Glamping comes to the edge of Canada’s most stunning wilderness

There’s nowhere else in the world quite like the Canadian settlement of Tofino. Even getting there is a journey. It’s one of the westernmost points in British Columbia, nestled at the edge of the mountains—and you have to drive through the rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park to reach it if you’re going by car. The remote town is surrounded by hot springs hidden in rocky coves, misty beaches featuring surf-ready waves, and rocky islands hiding adventure of all sorts. Endangered wildlife and artsy locals share the area.

First Nations history, unlimited outdoor adventure, and vacation-y vibes meld together to form what might be Canada’s most spellbinding escape. In other words, it’s not hard to picture a glamping resort hidden somewhere in Tofino.

Glamping has been trending up for a few years now, and you can easily see why: Combining the best parts of luxury accommodations with the best parts of unplugging in nature is a win-win. A recent ReportLinker study found that burnt-out Americans, especially adult couples looking for restorative weekend getaways outside the city, will fuel the glamping market to $1 billion in revenue by 2024.

Enter Wildpod, a newly-opened “glampground” that brings the perfect mix of natural beauty and minimalist comfort and style to Tofino.

Right now, the site has six “pods,” or geodesic domes. The domes are perfect for glamping, as they allow for massive panoramic windows, fairy lights and chandeliers, a propane fireplace, locking doors, kitchenettes, decks with Adirondack chairs, and en suite bathrooms with showers. In other words, this ain’t your average yurt.

The hosts have taken a lot of time to make sure that everything about Wildpod is absolute perfection, from the soaps and mattresses to the placement of each pod for maximum view of scenery through the windows. Even the location is perfect; it’s right at the water’s edge, but still within walking distance of downtown.

Wildpod is only the newest place to get your glamp on in Tofino. It’s already home to one of the swankiest glampgrounds in the country, the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort. Inspired by the camps, resorts, and retreats of the 19th century Adirondack Mountains, the retreat’s luxurious antique vibe really does make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. But, you know, with heated floors in the antique-furnished tents, complimentary massages at the spa, and daily yoga classes.

Or, if you’re convinced that the views of Tofino need no extra amenities to be enjoyed, old-school camping remains as popular as ever. Bella Pacifica Campground offers a variety of sites, some of which are beachside or offer ocean views, and others which are more secluded back in the forest.

At the end of the day, there’s no wrong way to experience Tofino. Except maybe staying inside all day.