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Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River

Photo gallery for Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River

Interior detail
Big Chair Photo Op!!!!!!
Miscellaneous
Beach
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Firepit
  • Dock

Explore the area

View in a map
Nanaimo, BC
  • Place, Vancouver Island University
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Duke Point Ferry Terminal
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Place, Departure Bay Ferry Terminal
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Number of living rooms
Garden

About this property

Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River

Dragonfly Retreat is located in the Nanaimo River area, just minutes from Nanaimo and Ladysmith. The setting offers a quiet rural atmosphere surrounded by nature, with nearby access to hiking and biking trails and a shared lake enjoyed by a small number of neighbouring homes. This is a hosted accommodation within our primary residence on a multi-level property.

Guests enjoy a bright and comfortable guest space within the lower level of our home, featuring high ceilings and large windows with views of the lake. A landscaped pathway through the backyard leads past a waterfall and pond to a sandy beach area and dock. Guests are welcome to relax by the water, enjoy the natural surroundings, or take part in seasonal lake activities including a pedal boat, paddleboard, canoe, and swimming. Life jackets are available for guest use.

Outdoor areas include multiple seating spaces around the property, allowing guests to enjoy both sun and shade throughout the day. A wood-burning fire pit is available for guest use, subject to local fire regulations. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for walking, photography, and quiet outdoor enjoyment.

Within the guest space, there is a comfortable seating area with a fireplace and a convertible couch. A desk area with USB charging ports is also available for guest convenience. Board games and cards are provided for leisure.

The bedroom area includes hypoallergenic pillows, a Canadian down duvet, and cotton bedding. Bedside lighting includes USB charging ports, and extra blankets and pillows are available if needed. Sleeping arrangements are best suited for two adults and two children using existing bedding configurations.

The bathroom includes a walk-in shower with multiple features, including massaging jets, a handheld wand, and a rain showerhead. Towels, basic toiletries, and a hair dryer are provided for guest use.

Small dogs may be considered with prior approval, subject to certain conditions.

Hosted accommodation with a light continental breakfast offering provided.

We look forward to welcoming you to Dragonfly Retreat.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
No children under 12 alone at lake/watercraft
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Inquire prior to booking. No unattended pets.
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Please use a safe butt container.

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Pets can not be left unattended for long periods of time. One vehicle per visit, limited parking spaces available.

Important information

You need to know

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

About the area

Arrowsmith-Benson

Located in Arrowsmith-Benson, this apartment is on the waterfront. Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda. The OV Arts Centre and Nanaimo Aquatic Centre are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more B&B in Arrowsmith-BensonOpens in a new window
Map
Nanaimo, BC

What's nearby

  • Vancouver Island University - 15 min drive - 15.9 km
  • Duke Point Ferry Terminal - 18 min drive - 20.1 km
  • Departure Bay Beach - 22 min drive - 25.1 km
  • Departure Bay Ferry Terminal - 22 min drive - 17.7 km
  • Woodgrove Shopping Centre - 23 min drive - 29.7 km

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (YCD) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sip Pub - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪coco cafe - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Baby Salsa Mexican Restaurant - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River?

As of 13 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River on 28 Apr, 2026 start from S$188, 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 at Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite located?

Situated on the waterfront, this apartment building is within 9 miles (15 km) of WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo, WildPlay Nanaimo and The OV Arts Centre. Casino Nanaimo and Nanaimo Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 68 out of 69 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 69 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 69 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 69 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 69 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dianna B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about the place was perfect! No detail was missed! We haven’t stopped talking about it to anyone who will listen to us!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Feb, 2026
Thank you for the wonderful comments and for letting others know about your visit !!! We are glad you had a wonderful time. Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rowan V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a lovely, quiet place to rest and relax!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marietta H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
The fireplace fan was too noisy to use so left it on the flame feature only. The house was well heated anyway so didn't really need it. Everything was very tastefully done. We would definitely recommend you to our friends
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2026
Thank you for letting us know about the fireplace fan. We will look into that immediately so that it does not disturb other guests. It was a pleasure having you stay with us. Jodi
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had a wonderful stay at Dragon Fly retreat. The place was clean, the area was beautiful and Jodi and Randy were excellent hosts! It was also very nice to have a place that would welcome our puppy to be with us. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John V.

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

Very peaceful getaway haven - in a beautiful setting

Very comfortable and high quality suite - and the setting and grounds are very hard to beat
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov, 2024
Thank you for the kind words John and family! Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie D.

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

Great stay

Great spot for a family getaway. Jodi and her partner were easy to communicate with and very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept, 2024
Thank you for your review. It was great to host you and your family. We hope to see you again! Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

j d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dragon Fly retreat is a beautiful place on a small, quiet, non motorized lake; perfect to relax and unwind. The hosts thought of everything, beach towels, paddle boards, and ample cooking equipment. We really enjoyed our stay and spent most of our time lounging on the deck chairs on the dock. Life is good!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve and Karen P.

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

Lovely stay near Nanaimo

We thoroughly enjoyed our three day stay. Setting is beautiful , and enjoyed swimming and paddling in the lake.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept, 2022
Thank you so much for taking a moment to write a review. It was a pleasure to meet you both. Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ken F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Place of Peace. We hope to go back!Our family had an amazing time at the Dragon Fly Retreat. It was the perfect place for our family to relax, swim, and head out for day trips around the island. Working with Jodi was easy. We totally recommend this place.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jodi M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property, so peaceful. We had a relaxing stay. We had the lake all to ourselves along with the Bobs (the three beavers) and otters. Jodi and Randy were super accommodating. My 9 year old loved hunting for frogs.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Sept, 2025
Thank you for sharing your review !!! Glad the frogs and the Bobs were a hit!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second time staying here and it was another amazing week’s stay. We enjoyed the lake for swimming, paddle boarding, and relaxing on the dock. Owners very friendly and helpful. Close car drive to Ocean and hiking. Suite very clean and well stocked kitchen. Has its own deck over looking the lake. Great place for morning coffee. Thanks for another great stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Sept, 2025
Thank you so much!!! It was great to see you all again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

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

Get away

Just what we needed a lovely place to relax!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 May, 2025
Thank you so much!! Safe travels.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly W.

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

Great stay!

We had a great stay. Jodi was very communicative and even gave us some recommendations for our travels. The suite was clean and comfortable for two of us and our dog. The lake and view are great too!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara H.

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

Highly recommend.

This was a lovely and spectacular place for us. Quiet, clean, beautiful setting. Jodi and Randy were welcoming, friendly, and so very helpful. Loved the lake and especially the nesting Pied-Billed Grebes. Would love to return if we find ourselves in the area again.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 May, 2025
Thank you so much! You are both welcome to come and stay whenever you like! Great chatting with you both.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tamara F.

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

Peaceful

Super quiet, peaceful and relaxing just what we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2024
Thank you very much, Tamara, We are glad that you enjoyed your time here and got the rest that you were looking for we enjoyed meeting you both. Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela S.

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

Amazing

A beautifully settled home away from home! Was so relaxing and softly decorated. Would 100% stay here over and over again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Aug, 2022
Thank you Angela!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa F.

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

Get-away

Beautiful location for a mini-vacation
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept, 2021
Thank you Lisa, safe travels and perhaps we will see you again one day. Jodi and Randy.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peggy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This property is absolutely gorgeous. And the property owners are super nice and easy to talk to. We loved looking out over the lake. There are all kinds of things to do at the lake and the hosts even provide fun water crafts and chairs. Wouldn't hesitate to stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

john K.

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

Best ever

Stayed 7 nites, everything first class , great view and private property grounds , everything that you would want is supplied, Faye John and Molly
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Feb, 2025
Thank you so much!!! It was very nice to meet you both. Safe travels and we hope to see you again. Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tammy N.

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

Anniversary trip

We very much enjoyed our stay at the Dragon Fly Retreat The grounds are absolutely beautiful and very private The suite was beautiful and our view from our deck overlooking the lake and yard was stunning.. So quiet and peaceful and a perfect place to spend our 10th wedding anniversary..
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shreyas K.

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

Resort style stay

We have a fab two nights stay. We had much more than expected. We look forward to coming back next summer
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct, 2021
Thank you staying with us and thank you for the lovely note. We are glad you enjoyed your visit. If we can do anything special when you come to stay next please let us know. Safe travels Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Felipe C.

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

Amazing place

We loved the place. Excellent for a getaway. The property is cozy, clean, and organized and has everything you need. The lake right behind the house is terrific. Jodi is thoughtful and kind. We will be staying again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept, 2024
Thank you so much!!! Looking forward to your future stays! Jodi and Randy
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa P.

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

All the comforts

The suite is well planned and stylish. There are several spots to sit and enjoy the view of Myles Lake. We had a very restful and comfortable stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May, 2022
Thank you Lisa for the kind comments. We are glad you enjoyed your visit. It was a pleasure to meet you both and your puppies. Hope to see you again in the future.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tanya H.

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

Weekend summer getaway

This property is beautiful. The accommodations are immaculate and the grounds are landscaped in a way that feels like a tiny resort. They have provided everything you need for a great summer trip.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug, 2022
Thank you Tanya!!! Glad you enjoyed the visit and Quincy enjoyed his time here as well. Jodi and Randy.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doug L.

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

Dragonfly Retreat

This is a fantastic property to stay at and it is wonderfully quiet and secluded from everyday life. I can not think of a better property we could have picked and Jan and Randy the hosts were wonderful to deal with. We will definately be back in the future to get some rest and relaxation.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

About the host

Hosted by Jodi Mahoney

Host profile image

What makes this property unique

The dock and shaded gazebo are available for guest use. There is also a small sandy area suitable for young children to play. Water toys and floaties are provided for children, along with life jackets in three sizes.

There are several seating areas around the lake and nearby shoreline, allowing guests to enjoy both sunny and shaded spots throughout the day.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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