Hollyhock Farm is a retreat, vacation workshop and holistic center on Cortez Island, one of the Northern Gulf Islands off the B.C. coast.
Situated on 48 acres in an incredible setting of beachfront views, meadows and old growth forest, Hollyhock is a combination of the wild, the rustic and the modern. The lodge has comfortable sitting rooms, a large kitchen, and an eating/visiting deck, with a wonderful view of the ocean. In the back there is a large, colourful garden, a model of the French / intensive biodynamic method, where vegetables, fruit and glorious edible flowers are organically grown for the table. On one side, a rustic hot tub also looks over the sea.
Hollyhock's informative, helpful and friendly staff are there to help, to answer questions and see to it that our stay is enjoyable and we are pleased to consider many of them, as friends.
Accommodations range from singles and doubles with a private bath, rooms with shared baths, dorms and a campsite, with a large bathhouse. The rooms are spartan, but comfortable. They have oceanfront, orchard or forest settings.
Hollyhock also has body work studios with skillfull practitioners, ( Beverly is my favorite) a meditation center built by friends of Hollyhock, Raven and Kiakum, unique buildings used for conferences and the many workshops /seminars offered in a wide range of subjects including: Creative, Healing or Practical arts, month long intensives, Kayaking and Wilderness Adventures, Meditation Retreats, Private Conferences, Professional Development Courses and Work Study.
Sailing trips to the famous sea bird colony on Mitlenatch Island or Desolation Sound, a row in Hollyhock's 12-person dory, kayaking and nature walks on the seashore or in the old growth forest are available. The wildlife on the island is abundant, with deer, raccoons, sea birds, eagles and owls, ravens, hummingbirds and blue herons. Seals, otters and the odd killer whale may also be seen. This week during our stay, someone saw a grey whale, an unusual sighting for these parts.
One might also take part in community events, like storytelling, music or other arts, Cortez Days or the Hollyhock Faire. There are many talented craftspersons on the island.
Last but not least, are the world famous Hollyhock meals. The skilled and imaginative cooks provide gourmet vegetarian cuisine, served buffet style, using fresh organic vegetables, greens, herbs, berries and edible flowers from the garden, and wholesome grains, eggs and dairy. One night a week, local oysters are barbecued on the beach and fish is served along with the usual vegetables and salads. Special diets are also available if ordered ahead.
