The picture postcard views, from the lobby's large glass windows across the water to the Parliament Buildings and the Olympic Mountains are unrivaled. It's fun just to sit and watch the harbour comings and goings - float planes, ferries, yachts - it's a busy and fascinating place. Just outside the hotel is a popular paved walkway that circles the harbour. In fact, you can walk for miles taking in the scenic waterfront. If you're here in the summer, it's fun to take a little harbour ferry from the dock in front of the hotel. They run a couple of scenic tours.

It's not only the views that are unrivaled here. From check-in to checkout, the hotel staff will spoil you for life with their friendly, catering-to-your-every-need attitude. Room service is excellent and right on time. My breakfast tray was garnished with a fresh carnation.

The rooms are spacious (book a harbour view), and the bathrooms are loaded with amenities from bathrobes to coffee makers, and even a toothbrush, just in case. If you plan on a long stay, there are suites with kitchenettes and separate bedrooms, but, like all rooms in this hotel, they are at the high end of the price scale. Try them during off-season or ask about their package deals.

In the hotel's friendly fitness center there's a small swimming pool with the same terrific harbour views, a sauna and a Jacuzzi. Cardio and weight training equipment are on hand in case you've overindulged at the restaurant the night before. There's a squash/racquetball court or tennis courts (lit for night playing) for those that fancy a game.

This full service hotel also boasts a first rate spa. After that long walk or game of tennis, you can opt for a massage, a facial or other special spa services. All in all, a luxurious way to pamper yourself, honeymoon or not.

Essential Information
The Ocean Pointe Resort is located at 45 Songhees Road, Victoria, BC, Canada V9A 6T3.
Phone: 250-360-2999. Toll Free: 1-800-667-4677.
Spa line to book appointments: 1-800-575-8882.
Member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts.
Email: ocean_pointe@pinc.com or reservations@oprhote.com
Room prices vary depending on view, type of room and season of the year.
Underground Parking.

©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. All images by the author except pool and fitness centre courtesy of Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel and Spa.

Questions?
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