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Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River

Enjoy the free WiFi at this Arrowsmith-Benson B&B

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

A covered outdoor area with a wooden table and chairs, a grill, and a view of a lake surrounded by trees.
Beach nearby, sun loungers, beach towels
Smart TV, fireplace, books
A serene lakeside setting with a wooden deck, seating, and a bird sculpture.
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
Nanaimo, BC
  • Place, WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, WildPlay Nanaimo
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Vancouver Island University
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Arrowsmith-Benson

On lake.Within 6 miles (10 km) of this B&B, you'll find WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo and WildPlay Nanaimo. Also within 9 miles (15 km) are Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and The OV Arts Centre.
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What's nearby

  • WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo - 8 min drive - 8.6 km
  • WildPlay Nanaimo - 9 min drive - 9.2 km
  • Vancouver Island University - 13 min drive - 15.0 km
  • Nanaimo Museum - 15 min drive - 13.0 km
  • Bastion - 16 min drive - 13.3 km

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (YCD) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Sip Pub - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Baby Salsa Mexican Restaurant - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬11 min drive

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.
Front of property
Diplomat Motel
Nanaimo
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
3.6 out of 5, Good, 524 reviews
The price is CA $128
CA $148 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Diplomat Motel

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Internet access

Things to do

  • Books
  • Games
  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 4 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Well-lit path to entrance

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Composting
  • Desk
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Living room
  • Recycling

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Guests can access their accommodation through a private entrance
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Pets can not be left unattended for long periods of time. One vehicle per visit, limited parking spaces available.

Access methods

Private entrance

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 20 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Inquire prior to booking. No unattended pets.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: No children under 12 alone at lake/watercraft

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

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

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property
Dragon Fly Retreat Lakeside Suite Apartment
Dragon Fly Retreat Lakeside Suite Arrowsmith-Benson
Dragon Fly Retreat Lakeside Suite Apartment Arrowsmith-Benson
Lakeside one bedroom suite with beach front small water crafts

Frequently asked questions

How close is Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River to the airport?

This bed & breakfast is 6.1 mi (12-min drive) away from the Nanaimo, BC (YCD) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this bed & breakfast.

How close is Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River to the beach?

This bed & breakfast is 14 mi (29-min drive) from Departure Bay Beach.

Does Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River offer free breakfast?

This bed & breakfast does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River?

No, there is no casino at this bed & breakfast, but Casino Nanaimo (15-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River?

Free parking is not available at this bed & breakfast.

Does Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River have a pool?

This bed & breakfast does not have a pool.

Does Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this bed & breakfast.

How close is Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River to downtown Arrowsmith-Benson?

This bed & breakfast is 14.6 mi away from Arrowsmith-Benson.

Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 71 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

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

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
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

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
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
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
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
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

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

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

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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

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
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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
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
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

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