On my first visit to Barkerville I promised myself a return trip of more than one day. Barkerville is a jewel of a preserved town with a seasonal population of dedicated historians who take on roles from clergymen to bakers. We stayed in the St George Hotel and were transported back in time. The landlady, Saya, is straight from the Gold Rush. The hotel is right on the main street with a balcony that takes in the view of the street and the forest in front. A great place to sit when night time comes and all is deserted on Main Street, that is apart from the spirits of yesterday. Fabulous breakfasts, comfortable beds and a wealth of information from Saya and, in fact, from all the knowledgable characters of Barkerville. I booked 6 months in advance as I know it gets busy. It was worth the wait.

We had the best time in Barkerville. The personal attention from owner and staff made it a special stay. Clean, comfy beds, great upstairs veranda overlooking Main St, and a most excellent breakfast. our eleven year old son really enjoyed the stay, other than the ghosts.

Once in a lifetime experience, but we hope to go back.

I agree with all the other reviews - the St. George Hotel is fantastic. It was so convenient to stay right in Barkerville and the hotel itself is very nice. However, we stayed there with our two children (aged 8 and 10), and I would not recommend the St. George for young families. The owner, Saya, is extremely nice and friendly but does not have much patience for children. I don't think young kids are particularly welcome.

At one level, this can be described as a small, modest guest house from another age, with added modern plumbing. But that would be disingenuous.

Barkerville is a remarkable place, well worth the hundred-mile round trip from the nearest (and only) main road in the area, and the USP that this hotel can offer is the ability to have Barkerville to yourself, after the crowds have gone – but hopefully before the bears descend from the woods, which apparently they do.

Do not even think of staying here if you value the ‘comforts’ of a Holiday Inn. But as experiences go, this has few rivals in the world – and I write as someone who has travelled four continents.