A REMOTE LODGE IN KITASOO XAI’XAIS TERRITORY
Spirit Bear Lodge sits on the waterfront in Klemtu, a small coastal community in British Columbia, within the Traditional Territory of the Kitasoo Xai’xais People. The setting is wild and expansive, where forest meets open ocean and the days are shaped by weather, tides and wildlife movement. It is one of the most remote wildlife-viewing lodges in the province, offering access to a vast and rarely visited stretch of the Great Bear Rainforest.
Architecturally, the lodge pays homage to the traditional longhouses built by West Coast First Nations. Inside, the atmosphere is modern, relaxed and deliberately comfortable, designed as an easy place to return to after long days on the water. With only 12 rooms, the accommodation feels intimate and calm, with ocean views and flexible bedding arrangements for couples or friends travelling together.
The experience here is grounded in both wildlife and culture. Excursions run across Kitasoo Xai’xais territory, with each day tailored to local conditions and recent sightings. While the spirit bear is a defining focus, guests may also encounter grizzly bears, humpback whales, orca, sea lions, otters and eagles along the coastline. Evenings return to the lodge for a slower pace, with time to relax in the Great Room or on the ocean-view deck.
Meals are a central part of lodge life. Dinner is a communal experience, with West Coast-inspired dishes served in a shared setting where guests swap stories from the day. Stays are typically offered as four- or six-night packages, including return flights from Vancouver to Bella Bella and onward transfers to Klemtu. Spirit Bear Lodge also supports local stewardship and conservation through a per-person conservation fee, ensuring each stay contributes directly to protecting this extraordinary region.
SPIRIT BEAR LODGE
At a glance
- Small, Indigenous-owned lodge in Klemtu on British Columbia’s remote Central Coast
- Located in the Traditional Territory of the Kitasoo Xai’xais People, in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest
- Only 12 rooms, with ocean views and king or twin configurations
- Lodge exterior references traditional West Coast longhouses; interiors are modern and relaxed
- Designed as a base for guided wildlife viewing and cultural connection in a truly remote region
- Most stays are offered as four- or six-night packages, including return flights from Vancouver to Bella Bella
- A conservation fee of $200 per guest supports stewardship and conservation efforts in the Great Bear Rainforest
For leisure and pleasure
- Guided excursions through Kitasoo Xai’xais territory, tailored daily based on wildlife activity, tides and weather
- Wildlife viewing that may include spirit bear searches, grizzly bear viewing and whale watching
- Cultural connection through local staff, storytelling and visits to culturally significant sites
- Communal dining with West Coast-inspired meals and a shared lodge atmosphere
- Ocean-view deck and Great Room lounge for downtime between excursions
Planning my first solo trip felt like a big step, but The Ultimate Travel Company made it easy from the outset. I reached out over a year in advance, and Rob Kent quickly put together a thoughtful itinerary based on exactly what I was looking for, securing great flights and always being available to talk things through. Everything ran smoothly and I felt looked after every step of the way. The accommodation in Japan, Fiji and Tahiti was excellent and the experiences unforgettable.
The team understand our family’s needs and consistently tailor each trip to suit us perfectly. From carefully chosen hotels to excellent local partners and well-planned touring, the advice and recommendations are always spot on.
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