Logden Lodge

One can't really appreciate why the Logden Lodge Cabins are so special without knowing a bit about the hosts. Paul Hulshoff and Annelies Ellerman began work on the cabins in 2013, after deciding to settle in the area. They had most recently had been working in the diplomatic corps and as aid workers in Iran. One of the most magical aspects of Logden is the artwork showcased in each of the various cabins. Everything collected abroad, by the couple over years of travel, then packed, shipped and "hung" for cabin guests to enjoy. See a sample or two below. 

This is the only photo that I didn't take. I wanted to share what the place looks like in the winter so Paul and Annelies shared this one. Dreamy, eh? This is the Gold Cup cabin where we stayed.

Ooops, I lied. This is theirs too. The Gold Cup Cabin features art from the couple's Persian Asian collection. It has a cabin-y feel and it's luxurious at the same time.

The bathrooms are definitely a highlight of the experience. Logden Lodge bathrobes, a super-deep shower/tub, river rock and slate. Nice.

Here's a sample of the artwork at the Gold Cup below. This piece is from Iran and tells the story of a wedding. Because of the country's restrictions on art, there's a story hidden within this, to which Paul alluded on his tour. It's probably about 2 metres across and 1 metre high. Really lovely and unusual—all in the near-Ymir woods.

Here is the covered veranda. Very comfortable seating and a nice view. The grill is also better than what I have at home. It did justice to the two rib-eyes we brought along for dinner.

This is the downstairs bedroom in the Gold Cup Cabin. The various beds allow for the comfort of different kinds of groups—either two couples in two beds or four separate beds. It seems like the beds and the bathrooms are where the hosts may have invested most. Good strategy. 

Here's a little utility shed that I just had to photograph. Look how the wood is piled up. All around the lodge grounds, you can see the special touch and taste of Paul and Annelies—and appreciate the effort that went into it. If you are keen, ask for a bird house tour. 

Paul and Annelies, below. To be successful running a show like this, hosts have to give guests plenty of space and privacy—but be close by if ever needed. These two have figured out that special balance. 

• All cabins feature custom built rustic wooden cabinetry & furniture, such as beds, bedroom closets, kitchen cabinets and dining tables.
• Spacious, covered, private veranda where you can enjoy the wildlife, the mountain views or the soothing sound of Elise creek.
• Each cabin is designed to sleep up to 4 persons in two separate bedrooms. One extra person can be accommodated on a separate mattress in the living room. 
• A cozy intimate size bedroom with Queen size bed downstairs and a bedroom in the loft with beds that vary from Queen size to 2 Twin XL sized beds that make the perfect King.
• Spacious sitting area with adjoining separate dining area and fully equipped kitchen downstairs centering a wood burning stove
• Spacious one and a half bathroom with soaker bath.
• Luxury linens, goose down duvets & feather down pillows.
• Canadian made luxurious Plush & Pillow Top beds in each cabin.
• Delicious fresh water directly from Elise creek (drinking water is filtered just to be on the safe side).
• Cabins are accessed by foot only and Lodge provided transport

Logden Lodge is definitely one of the best options in the Nelson/Ymir area to get away from it all (even if wifi is an option). Choose one of four cabins and have a nice ski touring week with two couples. Heck, you can rent out all four cabins and have a wedding there—it has been done, and with great success. The cabins are spaced out such that each has its own little zone and privacy isn't an issue.

What really makes this place so special is the touch of Paul and Annelies; this is not your standard series of Kootenay hillbilly cabins. Because of the exotic artwork and cabin design, Logden Lodge has a "special sauce" that's very uncommon in these parts. Remarkably cozy and well thought-out, the cabins are entirely comfortable and engaging at the same time. 

We were there in mid-spring and it was lovely. I'm hoping our next visit will be in the winter. That's likely when the cabin's cozy comfort goes turbo. A wood stove, heavenly duvets and deep tubs—all within spitting distance of Kootenay Pass and the Whitewater Ski Resort backcountry. 

Who should stay there?

• Couples wanting to get away from it all any time of the year
• Backcountry ski fanatics looking for an ideally situated, and comfortable, staging area
• Appreciators of fine art 
• Anyone who like tranquility and nature