As the weather gets warmer, we start thinking about summer weekend getaways. Rowena’s Inn on the River is the perfect escape to unwind and completely relax. Just an hour and a half outside of Vancouver on Harrison Lake, the property has it’s own runway for small planes, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and one of the Lower Mainland’s best golf courses, Sandpiper Golf Resort.

You can stay in a cozy room at the historic English inspired house adorned with family pictures on the walls and antiques dating back to the early 1900’s, such as the original stair railing from Hotel Vancouver.

You can also stay in your very own private cottage, as I did, with fire place, 2 person jaccuzzi, king size bed and picturesque view.  Even though the sun didn’t shine, there was something about the sound of rain, fire crackling and a glass of wine in my hand that made the experience magical.

I hungrily indulged in one of the most delicious breakfasts, delivered in a picnic basket right to my cottage’s front door. There was fresh squeezed orange juice, coffee, blueberry pancakes, eggs benedict, hash browns, sausage, bacon, fresh fruit, and freshly baked scones and muffins.

Rowena’s is located on a gorgeous golf course, but there’s plenty more to do than golf – high-tea in the manor and  fine dining in the Rivers Edge Restaurant. I had the Steamed Qualicum Bay Mussels in a buttery white wine ($12), then moved on to the Herb Seared Halibut (left, $28) and the Rack of Lamb (right, $26). The next night was a Friday where AAA Canadian Prime Rib dinner is on special (from $19). There’s nothing like a giant homemade Yorshire pudding to bring back the feeling of my own family nostalgia.

You can also relax with a massage in your private cottage. I had an hour long massage in front of the crackling fire from Brenda Bailey of Sunset Holistic Therapies (6660 Pioneer Ave. Agassiz, BC, 604-703-3038) . Her services include a 60 minute aromatherapy massage ($82) and a Natural Face Lift and Mask ($105), to name a few.

Possibly one of the most special memories I have of Rowena’s Inn on the River is the stylish owner Betty Anne, who’s turquoise loose fitted top and white pants gave us an instant connection. After living in West Vancouver for 30 years, she moved back to the place she was born. It’s her love and passion for what she does that connects you to her and the resort. “My mom and dad always loved to entertain, and that’s one of the many things I love about Rowena’s Inn on the River”, Betty Anne.