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Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer

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A two-story house with a front porch, a garage, and a balcony.
A two-story house with a front door, a small porch, and a visible kitchen area.
A living room with a flat-screen TV, a bookshelf with books, a potted plant, and a door leading to another room.
A neatly made bed with a white bedspread and pillows, two bedside lamps, a small potted plant, and a framed picture on the nightstand.
A kitchen with white cabinets, a stove, and a dishwasher.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Beach equipment
    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Vancouver Island University
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
Nanaimo, BC
  • Place, Vancouver Island University
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, Nanaimo Aquatic Centre
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Place, Old City Quarter
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome)
    ‪8 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Twin Beds

1 bathroom

Main Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer

Poet's Retreat is an immaculate, fully updated, 2 bedroom oasis. It is fully furnished and supplied. All of this in an incredibly central location and beautiful neighbourhood - easy access to both highways, less than a 5-minute drive to restaurants and shops of the Old City Quarter, downtown, Nanaimo Harbourfront, VIU. The Aquatic and Ice Centres are under a 10-minute walk away.

As you step into the suite, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, with tasteful decor and natural light. The open living area is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city, featuring comfortable seating and a flat-screen smart TV with Netflix and Amazon Prime for your entertainment.

The fully equipped kitchen boasts all the appliances and essentials you need to whip up delicious meals during your stay. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a home-cooked meal, you'll find everything you need right at your fingertips.

Both bedrooms are thoughtfully furnished with plush bedding and ample storage space to ensure a restful night's sleep. The serene ambiance of the garden outside adds to the tranquility of the space, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Convenience is key, and Poet's Retreat comes equipped with laundry facilities, allowing you to keep your wardrobe fresh and clean throughout your stay. Additionally, guests have access to complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected during your visit.

Located in a vibrant neighborhood, Hawthorne Heights you'll find parks, VIU, and attractions just steps away from your doorstep.

There's something for everyone to enjoy! For cyclists, we are located right on the Trans Canada Trail, and there is secure bike storage on site.

Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, Poet's Retreat provides the perfect home away from home for your central Vancouver Island stay. We look forward to welcoming you!

Poet’s Retreat comfortably sleeps up to four guests. Base rate covers two adults; $25/night per extra adult.

Earlier check-in or later check-out is possible, depending on our bookings. Feel free to ask!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
Stair-gate, crib, booster, toys. park nearby.
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Events

No events allowed
STRICTLY NO OUTSIDE GUESTS AT ANY TIME.
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Quiet hours from 10PM to 8AM out of respect for neighbours.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 5033016, H451586630
Property # 9709664ha
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: STRICTLY NO OUTSIDE GUESTS AT ANY TIME.
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

About the neighborhood

Nanaimo

Located in Nanaimo, this vacation home is in the city center and on a river. Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda. Traveling with kids? Consider Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and The Labyrinth. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and horse riding.
View more Vacation Homes in NanaimoOpens in a new window
Map
Nanaimo, BC

What's nearby

  • Buttertubs Marsh Park - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Vancouver Island University - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Nanaimo Aquatic Centre - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Maffeo Sutton Park - 7 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Old City Quarter - 8 min drive - 2.3 km

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Off The Hook - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Drip Coffee | Social - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Danpung Momiji - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer?

As of Sep 29, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer on May 1, 2027 start from $190, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Restful and Serene ♦ Quiet Neighborhood ♦ Washer/Dryer located?

This family-friendly Nanaimo vacation home is located by the sea, within a 15-minute walk of Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, Bowen Park, and Vancouver Island University. Departure Bay Ferry Terminal is 2.4 mi (3.9 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 48 out of 49 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 49 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 49 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 49 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 49 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fabulous stay- definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 24, 2026
Thanks so much! We’d love to welcome you back on your next visit to Vancouver Island!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fantastic stay. Great location. Property was immaculate with everything you could need. Highly recommend this property.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 24, 2026
Thanks so much for the wonderful review! We’re so happy you had a great stay and really appreciate the recommendation. Hope to host you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed at the Poet’s Retreat while in Nanaimo for a family wedding. It was exactly as described and served as the perfect home base for my wife and I and our two adult sons, with easy access to the highway and just a short drive to the Nanaimo harbour area.Howard and Jennifer made the check in and check out processes seamless and were very responsive when we reached out during our stay. Highly recommended!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Put this on the list.... A hidden gem, clean quiet and spacious
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 24, 2026
Thanks so much! We really appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you back sometime soon!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
All good, comfortable beds. Quiet neighborhood.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 6, 2026
Thank you, Diane! It was such a pleasure welcoming you back to Poet's Retreat. We're so glad you had another comfortable stay, and we truly appreciate you choosing to stay with us again. We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, great hosts and great location, and everything as advertised.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 6, 2026
Thank you, Nicole! It was a pleasure hosting you, and we're so happy you chose to stay with us. We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back again in the future.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Retreat

We had an amazing stay here. Location was very convenient & the property was beautiful, clean & had all the amenities we could possibly have needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thanks for your review Lauren! So glad you found the location to be great and that Poet's Retreat had everything you could have needed during your stay. Come back any time!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Space

This was a lovely place to stay. Neighborhood was nice and quiet. And perfect location that’s close to everything
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on May 20, 2025
Thanks so much, Brendan! We're really glad you and your group enjoyed the peace and quiet and that the location worked out so well for your time here on Vancouver Island. You’re welcome back anytime!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nanaimo getaway (Poet's Retreat)

It was an awesome vacation,we enjoyed our stay. It was so clean and organized and a friendly neighboring place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Hi Emily - It's great to hear you had such a great vacation and loved the suite!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

Perfect for us.... clean everything we could possibly need and loved it
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 11, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words. We're thrilled that your stay felt just right and that you left with such a positive impression. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent stay!

Clean and spacious, with attention to detail.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thanks for the review Brandy! I'm glad your family had a great time in Nanaimo! Come back anytime - your girls know where the toys are kept now;-)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The cleanest, most organized property we’ve ever stayed at

Was an awesome stay! We highly recommend this property. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 12, 2021
Love hearing that Poet's Retreat was the cleanest property you've ever stayed at. We work hard to ensure the suite is immaculate - we want our guests to feel relaxed and comfortable the moment they step foot in the door. Come back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

AMAZING STAY!

We stayed at Poet's Retreat for 3 nights for work and it was perfect. It felt like a 5 star hotel! The home is bright, beautifully decorated, and immaculate.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thank you so much Thomas! We strive to make the space as comfortable as possible for all of our guests. So glad you enjoyed it!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property was excellent. Check in was easy, the unit was large and well stocked. We found the owners easy to connect with. The booklet/manual was full of useful information. Clean and quiet, it suited our needs very well. I highly recommended this unit.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 6, 2026
Thank you so much, Katharine! It was a pleasure hosting you, and we're delighted you chose Poet's Retreat for your visit. We truly appreciate your recommendation and your thoughtful review. Wishing you all the best, and we'd be happy to welcome you back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

fantastic

wonderful home fully appointed. best place I have ever stayed!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Love hearing that Poet's Retreat was the best place you've stayed and that you found it to have everything you and your family needed. Thanks Stephanie!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place

Upstairs apartment was spotless and well decorated, kitchen was generously filled with dishes, spices and appliances, and check in was painless. Owners were a dream to deal with.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 15, 2021
Glad to hear you found everything you might have needed! We ensure check-in is super easy - no one wants to deal with head-aches on arrival. You should be able to put your feet up and relax from the very beginning. Come back anytime you need a vacation!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow!

Our family of 4 stayed here for the weekend and had an amazing time. The suite is incredibly clean, comfortable and well appointed. We wouldn’t hesitate to stay again, and would totally recommend to anyone!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on May 11, 2021
Thanks Melissa! So great to hear you and your family enjoyed yourselves! We'd love to have you back any time.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Impeccable and well-equipped!

Lovely, modern, well-equipped, clean home in a safe, pretty neighborhood. The hosts are professional and warm, and very accommodating. The 6 minute drive to the waterfront and Port Theatre worked perfectly for us! Highly recommend this accommodation!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on May 13, 2025
Thank you so much, Karen! We’re so glad the location and setup worked well for your visit. We truly appreciated how thoughtful and kind you were throughout. It was a pleasure hosting you both, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Poet's Retreat

We had such a relaxing stay at Poet's Retreat. It is comfortably furnished, beautifully decorated, and located in a quiet neighborhood. From the delicious Nanaimo Bars to the soft bathrobes, Lindsay makes you feel right at home. We would love to stay here again when we're on the Island.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
Thanks David! I love hearing that you had a relaxing stay - this is exactly what we try to provide for each of our guests. We'd be more than happy to have you and your family back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a wonderful place to stay! Jennifer and Howard were excellent hosts. We had a safe spot to keep our bikes, a great grill to use and easy parking in front of the house. Howard made sure we each had a Nanaimo bar in the frig waiting for us. What a special touch! Lots of towels and washer and dryer with soap provided. We highly recommend this stay!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 6, 2026
Thank you so much, Gillian! It was such a pleasure hosting you, and we truly enjoyed having you as our guest. We hope you had a wonderful time exploring Vancouver Island and made many great memories along the way. Wishing you all the best, and we hope to welcome you back again someday!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As advertised

Nice touches with labels to easily find things. Clear & concise instructions. Would definitely book again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 11, 2025
Hi Lisa, It was a real pleasure hosting your family! We're so glad the stay felt smooth and comfortable. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience we’d be thrilled to welcome you anytime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Poet's Retreat

Amazing house, great location and Lindsay was great in making sure our visit was great. Thanks so much.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2020
So glad you enjoyed yourselves and the suite. We'd be happy to host you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect！

Comfortable and convenient for all your needs.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on May 20, 2025
Thanks so much, Ana! We're happy to hear the suite had everything you needed and that you felt comfortable during your stay. You’re welcome back anytime!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice apartment with good kitchen and well equipped. Parking in front of the house. Quiet neighborhood. Easy access to central Nanaimo 5 minutes by car or 30 minutes walking. The hosts have been very kind and helpful!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 1, 2025
Thank you, Ferdinand! It was a pleasure hosting you and your family. We're so glad you enjoyed the suite and found the location convenient and peaceful. Wishing you all the best, and we’d be delighted to welcome you again if your travels bring you back to Vancouver Island.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet place to stay in Nanaimo

This unit is in a quiet residential neighborhood, close to a bird and turtle conservation area and a lake with a nice trail for walking. The hosts are very responsive and friendly. For my family of 3, it was a great fit. We had breakfast in the unit, were close enough to Victoria and the beaches and hiking areas further north. We would stay again next time we’re on Vancouver Island!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 13, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re so glad the suite was a good fit for your family and that you enjoyed our neighborhood and nearby trails. We’d love to welcome you back next time you're on the Island!

About the host

Hosted by Howard Anderson

Host profile image
After more than 24 years in the Vancouver area, we’ve happily settled into island life. When we’re not out walking, paddling, playing volleyball and racquet sports, or exploring new corners of Vancouver Island, you’ll probably find us relaxing in the garden or enjoying a good meal with family and friends.

We truly love Nanaimo and all it has to offer, and we’re excited to share some of our favorite places with you. We’ve put a lot of care into making Poet’s Retreat a cozy and welcoming space - we hope it adds something special to your time here. Enjoy your stay!

Why they chose this property

This neighbourhood is quaint and very quiet with beautiful Mount Benson views, close to Vancouver Island University, the Aquatic Center, and the Ice Center and surrounded by parklands. What's not to love? But if the great location isn't enough, Poet's Retreat has been designed with your comfort in mind. From the moment you walk in the door, you will notice the relaxing and soothing vibe of this suite and will love the beautiful furnishings and comfortable beds. It all adds up to a great and memorable vacation that you'll wish didn't have to end.

What makes this property unique

Poet’s Retreat stands out for its warm, homey feel and thoughtful touches that make traveling easy for everyone, including families. The suite is fully private and self-contained with its own entrance, kitchen, laundry, and peaceful vibe, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.

We’ve stocked the space with kid-friendly extras like books, games, children’s dishware, a pack-and-play, and a high chair to make little ones feel just as welcome as the adults.

Tucked in a quiet neighbourhood near nature trails, lakes, and parks, but still just minutes from downtown Nanaimo, VIU, and the ferries, it’s a great launch pad for your Vancouver Island adventure. And since we live on-site, we’re happy to offer local tips or help out, while giving you space to enjoy your stay.

Languages:

English, French, Italian, Spanish
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