The pamphlet describing the Pinnacle Lodge and Spa located at Sun Peaks, British Columbia, Canada, comments that "The moment you set foot into Pinnacle Lodge and Spa you'll realize that you have arrived at a very special place."

You don't need to set foot in the lodge to realize that you have arrived at a very special place.

Service
Even before all of our party were out of the car, Jay Smith and staff met us on the stairs to the Lodge. Jay escorted us a short distance to the "check-in" counter while his staff helped unload skis and luggage.

We were all given keys to our rooms, and padlocks to our individual lockers where we would store our skis.

Ski in access to The Pinnacle Lodge

Having driven from Calgary, Alberta, which took the best part of a day, all of us were anxious to see our rooms. Without exception, we were pleased with what we found. Each room had luxurious beds, a private balcony, and a warm fireplace.

In the bathroom, there was a soaker tub, terry cloth robes, and my personal favourite, a heated tile floor. The small containers of shampoo and lotion were laid out on a bed of small polished stones artfully displayed on a square plate sink-side. The towels were large and fluffy.

After a good nights sleep, we gathered in the main building around twin fireplaces for breakfast. Each morning we were served a hot breakfast, each time it was something different and innovative. Coffee, hot chocolate, and orange juice flowed freely.

The Resort

Aviawest at The Pinnacle (#A715)
2503 Eagle Court
Sun Peaks, BC V0E 5N0 Canada
Phone: 250.578.7850
www.pinnaclelodgesunpeaks.com

A highlight of skiing at Sun Peaks is the "Sticky Cinnamon Buns" that are available in a lodge at the top of the Sunburst Express ski lift starting about 11:30 am.

In the evening we took our appetites to the village that is an easy five-minute walk from the Lodge and Spa.

One night we opted for noisy and wild, while on the other nights we opted for quiet and sophisticated cuisine.

Sun Peaks Resort Golf Course
Photo by Adam Stein, courtesy of Tourism Sun Peaks

Skiing
What can you say about skiing at Sun Peaks? It was terrific. There are three mountains surrounding the village, and the snow and temperatures were ideal.

The village is located at 4,000 ft. above sea level. The top of Mt. Tod is 7,000 ft., giving you 3,000 ft. of vertical and 3400 acres of skiable terrain to do with as you please. It was gorgeous.

After skiing, back at the Lodge, the first activity was to soak in the hot tub that was kept at a comfortable 105 degrees. The adjoining sauna didn't get much use; we needed to save something for next time. Daily maid service kept our rooms clean and organized, and the wireless internet allowed us to stay in touch with home or office.

After three days at Pinnacle Lodge and Spa, there are still some ski trails to be conquered, but right now, I am looking forward to challenging their 18-hole golf course this summer. Better get on the phone with RCI.

- Ken Teare