A Serene Riverside Retreat in Port Alberni
Nestled along the banks of the Somass River in Port Alberni, British Columbia, West Coast River Lodge is a tranquil and intimate wedding venue that offers couples a truly unique experience. Surrounded by lush forests, moss-covered rock walls, and the soothing sounds of a nearby waterfall, this boutique lodge provides a serene and picturesque setting for your special day. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a celebration with up to 120 guests, West Coast River Lodge combines natural beauty with rustic charm to create a wedding that feels both magical and personal.
Why Choose West Coast River Lodge for Your Wedding?
A Nature Lover’s Paradise
West Coast River Lodge is a haven for couples who love the outdoors. The ceremony site, nestled in the forest with a quaint waterfall and stream, offers a peaceful and romantic backdrop for exchanging vows. The clear-roof reception tent allows guests to dine and dance under the stars while surrounded by towering trees and mossy landscapes. The Somass River, just steps away, provides a stunning setting for photos and a refreshing escape for guests during the celebration.
A Home Away from Home
One of the most unique features of West Coast River Lodge is its ability to accommodate up to 23 guests in the main lodge and an additional 3 in the Pool House. Each of the 8 bedrooms has its own bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy for your closest family and friends. The lodge’s cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place to spend quality time with loved ones, from the morning preparations to the evening celebrations.
Thoughtful Amenities and Features
West Coast River Lodge offers a variety of amenities to make your wedding day seamless and stress-free. The venue provides a clear-roof tent, tables, chairs, a portable bar, an outdoor kitchen, and even a wine cellar where couples can leave a bottle of wine as a sentimental keepsake. The lodge’s spacious indoor and outdoor spaces, including a pool, hot tub, and cedar sauna, ensure that your guests are entertained and comfortable throughout the celebration.
Guest Experience
A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
Guests at West Coast River Lodge are treated to a truly unique experience. The lodge’s rustic charm and natural surroundings create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making everyone feel right at home. The large windows in the main lounge area offer breathtaking views of the Somass River, while the outdoor spaces encourage guests to explore and connect with nature.
Convenient and Scenic
With ample parking and a secluded location, West Coast River Lodge is easily accessible while still feeling like a world away. The venue’s thoughtful layout ensures that guests can move seamlessly between the ceremony, reception, and relaxation areas, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere throughout the celebration.
A Photographer’s Perspective
Endless Photo Opportunities
West Coast River Lodge is a photographer’s dream, offering a variety of stunning backdrops for wedding portraits. The staircase decks overlooking the Somass River, the moss-covered rock walls, and the lush forest trails provide endless opportunities for creative and timeless imagery. The lodge’s large bay windows and rustic interiors add a touch of elegance to every shot.
Perfect for Every Moment
From the ceremony to the reception, West Coast River Lodge offers ideal settings for every part of your wedding day. The forested ceremony site provides a romantic and intimate backdrop, while the clear-roof tent creates a magical atmosphere for receptions. The venue’s proximity to the river and forest makes it easy to capture stunning photos without straying far from the celebration.
Featured Wedding Stories
Chantel & Tyler’s Riverside Celebration
Chantel and Tyler’s wedding at West Coast River Lodge was a beautiful blend of romance and fun. The couple exchanged vows in the forested ceremony site, surrounded by family and friends. Their reception in the clear-roof tent was a lively celebration, complete with heartfelt speeches, first dances, and plenty of dancing. The couple also left a bottle of wine in the lodge’s wine cellar, creating a lasting memory of their special day.
Renee & Hudson’s Forest Fairytale
Renee and Hudson’s wedding was a testament to love and perseverance. Despite the challenges posed by a nearby wildfire, the couple exchanged heartfelt vows in the forested ceremony site, with their infant daughter adding a touch of sweetness to the moment. The reception was a joyful celebration, complete with a choreographed dance led by Hudson and golden hour photos by the river.
The Perfect Venue for Nature-Loving Couples
West Coast River Lodge is ideal for couples who appreciate the beauty of nature, the warmth of a rustic setting, and the convenience of an all-in-one venue. Whether you’re drawn to the serene ceremony site, the cozy lodge accommodations, or the stunning river views, this venue offers a wedding experience that is both magical and unforgettable.
Ready to start planning your wedding at West Coast River Lodge? Visit their website to learn more or schedule a tour. Your dream wedding awaits at this riverside retreat!
Written by Canadian Wedding Photographer Deanna Veerman
About the Photographer
Devee Photography is owned and operated by Deanna, a passionate wedding photographer who has called Vancouver Island home for nearly her entire life. Inspired by the island’s rugged beauty and the uniqueness of the people she meets, Deanna’s approach is deeply personal and rooted in empathy.
When she’s not behind the camera, Deanna loves exploring the outdoors with her partner Yannick, indulging in craft beers, and hiking the island’s stunning trails. Her cats, whom she lovingly refers to as her “kids,” are never far from her heart.
Deanna’s personal experiences, including the loss of her parents, have shaped her profound appreciation for the power of photographs. To her, photography is not just about creating art but about preserving the fleeting moments that make life extraordinary. Her ability to see and capture the beauty in people’s lives has made her a trusted storyteller for couples across Vancouver Island.
To see more about Deanna visit: Deveephotography.net
