Located on the tranquil shores of Sooke Basin, yet no more than 30 minutes from Victoria, British Columbia are the charming Westburn Seaside Cottages. Idyllic all year round, Westburns cozy cottages are a sanctuary for body and soul, the perfect place to get away from it all.

During the winter and spring, Westburns misty waters are alive with droves of harlquin ducks, loons, Canadian geese and majestic white swans. In the summer the basins protected warm water is perfect for swimming, fishing, canoeing and snorkelling.

Westburn is a place for people seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. The options are endless. You can open a book and cozy up to the fire, count the stars as you soak in your private hot tub or revitalize your spirit with a spa or holistic treatment.

Each of the fully equipped and self-contained cottages offers a cozy fireplace, private decks festooned with climbing roses, hot tub, memory foam beds and loads of charm. Just imagine yourself quietly tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and taking in the beautiful sweeping views of the west coasts awe-inspiring vistas.

Westburn Cottages presides over lush gardens on one of the most sheltered beaches on the Island. A walk on the beach will earn you sightings of otters, seals, swans, herons and if you are really lucky an orca or two.

The water is almost always calm here, Jackie says, and the beach is ideal for launching kayaks and canoes.

Guests are welcome to bring their own craft or Jackie will be happy to arrange a nearby rental. Shell also arrange fishing charters, kayak or canoe tours, whale watching, cycle treks, hiking and more.

For those of you in search of a little pampering, spa and holistic packages are available. Services range from massage, facials and pedicures to Chinese medicine, and reiki. The treatments are performed either in your cottage or on the grounds.

No matter what kind of holiday you are looking for, Westburn Seaside Cottages can provide. Available for lucky lovers is a romantic Valentines getaway package including champagne, strawberries and a five course dinner at a nearby gourmet restaurant.

The cottages showcase antiques, handmade furniture from talented local craftspeople, stained glass lamps, wood floors, local art and clawfoot bathtubs. The beds are luxurious and living rooms come complete with TV, DVD and CD players along with a wide assortment of books, CDs and DVDs.

Its very private, quiet and quaint. You can go into town, visit the art galleries, restaurants and pubs then come back to your cottage, have a massage, soak in your hot tub and roast marshmallows over an evening beach bonfire.

I couldn't think of a better way to spend a day.

To contact Westburn Seaside Cottages go to www.sookevacationhomes.ca.