As Canada welcomes football fans from around the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there’s never been a better time to look beyond the host cities and discover the country’s remarkable luxury lodges. While Vancouver, Toronto and other urban centres will undoubtedly draw crowds, Canada’s true magic often lies in its vast wilderness, rugged coastlines, and remote communities.
From a safari-style retreat hidden in the rainforests, to a design-savvy inn perched on the edge of the North Atlantic, these exceptional properties offer travellers the chance to experience a side of Canada that few visitors ever see. Whether you're planning a World Cup itinerary or simply dreaming of a future escape, these are three of Canada's most unforgettable luxury stays.
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, British Columbia
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Vancouver Island, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge redefines the concept of glamping. Accessible only by boat, seaplane or helicopter, the remote retreat sits within the spectacular Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO-designated reserve renowned for its ancient temperate rainforest and abundant wildlife.
The property features just 25 luxury safari tents, each appointed with antique-inspired furnishings, plush beds, and contemporary comforts that feel worlds away from traditional camping. Guests wake up to views of forest, mountains and ocean, with black bears, bald eagles, whales and sea otters often making appearances nearby.
Adventure is woven into every stay. Days can be spent horseback riding through aged forests, kayaking across sheltered inlets, canyoning through glaciered rivers, or taking helicopter rides over the dramatic landscape. Private guided experiences allow visitors to explore at their own pace while immersing themselves in one of Canada's most spectacular natural environments.
Luxury extends well beyond the activities. The Cookhouse restaurant showcases Pacific Northwest ingredients through ever-changing menus, while waterfront cedar hot tubs, a wellness centre, yoga studio and massage tents provide opportunities to unwind after a day outdoors.
The lodge has also earned the distinction of holding Three Michelin Keys, one of hospitality's highest honours.
Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland and Labrador
On a remote island off Newfoundland's northeast coast stands one of the world's most celebrated examples of destination-driven hospitality. Fogo Island Inn appears almost sculptural against the rocky shoreline, its striking architecture inspired by the traditional fishing structures that have defined life on the island for generations.
Designed by architect Todd Saunders, the inn was conceived as both a luxury destination and a spark for community restoration. Built on stilts that echo the region's historic fishing stages, the structure minimises its environmental footprint, while offering uninterrupted views of the North Atlantic Ocean.
The property's 29 suites are intentionally free from televisions, encouraging guests to engage with the surrounding landscape instead. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame passing icebergs, migrating whales, and some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Canada.
Handmade quilts, bespoke furniture and artisan-crafted details also contribute to telling the story of Newfoundland's rich cultural heritage.
What truly sets Fogo Island Inn apart is its commitment to community. Revenue generated through the inn supports local initiatives and economic development projects, creating a tourism model that benefits residents while preserving cultural traditions.
Guests are invited to experience island life through guided hikes, storytelling sessions, boat-building workshops, fishing excursions, and interactions with local residents who act as cultural ambassadors.
Long Beach Lodge Resort, British Columbia
Located on the edge of Cox Bay near the surfing town of Tofino, Long Beach Lodge Resort delivers a distinctly different interpretation of Canadian luxury. Here, the focus is on relaxed coastal sophistication, paired with front-row access to one of the country’s most beautiful stretches of shoreline.
The resort occupies an advantaged position overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where crashing waves, drifting fog, and towering forests create an atmosphere that feels restorative. Spacious lodge rooms and private cottages blend contemporary comfort with west coast design influences, many featuring ocean views and easy beach access.
Surfing is at the heart of the Long Beach experience. Cox Bay is widely regarded as one of Canada's premier surf destinations, attracting everyone from first-time surfers to seasoned professionals. Guests can take lessons through the resort's surf club, paddle out into the waves, or simply watch the action unfold from the comfort of the beachfront deck.
Beyond surfing, the surrounding region offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whale watching, storm watching, rainforest hikes, and kayaking excursions showcase the incredible biodiversity of Vancouver Island's west coast. During the cooler months, powerful Pacific storms transform the shoreline into a dramatic natural show.
The Great Room, with its soaring timber architecture and panoramic ocean views, serves as the social heart of the resort. Here, guests gather around fireplaces, enjoy locally inspired cuisine, and watch sunsets across the coastline in shades of gold and pink.
For World Cup visitors already planning time in Vancouver, Long Beach Lodge Resort offers an easy extension to a city stay, combining coastal adventure, exceptional scenery and relaxed luxury.
The Perfect Canadian Detour
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will introduce millions of visitors to Canada's vibrant cities, but some of the country's most memorable experiences lie far beyond the stadiums. Whether it's spotting bears in the rainforests of Clayoquot Sound or surfing the wild Pacific coastline near Tofino, these luxury lodges showcase the extraordinary diversity of the Canadian landscape.
For those looking to balance the excitement of the tournament with unforgettable experiences in nature, these destinations prove that the journey beyond the final whistle can be every bit as thrilling as the matches themselves.
