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Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River

Arrowsmith-Benson apartment with kitchen

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

Outdoor dining
Property grounds
Smart TV, fireplace, books
Interior
Beach nearby, sun loungers, beach towels

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • 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 apartment, you'll find WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo and WildPlay Nanaimo. Also within 9 miles (15 km) are The OV Arts Centre and Casino Nanaimo.
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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

  • ‪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

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.

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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
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 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

Dragonfly Retreat – Scenic Lakeside Guest Accommodation Near Nanaimo River Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

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

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Marietta H.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Dianna B.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

j d.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Rowan V.

Liked: Cleanliness
What a lovely, quiet place to rest and relax!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jodi M.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Richard G.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Angela C.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Ken F., Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Sara H.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Get away

Just what we needed a lovely place to relax!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

john K., MAPLE CREEK

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Peggy

Travelled with pets, Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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

10/10 Excellent

John V.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Cindy P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Staying here was a treat

If you love peace, tranquility, and privacy, look no further. The grounds and lake are stunningly beautiful, even in the fall. Suite is tastefully furnished, well-equipped, and with many thoughtful extras you don't typically find in a vacation rental. Jodi and Randy are exceptionally wonderful hosts who go out of their way to make sure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Stayed 16 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Felipe C.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Jamie D.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Han N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent Retreat!

We had the most excellent stay at Jodi and Randy's place! Our kids absolutely LOVED spending time out on the dock looking for frogs and fishes. There are many activities that the owners allow guests to use - canoe, paddle boat, life jackets, etc. We absolutely love that it was a private lake so we have plenty of privacy! The guestsuite is sparking clean. All the cooking amenities were available for a nice bbq grill in the patio. Towels and toiletries were available and very clean. We felt like we were staying at a resort! Randy greeted us when we arrived and Jodi was our main contact. They were very prompt to all our inquiries and super friendly! They definitely treat you like family! Overall, this was our favorite place at Vancouver Island. It's close enough to the ferries and within driving distance to stores. I would highly recommend Jodi and Randy's place for those looking for a private resort style lodging. Thanks Jodi and Randy for an amazing stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Naomi M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Ode to an oasis!

This perfect Oasis by a small private spring fed lake was heaven. We had such a wonderful relaxing time. The place was modern and clean. We ate our meals outside on the deck overlooking the beautiful grounds and lake. Jodi and Randy are lovely hosts and they have thought of everything to make your stay stress free. You can hang out at their private dock and swim, float and paddle around on a board, or canoe. If you are looking to de-stress or just to get away I would highly recommend a stay at the aptly named Dragonfly resort.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tamara F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful

Super quiet, peaceful and relaxing just what we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matt R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Dragon Fly

Jodi and Randy offer a beautifully landscaped homesite on Myles Lake. With a small number of lakeside homes on this small lake, it can be a relaxing and peaceful place to spend time. The apartment is well-outfitted for a wonderful stay and you'll find most amenities available. Squeaky clean. It was quick and easy to get questions answered. One of us primarily wanted to swim, so the dock and chairs were well used and there are a number of options for water play available. Located far enough to be quiet and peaceful, Nanaimo is still close enough to reach for supplies or a night out.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michele N., Calgary

Liked: Cleanliness

You can never go wrong here!

We always enjoy staying here. Very peaceful and relaxing. We had a small hiccup unlocking the door but Jodi got up to help us even though we arrived at 3 am! Much appreciated after a long flight delay. Everything we needed and more was available. We will be back. :-)
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jean

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The beautifully landscaped setting was pastoral, offering several areas to sit and enjoy the fountains, foliage and lake. The tastefully appointed suite had modern appliances and extras such as a fireplace and high end shower. There was even a cupboard with items for our dog, such as bowls and towels. Jodi, the host was very approachable and communicated promptly.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Doug L.

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Maria T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely and cozy

I had a very pleasant stay at Jodi’s beautiful dragonfly apartment. It’s full of details that make you feel even better after you get the garden and the lake view first impression (which is great!) Thank you Jodi for sharing a lovely/cozy space !
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tammy N., Chilliwack BC ,Canada

Liked: Cleanliness

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