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Saturday, November 14, 2009

Hastings House Country Estate: hidden gem for weddings.

As a favourite wedding venue on Salt Spring Island, Hastings House is a hotel that we just had to check out! A Day to Remember was graciously invited to spend a weekend at the hotel experiencing all the beauty, relaxation and art that Salt Spring Island has to offer.

Hastings House is an 18-room English-style Inn is right on Ganges Harbour and sits on a 22-acre property. It is known for its excellent gardens, fine food and wine in a quiet, natural setting. Each suite is uniquely designed, giving guests a truly individual experience and most have amazing ocean views. With such breathtaking views, it is no wonder Hastings House is a wedding favourite among couples. With the choice of distinctive indoor and outdoor wedding sites, Hastings House can host small intimate weddings for up to 60 guests.

Upon our arrival we were greeted by Hastings House manager Shirley McLaughlin who gave us a tour of the suites & property. Right away we were in awe at the serenity the property evokes. There is a spa on premise and the hotel can accommodate up to 48 people. Shirley set us up in a beautiful room called Manor East, which is a two room suite with ocean views and a wood-burning fireplace (which we just loved!) The bedroom was furnished with antique oak and the bed was so comfortable it was hard to get up in the morning! When we finally managed to, we were welcomed into the dining room for a fabulous breakfast before leaving the property to explore the island.

[view from our living room window]






While exploring the island we went up to Mount Maxwell for the stunning views of Vancouver Island, the surrounding Gulf Islands and the mainland of BC. We also visited Fulford Harbour where we found some great shops & cafés.

All the meals on the island were delicious (especially the crab!) Most of the food offered on the island is fresh, local, organic ingredients. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner with the Hastings House owners at their fine dining restaurant and the beef tenderloin was to die for! All in all, we discovered there is no better place to relax then this gorgeous island on the Gulf Islands. And we are looking forward to plan some amazing weddings at the beautiful Hastings House in Salt Spring Island.