"I came to Poets Cove for 3 nights on a solo trip. First time visiting Pender Island and I came without a car.
Poets Cove offers a shuttle bus that comes to pick travellers up from Otter Bay and brings them to the hotel. However, the bus didn't show up and I was stuck at the terminal for about 30-45 minutes. They said the bus broke down. The general manager came and picked me up and brought me to the hotel. On the way, he gave me a nice tour of the island and explained how things work on Pender Island. It was an enjoyable conversation.
Heads up: There is no transit on the island, but they have "car stops" which are benches on the side of the road and locals can give you a ride wherever you want if they're going in the same direction.
The hotel has its own restaurant and the food was outstanding. The restaurant staff are very accommodating and personable. I didn't find the food too expensive but expect to pay at least $30 CAD per meal.
Since I came in the off-season, the cafe next door was closed. And since I didn't have a car, I couldn't really leave the hotel to try other places unless I went to a car stop. So the only place to eat was the restaurant, but they are used to having travellers eat there repeatedly over the course of their stay.
I found my room to be very clean and I had a nice waterfall and a view of the marina outside of my room. I also had my own private balcony."
"Hotel was totally full with families for a soccer tournament. Very busy but the staff managed it all well. There was even a water bottle refill station full of Gatorade. Our child loved the pool facilities. Our room was clean and a good setup for a family. Really appreciated that it was pet friendly too. Nice they include a breakfast into the price with hot food options. Great place to stay for families. Good value overall and I’d stay there again."
"I do not recommend staying there. Our room smelled so strongly of cigarettes and the bathroom stunk of mold which you could clearly see all around the tub/shower too. The outside of the motel had a room with caution tape taping it off. Police were rolling in to check on people who were obviously living there. I did not feel safe and as soon as we woke up we left immediately. "
"This hotel was spotless! The cleaning crew was amazing. The breakfast is a typical continental breakfast, and very solid. Ample parking. The staff was exceptional. They coordinated taxi service for me, which was such a load off my mind. They also mitigated my own mistake in booking: I had missed a night that I needed when I originally entered my dates (my fault), so I made myself a second booking, thinking I'd just switch rooms and keep my stuff in my car during the affected day. But when I checked out from room 1, they were able to get me into room 2 right away, which I think is probably another point for the cleaning staff. Anyway, it was a nice surprise, since I was the one who had made a mistake in my booking. Very grateful to everyone!"
Yes, there are holiday rentals close to the most popular sights in Fernwood, or you can select a more secluded option if you're looking for a relaxing stay. Fernwood is known for its sightseeing tours and waterfront. Make sure you have time to check out the spas while you're in the area.
What can I see and do in Fernwood?
While exploring the area, visit family-friendly sights like Cowichan Aquatic Centre, or get outside and enjoy nature at Saint Mary Lake. Vesuvius Ferry Terminal and Salt Spring Island Golf Club are a couple of places you'll find in the wider area.
What are holiday rentals like in Fernwood?
Holiday rentals are privately owned properties you can book for a few days, or a quick weekend, in Fernwood. Holiday rentals feature amenities such as hot tubs, fire pits and patios so you'll have everything you want. If you're concerned about cleanliness, a holiday rental can offer a sense of security away from public hotel lifts and busy concierge desks while still allowing you the experience of travel. You'll also find more space in a holiday rental than in a standard hotel, which is another reason why a holiday rental is a popular option for a family getaway.
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