Like a fairy tale: 8 dream vacation rentals in British Columbia

Of Tofino at SquamishBritish Columbia is unquestionably home to some of the most beautiful places in the world.

There’s no better way to experience our backyard than by staying in a cozy cabin by the water. Here’s a look at eight of the most “wish-listed” properties on Airbnb to relax, unwind and soak up the Instagram-worthy views.

Cob Cottage, Isle of Mayne

This whimsical house seems to belong to The Hobbit or a Disney fairy tale. Escape to the Cob Cottage on Mayne Island for a comfortable and relaxing retreat in what might be one of the finest properties in the province.

The one-of-a-kind mud house features a treehouse like stairway leading to the loft-style bedroom, a cute little deck, and the coziest reading nook in front of the window.

You can’t get more adult summer camp than this.

Alfie A-Frame Cabin, Sechelt

This woodsy getaway is Airbnb’s second most “wish-listed” property in Canada. Soak up the striking views of Sechelt Inlet at the Alfie the A-Frame cabin, which offers complete seclusion to relax and unplug.

The stunning loft-style bedroom overlooks the beach, which is just a three-minute walk away. End your day in the sun with a relaxing soak in the old school clawfoot tub.

Owl’s Perch Treehouse, Sooke

Who said treehouses were just for kids? Channel your inner Tarzan at Sooke Perched hut of the owl.

The house for two guests is attached to four tall trees, taking it nine meters off the ground (be prepared for the 50-step staircase going up). Note: The bedroom is only accessible by a ladder, so this unique stay is not for everyone.

Ocean View Cottage, Beau Mountain

This sunny and airy beautiful mountain retreat is one for animal lovers.

Get up close to some alpacas at this airy and bright property, which is in the West Coast Hills neighborhood of Sooke (they hang out at the bottom of the steps).

The chalet includes several unique features, including an outdoor kitchen perfect for the summer months.

There’s also a cozy fire pit located on a rooftop patio that overlooks the postcard-worthy ocean.

SecretCoveTreehouse Cottage, Half Moon Bay

This small place for two (545 square feet) packs a lot of punch. The SecretCoveTreehouse Cottage offers an elegant yet rustic design in Half Moon Bay, just five minutes from Smuggler’s Cove Provincial Park and nearby Rockwater Secret Cove Resort.

Soak up the sun or admire the stars in the evening from the outdoor shower, open from mid-March to mid-October each year.

Other amazing amenities at this cliffside property include a jacuzzi overlooking the premier and ocean and a clawfoot tub.

Guests can also put their grilling skills to the test with a covered outdoor barbecue.

Cederwood Cove Cabin, Tofino

There’s a reason Tofino remains one of the top-rated places in the world to visit. Enjoy this small town on Vancouver Island with a stay in a rustic and luxurious hotel Cederwood Cove Cabin.

Located directly on the waterfront, this spot for two has all the IG-worthy views one could want of the mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

A private hot tub, waterfront dock, fire pit, and outdoor hammock are some of the few vacation-worthy offerings at this stunning location, which is also just minutes from major surf beaches (Chesterman and Cox Bay), restaurants and cafes.

For the adventurous, bikes (and helmets), paddle boards and surfboards are also available.

Vintage Warehouse Loft, Vancouver

The Vintage Warehouse Loft is an escape here in Vancouver. The airy space looks straight out of the box with its eclectic decor, plants, and cozy yet modern kitchen.

A comfy leather sofa takes center stage in this open-plan apartment that features an old-school record player and gramophone, as well as wood-beamed ceilings and brick walls.

Waterfront Cabin, Squamish

This Squamish oasis is a stone’s throw from town. Relax and recharge at this rustic private cabin which offers complete isolation.

Like many properties, stunningly stunning views are the norm here. The bedroom overlooks the Howe Sound, and if you’re lucky you might wake up to some wild animals swimming around.

Paddle boards and canoes are available to hit the water from your own private beach.