what Mother Nature is really capable of.

By: Christie Lohr

You should follow me on Twitter @Christie_Lohr.