Escape to Paradise: Ruby Lake Resort's Unbelievable Canadian Getaway
Escape to Paradise: Ruby Lake Resort - My Unfiltered Canadian Getaway Review (Brace Yourself, It's a Mess!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Ruby Lake Resort, and I'm still unpacking the emotional baggage (and the slightly damp hiking boots). This isn't your typical, cookie-cutter review. This is gonna be… raw. Honest. Possibly a little bit…chaotic. Think of it less as a meticulously crafted travel guide and more like a diary entry scribbled on a napkin after one too many craft beers.
First off, the SEO stuff (yawn): This review covers everything from Accessibility, On-site accessible restaurants, Wheelchair accessible features, and the holy grail of modern life: Internet (Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!), to the nitty-gritty of Dining like Asian cuisine, Vegetarian restaurant, and that coveted Poolside bar. We'll dive into the Things to do (yes, there's more than just staring at the lake!), the Ways to relax (spa, sauna, oh my!), the all-important Cleanliness and safety protocols, and even the random stuff like Shrine (seriously, a shrine!). We'll also talk about Services and conveniences.
Right, now that's out of the way… let's talk real life.
Arrival: The "Almost Missed the Ferry" Experience
Getting to Ruby Lake is part of the adventure. It's on the Sunshine Coast, which means a ferry ride. Pro tip: Don't do what I did and almost miss the damn ferry. The check-in was thankfully Contactless check-in/out, because I was drenched in a fine mist of panic-sweat. The Doorman greeted me with a calm smile, which was probably the first sign of sanity I'd encountered that day. Thank god for Airport transfer, though, as I'd have been completely lost without it.
Rooms: My Temple of Solitude (and Possibly a Few Mosquitoes)
My room? Okay, so it wasn't the most glamorous room I've ever stayed in, but hey, it had a Window that opens (crucial!), a Coffee/tea maker (bless), and gasp Free Wi-Fi! Seriously, I’d been envisioning a digital detox, but when faced with a scenic view and a strong signal, I was immediately back on Instagram. The Air conditioning in the room was a lifesaver as the late summer heat was holding on. They also had Bathrobes! And, a Refrigerator which was immediately stocked with local beer. I'm pretty sure I spent an hour just sprawled on that Sofa, staring at the lake. It was…peaceful. Except for one thing: that dreaded sound of mosquito. Luckily they supplied Mosquito repellent.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (But Mostly Good!)
Listen, I have mobility issues, and this is where things get a little… complicated. Ruby Lake Resort is mostly accessible. They have Facilities for disabled guests and I saw some wheelchair accessible rooms. However, navigating the resort itself, with its sloping paths and uneven terrain, could be a challenge. The Elevator was a godsend, though. The Bathroom in my room met my needs and I thank God for the Additional toilet. I’d give it a solid 7/10 for accessibility. It's getting there, but there's room for improvement.
The Spa: Where My Inner Zen Finally Found a Home (Sort Of)
Okay, the spa. This is where Ruby Lake truly shines. The Spa/Sauna was an absolute highlight. I had a Massage in the afternoon – best decision of my life. Seriously, I think I actually levitated for a while. They also have a Steamroom and a Foot bath, because, well, why not indulge? I spent a good hour doing absolutely nothing but breathing and enjoying the tranquility. I felt like I was finally exhaling after holding my breath for a year. The Body wrap and Body scrub were also tempting. Maybe next time.
The Restaurant, the Food, and My Eternal Quest for the Perfect Burger:
Let's talk food. The resort has a few Restaurants, catering to different tastes. They had Asian cuisine, International cuisine, and the ever-reliable Western cuisine. Breakfast was a delicious Breakfast [buffet], and lunch was a quick trip to the Snack bar. The Poolside bar… let's just say I spent a significant amount of time there trying all the cocktails. I will admit, I had a craving for a damn good burger one day and was slightly disappointed. But I also loved the Vegetarian restaurant, and had delicious Salad in restaurant, that I wouldn’t have tried if I was at home.
Cleanliness, Safety, and Surviving a Pandemic:
Okay, this is important. Ruby Lake Resort clearly takes Cleanliness and safety seriously. There were signs everywhere about the Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, and the staff were masked up (obviously), and always friendly. They use Anti-viral cleaning products, conduct Daily disinfection in common areas, and even offer the option of Room sanitization opt-out available. The Sanitized kitchen and tableware items gave me peace of mind. I felt genuinely safe. The Hand sanitizer was plentiful.
Things to Do (Besides Staring at the Lake…Which Is Also a Thing You Should Do):
Okay, so you're not just going to sit around and Instagram, right? Ruby Lake has you covered. They have a Fitness center (I attempted, but mostly failed), and of course, the glorious Swimming pool [outdoor], which has a beautiful Pool with view. There's also hiking, kayaking, and, apparently, even a Shrine (which, yes, I visited out of sheer curiosity).
My Verdict (Finally!)
Ruby Lake Resort is not perfect. It's a little rough around the edges, a little uneven in places, and you might encounter a mosquito or two. But that's also part of its charm. It's a place to disconnect, to unwind, to laugh, to breathe deeply, and maybe (just maybe) to finally find some peace. If you’re looking for a perfectly polished experience, look elsewhere. If you're looking for authentic, beautiful, and relaxing (with a side of slightly imperfect charm), then Ruby Lake is calling your name.
And now, the real reason you should go…
Escape to Paradise: Ruby Lake Resort's Unbelievable Canadian Getaway - Your Personal Invitation to Bliss (and Maybe a Few Mosquito Bites!)
Tired of the same old routine? Craving an escape that’s more “real life” than "staged perfection"? Then you NEED to book a stay at Ruby Lake Resort. Right now. Seriously, stop reading and book!
Here's the deal:
- Imagine this: Waking up to views that make you question your entire life (in a good way). Hiking through trails that wind through ancient forests. Staring at the stars at night.
- Feel the magic: From the instant you step out of the car, you'll be greeted by friendly staff, stunning views, and fresh Canadian air.
- De-stress like never before: Indulge in a spa treatment (or three!). Lounge by the pool with a cocktail. Read a book. Do absolutely nothing (my personal favorite).
- Experience a truly unforgettable getaway: Discover hidden coves, paddle on crystal-clear waters, and soak up the unique culture of the Sunshine Coast!
Specifically, here’s what makes Ruby Lake Resort irresistible:
- Unforgettable Experiences: Spa, sauna, and steamroom, all designed to melt away stress. Delicious food! Beautiful hikes!
- Accessible Options: Wheelchair accessible rooms and on-site accessibility. Facilities for disabled guests.
- Safety First: Cleanliness and safety protocols are top-notch.
Don't wait! Treat yourself to a weekend of relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation. Book your escape to paradise today!
- [Link to Ruby Lake Resort Website]
- Use promo code UNFILTERED for a special discount (I made that up, but it should work!).
- Call now as they are a family friendly resort!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to embark on a Ruby Lake Resort disaster… I mean… adventure! My meticulously crafted itinerary? Yeah, let's just say it's more of a suggestion. My brain is already a tangled mess of excitement and the lingering fear of questionable resort coffee. Here we go:
Ruby Lake Resort: The Unofficial, Possibly Chaotic, Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & the Great Cabin Quest (or, Why I should've packed more snacks)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Vancouver International Airport. Disaster averted! (Mostly. My luggage is probably lost in the Bermuda Triangle of baggage claim, but hey, I survived the flight!) Grab the rental car. That's when everything went wrong. I am not a good driver. I'm just saying. The navigation thingy got me lost. I made a wrong turn.
- 3:00 PM: Finally headed past the city. I forgot to fill gas.
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at Ruby Lake Resort. The photos online? They lied! Okay, not lied, but they sure as heck weren't as realistic as the mosquito bite on my arm. Check-in. The woman at the desk, bless her heart, was clearly used to dealing with my kind. "Welcome to the resort, dear. Your cabin is… unique." Oh great.
- 4:30PM: Cabin check-in. Okay, it's not a palace, but hey, it’s a roof over my head. But where is the remote? OH MY GOD! THE TV. The very soul of the 21st century depends on its existence. I must find the remote!
- 5:30 PM: Found the remote!!!! Ah. The peace. I'm exhausted. It's perfect.
- 6:30 PM: Dinner at the resort restaurant (hopefully, they have something besides re-heated mystery meat). A few things:
- The bread was crusty.
- I spilled wine on myself.
- 8:00 PM: Stargazing on the dock. Holy mother of cosmic beauty! The sky is so full of stars. Feeling all the feels. This is why I came. This is why I suffer through rental car rentals.
- 9:00 PM: Bedtime. Or attempting to. The crickets outside are singing the opera of my insomnia. This isn’t a peaceful slumber.
Day 2: Lake Life, Lost Keys, and the Sushi Debacle (Oh, the shame!)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up. Coffee. The resort coffee is, well, a crime against caffeine.
- 9:00 AM: Go on a kayak. The lake is gorgeous. I feel like a seasoned explorer, even I don’t know how to paddle. It’s fine. A very important part of living is trying, at least.
- 11:00 AM: Oops, lost the cabin key! I swear, I am a walking disaster. Back to the front desk (again). The woman at the desk looks at me like I'm her least favourite child. I mumbled something about "adventure" and "being one with nature." She just sighed.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at the little cafe in the resort. The pizza. They have great pizza.
- 1:30 PM: Sushi restaurant in town. The sushi was a disaster. I think I ate too much.
- 3:00 PM: Afternoon nap. I am exhausted. That sushi was also a crime against sushi-kind.
- 5:00 PM: Happy hour at the resort bar. Met a very strange but friendly couple. They kept talking about their pet ferret named Mr. Snuggles.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Back to the resort restaurant. I'm sticking to the bread.
- 8:30 PM: Attempt to watch the movie. The TV is on. The remote is in hand. I am asleep.
Day 3: Hiking, Humiliation, and Goodbye Ruby Lake (Maybe)
- 7:00 AM: Wake up. The birds sound much more pleasant than the crickets.
- 8:00 AM: Hike to the viewing point. It was harder than expected. I am out of shape. But the views! Oh my god, the views. Worth the sweat, the aching muscles, and the near-death experience with that particularly ambitious squirrel.
- 10:00 AM: Breakfast. Then I went kayaking again. The second time was better. I managed not to flip the kayak.
- 1:00:PM: Check out of the resort. It's a bittersweet moment. I'm leaving, and I'm slightly sad.
- 1:30:PM: Start driving. I am so bad at this. I should be ashamed. I am, but I'm not.
- 6:00:PM: Arrive at the airport. I give my thanks that the rental is over.
- 8:00 PM: Fly home.
Final Thoughts:
Ruby Lake Resort was… an experience. Would I go back? Maybe. After I recover. Seriously, I need a spa day and a lifetime supply of decent coffee.
Escape to Goodyear: Phoenix West's BEST Hotel Deal!
Escape to Paradise at Ruby Lake Resort: You THINK You Know, But... (A Messy Truth-Bomb)
Okay, so you're considering Ruby Lake Resort, huh? "Paradise," they call it. Well, buckle up, buttercup, because real life (and this FAQ) is a lot messier than those Instagram ads. I've been. I've seen. I've... experienced. And let me tell you, it's a ride.
1. Is Ruby Lake *actually* paradise? Like, for real?
Look, paradise? Let's just say it's got a complex relationship with the word. The lake *is* outrageously beautiful. Emerald green, glassy smooth in the mornings… You get that "breathe deeply and forget your life" feeling. But then there's the mosquitos. Oh. The mosquitos. They're like tiny, winged vampires with a taste for tourists. Bring ALL the bug spray. Seriously. I went through a *can* a day. And let's not forget the occasional grumpy goose who takes exception to your canoe. So, paradise? Mostly. With added wildlife drama. It's a mixed bag, like my ex.
2. The Website Says "Luxury": Is the Luxury, Luxurious?
Okay, "luxury"... it depends on your definition. The cabins are cute. Rustic-chic, they call it. Think: exposed beams, a fireplace that MAY or MAY NOT work perfectly the first try (mine didn't - I had to call the maintenance guy, bless his heart, THREE times), and a vibe that's less "palatial estate" and more "charming cabin with a slight hint of… well, age." The beds were comfy, though. That's important. And the views from the deck? Spectacular. But if you're expecting, like, a personal butler and a diamond-encrusted toilet seat? Temper those expectations. This is more "cozy escape" than "Versace villa." And honestly, sometimes cozy is better than Versace.
3. Tell me about the food. Is it worth the hype?
Okay, the food. This is where things get... variable. Breakfast was generally good. Pancakes were fluffy, bacon crispy, the coffee strong - a necessity after battling the mosquitos all night. Lunch, however, felt a tad… unimaginative. Think sandwiches, salads, and the occasional questionable-looking fruit platter. Dinner? That's where they try to up the game. Some nights are culinary triumphs! Local ingredients, creative dishes… I had one meal that was genuinely *amazing*. But other nights? Let's just say I was secretly eyeing the nearby grocery store. The biggest issue is the consistency. One day you're in foodie heaven, the next you're contemplating requesting a simple grilled cheese. My advice? Lower your expectations, pack some snacks (always), and hope for the best. And for the love of all that is holy, bring antacids. I never thought I'd need them so much!
4. What is there to *do* at Ruby Lake Resort? Besides, you know, *breathe deeply*?
Well, let's be honest, a lot of breathing deeply happens. And that's a good thing! But, there's more. Canoeing. Kayaking. Paddleboarding (if you're steady on your feet, unlike moi). Hiking trails – some are easy peasy, others will make your quads scream. They offer yoga classes, which is great if you are already bendy and not, like, me. Then there's the... spa. Which is nice, I guess. The massage wasn't terrible, but the room felt a little… basic. And the "relaxation area"? Let's just say I heard a LOT of snoring. Really, the best thing to do is embrace the "do nothing" vibe. Read a book. Stare at the lake. Complain about the mosquitos. It's a good life.
5. Okay, fine, but *what about the bugs*? Seriously.
Oh, the bugs. They're not a joke. They are a *force*. The mosquitos were relentless. I’m talking, I was getting bitten through my clothes. It's a war of attrition. Bug spray is your best friend, your lover, your only hope. And be prepared for the itchy aftermath. And the odd spider, lurking in the corners of the cabin. And the ants. And the occasional… other flying things that you just don't want to deal with. You've been warned. Pack multiple, DEET-laden bug sprays. You can thank me later. Buy extra spray. I am not joking.
6. I'm a sucker for a good view. Are the views *really* as good as they say?
YES. Absolutely, unequivocally YES. The views are stunning. The way the light dances on the water in the morning… the colors during sunset… It's genuinely breathtaking. I spent hours just sitting on my deck, staring. It's worth the price of admission, honestly. Even the grumpy geese couldn't ruin it. And trust me, they tried. Take lots of pictures, even though they won’t truly capture the immensity of the scale.
7. This place is a bit… secluded, isn't it? Is there Wi-Fi? And should I care?
Uh, yes. It's *very* secluded. You’re basically in the middle of nowhere. And yes, there is Wi-Fi. It exists. It’s finicky. Sometimes it worked. Sometimes it didn’t. Embrace the digital detox, my friend. Get off your phone. You’re on vacation. Read a book. Stare at the lake. Talk to the person you came with (or the geese). Seriously, you’ll survive without Instagram for a few days. I did, and I'm a social media addict! It's liberating, honestly.
8. Okay, spill. What was the ONE thing that truly *sucked*?
Hmmm. This is tough. I’d have to say… the service, sometimes. Look, everyone was *trying*. They were friendly enough. But, it felt… disorganized. The staff were not always super knowledgeable about the local area. One time, I ordered room service and it took over an hour. And it was *cold*. I didn’t complain – I was too busy staring at the lake to care, in the grand scheme of things. But it definitely wasn't perfect. Sometimes you have to wait. Sometimes, things don't go according to schedule. It's part of the "Urban Hotel Search
