The hotel has the low ceiling, heavy beamed look of old England complete with the patterned carpets of a bygone era and even antique furniture. The rooms, in different configurations and colours reflect this homey decor. Some of the rooms boast fireplaces and soaker tubs set into bay windows overlooking the gardens and the ocean. The bathrooms are fresh and up to date with modern fixtures and amenities.

The staff of the hotel exudes old-fashioned warmth and friendliness. The lobby with its wood burning fireplace is a great place for the complimentary hot chocolate and homemade cookies served each evening to guests. Or follow that old English tradition and have afternoon tea complete with pastries and scones in the restaurant, known as Bentley's on the Bay.

Bentley's continues the hotel's Tudor decor and high level of hospitality. However, the menu is right up to date with the finest fresh seafood and Vancouver Island garden fresh edibles. Start with a Westcoast crabcake with pineapple and Bing cherry coulis or orange walnut salad with wildberry balsamic dressing. For entrees, along with that old British standby, prime rib of beef and Yorkshire pudding, there's Pacific salmon, roasted lamb sirloin with a sundried tomato herb crust and rosemary mint glaze, among other choices. The menu varies, depending on the season of the year and what's fresh. I particularly liked the way the vegetables were done - just enough to bring out their full flavour but still crisp. Vegetarians are easily accommodated in the restaurant with meals just as thoughtfully prepared as those that include meat.

If it's just a snack you want, the Snug lounge is the perfect place to relax over a pint and a quick bite. It really gives you the feel of being in an authentic English pub.

The hotel runs Pride of Victoria Cruises and Tours. These are land and sea excursions, described as soft adventure. There's whale watching San Juan Island day trips, kayak expeditions and more. I've been on two of their trips and can vouch for the fact they are well run, entertaining, fun and interesting. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy.

Essential Information
The Oak Bay Beach Hotel and Marine Resort is located at 1175 Beach Drive. Catch #2 bus from downtown. The hotel runs a free shuttle service to town during high season.
Phone them at 250-598-4556 or toll free at 1-800-668-7758.
Email: reservations@oakbaybeachhotel.bc.ca.
Visit their website for full details on Cruises and Tours, packages and room prices. Prices range from $119 to $329 depending on season of year and location/type of room. Continental breakfast is included in room rates.

©2000 by Barbara Ballard. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part, including images, and reproduction in electronic media, without documented permission from the author is prohibited. Images courtesy of Oak Bay Beach Hotel.

Questions?
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