Vacation Homes

Nov26

Nestled off the southwestern coast of British Columbia, Vancouver Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, and one of its most breathtaking experiences is whale watching. With its diverse marine ecosystem, the island offers the chance to encounter a variety of whale species in their natural habitat. Let’s embark on a virtual marine safari to explore the magnificent whales that call the waters around Vancouver Island home.

1. Orcas (Killer Whales):
– These iconic black and white creatures are the stars of the show in these waters.
– The southern resident orcas are known for their unique family groups, each with distinct dialects.
– Witnessing orcas breach the surface or work together in hunting pods is a sight to behold.

2. Humpback Whales:
– Humpbacks are celebrated for their acrobatics, including jaw-dropping breaches.
– Their intricate songs, believed to be a form of communication, add to the wonder of encountering them.

3. Gray Whales:
– Catch a glimpse of gray whales during their annual migration, as they travel from their breeding grounds in Mexico to their Arctic feeding grounds.
– These gentle giants are recognized by their mottled, barnacle-covered skin.

4. Minke Whales:
– Minke whales are the smallest baleen whales and are often seen in the region.
– Their elusive nature adds an element of surprise to any whale-watching tour.

5. Pacific White-Sided Dolphins:
– While not a whale, these playful dolphins are frequent companions during whale-watching trips.
– Their striking black-and-white markings and acrobatic displays make for entertaining sightings.

6. Fin Whales:
– As the second-largest whale species globally, fin whales are known for their sleek appearance and streamlined bodies.
– Although they are not the most common sighting, their presence is always a thrill.

7. Blue Whales:
– The largest animal on the planet, the blue whale is a rare but awe-inspiring sight in the region.
– Their sheer size and the breathtaking blue-gray coloration of their skin leave a lasting impression.

Vancouver Island’s marine environment provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and witness the majesty of these magnificent whales. Whale-watching tours offer not only the chance to observe these creatures up close but also promote the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. As you plan your next adventure, consider embarking on a whale-watching excursion around Vancouver Island, where every glimpse of these gentle giants is a testament to the beauty of our natural world.

Oct18

As the leaves transform and the air takes on a crisp edge, there’s an undeniable charm in snuggling up with a comforting autumnal beverage. Be it the inviting allure of a spiced latte or the soothing essence of a hot apple cider, we’re here to inspire your journey through heartwarming fall concoctions.

1. Spiced Pumpkin Latte:

– Embodying the essence of fall, this quintessential spiced pumpkin latte is a must-try. Learn to craft this seasonal favorite in the comfort of your home, featuring velvety milk, aromatic spices, and an optional, lavish topping of whipped cream.

– Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or a dairy-free alternative)
– 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– Whipped cream (optional)

– Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat. Whisk until well combined.
2. Pour the spiced milk mixture into a mug.
3. Add the brewed coffee or espresso to the mug and stir.
4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired.

2. Homemade Apple Cider:

– Experience the simple joys of preparing your very own apple cider using freshly picked apples.

– Ingredients:
– 10-12 apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 4-6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

– Instructions:
1. Wash and chop the apples (no need to peel or core them).
2. Place the apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the fruit.
3. Simmer the mixture on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Use a potato masher to crush the softened fruit in the pot.
5. Strain the cider into another pot or bowl, pressing on the solids to extract all the juice.
6. Stir in brown sugar while the cider is still warm.
7. Serve the homemade apple cider hot or cold.

3. Chai Tea Latte:

– The blend of spices in a chai tea latte makes it an autumn staple. Dive into a creamy homemade version that promises warmth and comfort.

– Ingredients:
– 2 chai tea bags
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ground cinnamon (optional)

– Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the water and milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
2. Add the chai tea bags and let them steep for about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the tea bags, then stir in honey and vanilla.
4. Pour the chai latte into a mug and sprinkle with ground cinnamon if desired.

4. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate:

– Immerse yourself in the warmth of a rich, cinnamon-infused hot chocolate—a perfect companion for those evenings by the fire.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups milk (whole milk for creamier hot chocolate)
– 2 ounces (about 1/4 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
– Whipped cream, marshmallows, and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the milk, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk continuously until the chocolate chips and cocoa powder have fully dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Once the mixture is hot and well combined, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed.

5. Pour the cinnamon hot chocolate into mugs.

6. If desired, top each mug with a dollop of whipped cream, marshmallows, and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

7. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy Cinnamon Hot Chocolate!

5. Mulled Wine:

– Embark on an autumnal journey for your taste buds with a steaming cup of mulled wine. Learn how to infuse red wine with a harmonious blend of spices and citrus for a spicy, warming treat—ideal for festive gatherings.

6. Spiked Hot Apple Cider:

– For those seeking an extra touch of warmth, we’ve given a twist to traditional apple cider. By adding a splash of your preferred spirit, you can create a delightful adult version perfect for those brisk evenings.

7. Maple Pecan Latte:

– Maple and pecan—a harmonious autumnal pairing. This latte combines these delightful flavors with a caffeine kick for a drink that will have you coming back for more.

8. Herbal Teas for Fall:

– If caffeine isn’t your cup of tea, we have a selection of herbal teas that are tailor-made for sipping on a crisp autumn afternoon.

Fall is a season of vibrant colors and even more vibrant flavours. With our guide, you can embark on a journey of taste, comfort, and snug moments, all within the confines of your own home. Be it the allure of pumpkin, apple, or the spices of chai, there’s a warm fall drink to suit every taste. So, grab your favourite mug, gather your ingredients, and let your autumn sipping adventure commences. Here’s to the simple joys of fall!

Aug23

Vancouver Island is a large island located in the southwestern part of British Columbia, Canada. It is separated from the mainland of British Columbia by the Strait of Georgia to the east and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the south. The island is known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities.

Key features of Vancouver Island include:

  1. Natural Beauty: The island is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and majestic mountains. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and whale watching.
  2. Victoria: The capital city of British Columbia, Victoria, is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It is known for its British colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and a charming waterfront. The famous Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum are popular attractions in Victoria.
  3. Tofino and Ucluelet: These coastal communities on the western side of Vancouver Island are known for their stunning beaches, surfing opportunities, and access to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The area is also famous for its storm watching during the winter months.
  4. Nanaimo: A city located on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is known for its harbor, waterfront walkways, and the Nanaimo Bar (a popular Canadian dessert).
  5. Wildlife: The island is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. The island’s proximity to the ocean and its varied ecosystems contribute to its diverse animal and plant life.
  6. Outdoor Activities: Vancouver Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park (the oldest provincial park in British Columbia), fishing in its numerous lakes and rivers, and exploring the many trails and parks.
  7. Island Communities: Beyond the larger cities, Vancouver Island is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and attractions.

Overall, Vancouver Island is a popular destination for both residents and tourists alike, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. It’s a place where you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature and the vibrancy of local communities.

Jan25

Nothing is better then the smell of a freshly brewed coffee, birds chirping, bacon sizzling and family laughter dancing through the house. During your stay with us we want you to be as comfortable as possible, skip the meal planning we have already done that for you. Giving you extra time to enjoy that coffee and time with your loved ones.

Clementine Sunshine Smoothie

This deliciously fresh, citrus smoothie will kick start your day and energize you for the adventures to come around the beautiful land surrounding La Casa!

  • 4 clementines, preferably chilled
  • ½ cup ice
  • ¼ cup yogurt or almond milk (plain or vanilla flavors work)
  • Tiny dash sea salt

Savoury Breakfast Bowl

Bring your favourite breakfast bowl from the cafe of your dreams to reality with this delicious recipe.

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2 cups spinach
  • ½ cup halved cherry or grape tomatoes
  • ¼ avocado, sliced
  • ½ cup Everything Bagel Potatoes
  • 1 to 2 eggs (fried, scrambled, soft boiled, whatever your preference)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sprinkle of feta cheese or nutritional yeast, optional
  • Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or basil, if desired
  • Hot sauce or salsa, optional

Baked Sweet Potato Egg Cups

  • Olive oil spray
  • 2 1/2 cups peeled and grated, on large holes sweet potatoes (about 1 8-ounce potato)
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste,
  • 1 ounce finely grated Pecorino cheese, 2 teaspoons reserved
  • 6 large eggs

Apple Dutch Baby

  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • 6 tablespoons salted butterdivided
  • 1 applepeeled and thinly sliced
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamonoptional
  • powdered sugarfor serving, optional
Jan01

2023 new year, new me… maybe not but why not a few new recipes to start us off?

Charred Cabbage Skillet Gratin

This recipe has us drooling! The perfect combination of healthy vegetables with a kick of blue cheese and of course bacon.

  • 1 Savoy or green cabbage
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 1 large leek
  • 1/2 cup  walnuts
  • 1 small bunch thyme
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon (about 5 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 ounce blue cheese crumbled apox 1/2 cup

The easiest Skillet Mac

Simple yet delicious, great for those Sundays in during your stay at Breakaway Vacation Homes

  • Kosher salt 1 (11 to 14-ounce) box deluxe macaroni and cheese with cheese sauce (not cheese powder)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can chili
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Pork and Broccoli Rice Bowls

Why not add some new flavours to your 2023 pallet

  • 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, divided
  • 2 boneless pork loin cutlets (about 12 ounces total), cut into 1/2-inch-wide strips
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (about 1 small head of broccoli) or Broccolini
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Our locations come with all of the simple cooking necessities to support you during your stay. Happy Cooking!

Dec14

Nothing says holidays like over indulging in cookies, or coming home to the smell of freshly baked cookies. Treat yourself this year.. literally!

Our home away from home offer beautiful kitchens that are ready to be baked in, stop by the store for a few ingredients and you are ready to bake. At Breakaway Vacation homes the smell of your freshly baked cookies will linger throughout your stay and bring joy and happiness to your stay. Celebrate the holiday with us this year, we offer houses ranging from sizes at 3 locations including Tanglewood, Qualicum Landing, and Otter Bay – book now and relax later!

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
½ tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
¼ cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup coarse sugar or granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
1 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
¼ cup vegetable oil
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (for the coating)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup jam, raspberry or strawberry
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1-2 tablespoons almond milk
Nov21

We are counting down the days till the Winterfest Craft Fair at Qualicum Beach! 50+ Crafters, Artisans and in between will be attending the Winterfest the list of vendors can be found here. While you are checking out all of the vendors there will be 7 types stage entertainment from Highland dance, bands and live music.

Admission price is $4 per person – come and go as you please!

Not only will you be supporting local while shopping at the Winterfest Craft Fair event you will also be donating to local community groups. From the beginning  of 2012 they have raise $24,108 for local community groups!

Last year they were able to raise $3,323 which was split to the following community groups. Sourced from Winterfest Website

Bikers Against Child Abuse $447,    Oceanside Hospice $408,
Qualicum Beach Cat Resue $237,    Haven Society $1060,
Vancouver Island Compassion Dogs $427,    North Island Wildlife Rescue Ass. $408,
Ballenus Track Rebuild, $200     Building Learning Together $127.

Get to know the community while staying on the property and enjoy the local talent that Qualicum and surrounding area brings.

Where: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Street

When: November 25th – 27th

Friday 9am – 5pm

Saturday 9am – 5pm

Sunday 10am – 4pm

Oct23

Fall has fallen upon us and we found some of the most delicious fall recipes for you try during your stay with us!

Busy day ahead and no time to cook? Not to worry – toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and be prepared for the delicious smells once you arrive back at the Breakaway Properties!

You will need to pick up the following ingredients to make this delicious Slow-Cooker Curried Butternut Squash Soup!

  • Butternut Squash
  • “no-chicken” broth or vegetable broth
  • Onion
  • Curry powder
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Coconut Milk
  • Lime
  • Cilantro

Do you have a extra pumpkin laying around inspiring you to make a special dish for Halloween..? Look no further this Cheesy Pumpkin Lasagna is a must try!

You will need to pick up the following ingredients to make this delicious Cheesy Pumpkin Lasagna!

  • Butter
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Cider vinegar
  • Dried sage
  • Cans pumpkin purée
  • Maple syrup
  • Freshly grated nutmeg
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Shredded Fontina
  • Egg
  • Box no-boil lasagna noodles
  • Cooking Spray

Halloween birthday upon you? Try these festive cupcakes this year!

You will need to pick up the following ingredients to make these Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes!

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves
  • Ground ginger
  • White sugar
  • Ground allspice
  • Teaspoon salt
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Baking soda
  • Ground cinnamon

Icing:

  • Cream Cheese
  • Butter
  • Confectioners Sugar
  • Vanilla Extract
  • Ground cinnamon
Aug25

Looking for a delicious quick snack to enjoy during your vacation, but you can’t choose what? Look no further we are here to support you and all snacking ideas!

Guacamole and Chips Recipe: Depending on how much Guacamole you would like you can double or triple this recipe!

  • 2-3 Avocados
  • 1 lime or lemon
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • 1/2 cup of diced onion
  • 2-3 tomato’s diced
  • jalapeno a lot or none (if you like spice add about a tablespoon thinly cut)
  1. Peel avocados and mash to your preference of chunky or smooth
  2. Dice onion, tomato and jalapeno if you want to add a little spice
  3. Mince Garlic or use garlic press
  4. Add all ingredients to a medium bowl mix and add lime/lemon and salt to taste
  5. Match with your favourite chip and enjoy!

Pina Colada Dip – found here!

  • 1-1/4 cups cold 2% milk
  • 3/4 cup pineapple yogurt
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant coconut cream pudding mix
  • 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • Optional: Toasted unsweetened coconut flakes and maraschino cherries
  • Fresh pineapple wedges
  • Vanilla wafers
  1. In a large bowl, whisk milk, yogurt and pudding mix 2 minutes (mixture will be thick). Fold in whipped topping. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours.
  2. If desired, top with coconut and cherries before serving. Serve with pineapple and wafers.

Coconut, Lime, and Pistachio Cookies – found here!

  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1-1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 4 teaspoons lime juice
  • 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant coconut cream pudding mix
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup pistachios, chopped
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 large egg white, room temperature
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons grated lime zest
  1. Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and lime juice. In another bowl, whisk flour, pudding mix, baking soda and baking powder; gradually beat into creamed mixture. Stir in pistachios and dried cranberries. With clean beaters, beat egg white on medium speed until thick and foamy; stir in coconut.
  2. Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with bottom of a glass dipped in sugar. Top with coconut mixture. Bake until until edges begin to brown, 10-12 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. Sprinkle with lime zest. Store in airtight containers.

Jalapeno Popper Dip – found here!

  • 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced jalapeno peppers
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sliced green onions, optional
  • Corn chips, tortilla chips or assorted crackers
  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar, chilies, peppers and 1/4 cup Parmesan until blended. Spoon into an ungreased 1-1/2-qt. baking dish.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, oil and remaining Parmesan. Sprinkle over cheese mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 20-25 min. or until golden brown. Sprinkle with green onions, if desired. Serve with chips or crackers.

Roasted Beetroot and Garlic Hummus – found here!

  • 3 fresh medium beets (about 1 pound)
  • 1 whole garlic bulb
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper, divided
  • 1 teaspoon plus 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
  • 1 can (15 ounces) garbanzo beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, optional
  • Minced fresh dill weed or parsley
  • Assorted fresh vegetables
  • Sliced or torn pita bread
  1. Preheat oven to 375°. Pierce beets with a fork; place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Microwave beets on high for 4 minutes, stirring halfway. Cool slightly. Wrap beets in individual foil packets.
  2. Remove papery outer skin from garlic bulb, but do not peel or separate cloves. Cut in half crosswise. Sprinkle halves with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; drizzle with 1 teaspoon oil. Wrap in individual foil packets. Roast beets and garlic until cloves are soft, about 45 minutes.
  3. Remove from oven; unwrap. Rinse beets with cold water; peel when cool enough to handle. Squeeze garlic from skins. Place beets and garlic in a food processor. Add garbanzo beans, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, cayenne pepper and remaining olive oil, salt and ground pepper. Process until smooth.
  4. If desired, pulse 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt with beet mixture, dolloping remaining yogurt over finished hummus. Sprinkle with dill or parsley. Serve with assorted vegetables and pita bread.

Enjoy your summer snacks!

Jul12

Enjoy the experience of local food and local talent all at once at the Black Goose Inn. Minutes from the Tanglewood beach vacation rentals you’ll find some great eats and live music!

Check out their extensive menu full of snacks, starters, salads, mains, pies and even something for the kids! It’s traditional British cooking just minutes from your vacation home! Black Goose Inn offers an authentic experience welcome to the entire family, including your 4 legged friends. An outdoor patio is available. Happy hour is offered from 3-5pm with live music between the hours of 6pm-8:30pm. Find the live music schedule here!

Some of our favourite items on the menu are:

Strawberry and Pecan Spinach Salad – Spinach, Strawberries, Feta, Home made candied pecans, Balsamic Dressing

Lamb Shank – Red wine rosemary oven braised lamb shank, Buttery mashed potatoes, Peas, Red win lamb jus

Baked Wild Sockeye Salmon – Sockeye salmon, Buttery Mashed Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables and a Creamy lobster sauce

Of course, our cottages come fully equipped with everything you need to make your own home cooked meal – but who wants to cook every night of their vacation!