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For this week's story, we were lucky enough to partner with Ruth and Shelby @RuthandShelby to get the inside scoop complete with a video of this experience.
Your adventure begins as you step into the enchanting Kootenays, where the majestic landscapes of British Columbia meet with great food and relaxing spa experiences. The legendary Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort awaits to be your sanctuary, a haven where the waters heal, and the mountains whisper ancient tales.
As you arrive at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, the sunlight dances on the surrounding peaks, welcoming you to a world of relaxation and natural beauty. The air, crisp and filled with the scent of pine, invites you to take a deep breath and take in your surroundings. The resort, a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, promises an escape from the mundane. A place where adventure and relaxation combine.
The Healing Waters Call
The famed hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties, beckon.
Will you:
A. Surrender to the embrace of the hot springs, allowing the mineral-rich waters to soothe your muscles and calm your mind as you gaze at the stars emerging in the twilight sky.
B. Venture out to explore the resort and its surroundings, finding solace in the whispering trees and the gentle lapping of the lake's waters against the shore, a prelude to the adventures that await.
@RuthandShelby add, “The minerals in the hot springs will make you both, sleepy and hungry, so go prepared to grab a meal at the Ktunaxa Grill and have the best nap of your life”.
Dinner at Ktunaxa Grill
Come dinner, the Ktunaxa Grill opens its doors to a world of indigenous-inspired cuisine. Will you choose:
A. The cedar-planked salmon, which carries the essence of the forest and the purity of the rivers, is a dish that tells the story of the land.
B. The venison stew, like a hearty and warming hug, the dish celebrates the rugged terrain and the bounty it provides.
Then, will you go back to the springs for a dip before turning in? Or, head to your room for a quiet, cozy night.
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Dawn breaks, casting a golden light over the mountains. Today, you're bound for Crawford Bay, a community where artisans breathe life into their crafts. The ferry ride across Kootenay Lake is a journey through time. The 35-minute ferry ride to the East Shore is breathtaking and totally free!
Locals, @RuthandShelby note, “It's almost hard to believe that there are so many artisans living in the same cozy community in Crawford Bay”.
Morning Choices: Where to go first?
Upon arrival, the quaint village beckons. Will you:
A. Seek the warmth of Red's Bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air, and the coffee is always rich and bold, a perfect start to your day of exploration.
B. Immerse yourself in the artisan shops, each a treasure trove of creativity and craftsmanship, from the intricate weaves of the Barefoot Weaver to the hand-forged beauty of local metalworks and artisan broom making.
Lunch in Crawford Bay
The culinary adventure continues with a choice between two local gems:
A. The Black Salt Cafe, where the kale salad tells secrets from the garden, and the smoked meat sandwich is a testament to the art of slow cooking.
B. The Hub Eatery and Pub, where Chicken & Waffles become a playful dance of flavours, sweet and savoury mingling in a symphony of taste.
Afternoon Relaxation at Himalayan Salt Cave
As morning turns to afternoon, you start back to Nelson's Himalayan Salt Cave, where skilled hands use ancient techniques to release your tensions, and the vibrations of gongs and bowls resonate with your very being, harmonizing body and soul.
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The day's journey culminates in a feast for the senses at Sprout Plant-Based Eatery, a one-of-a-kind local gem catering to all dietary preferences. The choice is yours:
A. The Tequila Sunrise Burger, is a riot of colours and flavours that celebrate the joy of plant-based cuisine.
B. The Ginger 'Beef' Wrap, a savoury delight and testament to the art of culinary innovation.
@RuthandShelby recommend the Sprout menu items mentioned.
Evening Reflections
As the evening turns to night, the hot springs call you back for one last embrace. Will you:
A. Return to the healing waters, letting the warmth and quiet of the night envelop you, a moment of solitude and reflection.
B. Choose the comfort of your room, a cocoon of warmth and softness, where the day's memories mingle with dreams of tomorrow.
On the final morning, you may be tempted to dive into the hot springs one last time. Either way, don't miss the perfect stop for an amazing cup of locally roasted coffee, along with dine-in or grab-and-go breakfasts, at Oso Negro in Nelson.
@kelownanow.com Contest Alert: Take the quiz and choose your own Nelson Kootenay Lake Adventure Link in bio. Week #4 Culinary spa getaway featuring @ruthandshelby #FindingAwesome #ExploreKootenayLake @nelsonkootenaylake ♬ original sound - KelownaNow
As your visit draws to a close, remember Nelson and Kootenay Lake remain just a short drive away, and it doesn't have to end here. Take the Choose Your Own Adventure quiz for a chance to win your choice of five getaway itineraries, including this Culinary and Spa Experience including:
As you bid farewell to Nelson and Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, the memories of your journey linger like the gentle touch of the waters, the flavours of the land, and the peace of the mountains. Your adventure may have come to an end, but the stories you've created and the choices you've made will forever remain.
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