We visited Errington's for one night only, as part of the Agawa Canyon Train Tour package. We only wish that we could have stayed for longer.
When our train dropped us off, we were greeted by Al the owner and taken via pontoon boat across Lake Wabatongushi to the resort island. As the train was late, we were shown our suites (in a lodge next to the main building, rather than the cabins in which people stay when they visit Errington's for longer periods) and quickly freshened up before dinner.
The main lodge was very impressive, built by Al himself, and pretty much a work of art, I reckon. We were warmly welcomed and sat down to an excellent dinner: salad with luscious homegrown tomatoes, followed by perfectly cooked New York striploin steak with jacket potato and veg. Since it was growing darker earlier by this late in the season (we were the last guests before the resort closed for the winter), we were taken out on our evening pontoon boat trip before dessert.
Unfortunately, despite Vern the boatman's best efforts, we didn't manage to see any wildlife on that particular occasion. Still, the boat ride was enjoyable in itself. Upon our return, we were served a particularly delicious apple pie (made by the talented Vern himself!) and tea or coffee.
Our suite was relatively small, but much better than I'd expected for a stay out in the wilderness. It was certainly very cosy and comfortable, and we had a good night's sleep - that is, until we deliberately woke up at 5am and went outside to see if we could see the Northern Lights. Apparently, Vern had seen a good showing of them at around 5.30 on the morning of our arrival, but the moon was still very bright and it was also misty when we tried to see them, so we were unsuccessful. I'm told that they can sometimes be seen even during the summer, though. Ah well, at least that gives us a good excuse to return for another try! All the same, it was a lovely experience to stand outside with the peace and calm of the wilderness around us in the wee hours of the morning.
An excellent breakfast was served in the main lodge, before we were taken out once more for another pontoon boat ride. This time, we were luckier and saw a bald eagle and its nest.
Al, Doris and all of the staff at Errington's made even our very short stay a wonderful and very memorable one. They could not have been more helpful or kinder. It was also a joy to meet Nikita and shy Sable, their rescue dogs.
It was with sadness that we boarded the pontoon boat for our ride across the lake to catch the train back to Soo (with a packed lunchbox provided to sustain us on the journey). We hope to return and stay for longer next time in one of the cabins.
If you love Nature and good, friendly people, then I think you'll feel right at home at Errington's.
- Erringtons Wilderness Island Hotel
