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Inns E-Magazine / Summer 2014
Originally from Ontario Elaine and Alan Dillabaugh relocated to Vancouver Island, British Columbia for a job and lived 'up island'. They loved theVictoria area and wanted to build their dream home with a view. Elaine says, “We must have looked at 25 homes and couldn't find the right one.” A friend took them up to the
Malahat located just 20 minutes north of Victoria where there happened to be a lot that was just perfect, but it wasn’t for sale. They researched who owned it and tracked them down and made an offer. Seven years later they built their dream home. They opened their B&B in 1998. “You can see the snow capped Olympic Mountains in the USA as well as views of Washington State and Port Angeles." Their wedding chapel and the breakfast area both look out to Mount Baker and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. That is the benefit of building your own inn: “a multi-million dollar view!”
The inn sits on five acres that are utilized by a beautiful barn that houses the resident paint horses. Guests can bring their own horses to stay overnight for the bed and bale package. Their property has numerous trails to ride. In addition they have added chickens and pigs and turkeys and welcome all guests to come and visit the animals. There are four beautifully appointed guest suites and each one offers the breathtaking view. Guests love the elegant touches the B&B offers. Alan and Elaine make their own wine and champagne that they serve to their guests. Along with homemade cookies and cheese and crackers etc., it is a very personalized service.
Elaine says, “There is nothing like getting a great cup of coffee." If you are a connoisseur you'll be elated when served the house specialty: Torfazzione coffee. Elaine says it is the best coffee in the world and she also has an
espresso machine and can offer lattes and cappuccinos. Breakfast is a gourmet treat and starts with fresh fruit (they have an orchard
and bushes planted and are awaiting on growing their own produce and offering farm to table). An entrée follows such as, eggs Benedict, frittatas
or pancakes. Elaine loves the Looney Spoons Cook book, based on healthy eating that tastes great. Luxury, deliciousness mixed with some outdoor adventure all wrapped up with a view like no other makes this retreat a one-of-a-kind find!
573 Ebedora Ln, Malahat,
British Columbia
(250) 743-9378
By Mary Hughes
Offers the Most Amazing View
in North America!
Prancing Horse Retreat
Prancing Horse Retreat