The majestic coastal peak backdrop was our only reminder that Vancouver's bustling city centre lay, as the crow flies, a short half-hour away.

Although an appropriate figure of speech, this was one particular bird family member that did not fly overhead as we paddled along the tranquil shores of the Fraser River. Perched on towering limbs, however, we sighted two bald eagles and the incredible departure of a Great Blue Heron as we journeyed around the grassy marshland terrain. Sandhill cranes, Northern Pintails, American Coots, and mallards were a few other waterfowl species who created the melodic accompaniment as we glided back to our getaway.

The sun's setting rays reflected off colourful hanging baskets and climbing clematis as we canoed back to the dock of Duck Inn. Appropriately named, reminders of this fine-feathered family were symbolically featured throughout this charming inn where guests have a choice of two private, self-contained cottages along the water's edge. Each is a delightful guest-nest with a private river-view deck that for us, was the perfect setting for a romantic dinner although for those who prefer to dine out, the heart of Ladner's quaint fishing village is but a five minute drive away, where a variety of restaurants boast a bounty of local seafood fare.

A soft warm breeze brushed the branches of the aged weeping willow as we snuggled in a hammock under it's limbs. The garden patio was privately secluded from others by its bordering perennials and our viewpoint of the peaceful Fraser felt like a scene out of a Huck Finn tale.

Later, the glow from the wood-burning stove and various lit candles created another perfect ambiance, and while munching on popcorn and other surprises, we enjoyed a night-time flick on the living room's VCR. Fresh cut bouquets provided that extra attention to detail and a decanter of sherry was waiting as a thoughtful night-cap. For listening comfort, a complete stereo system was equipped with various CDs, and the bookshelf was stacked with an assortment of reading material to browse through.

Following vigorous back scrubbing in our large slate and glass shower, a soothing soak in the floating Florida Room hot tub (reserved for Willow Cottage guests), we nested into our eiderdown-draped feather-bedded King, and slept soundly till daybreak.

Guests in the other cottage, The Water Garden, have a deep two person soaker tub on their private waterfront verandah as well as a slate and glass shower in their bathroom. The Water Garden is a favourite for wedding nights and other romantic occasions.

Jill and Allen York are the creators of this great escape and although they promote the optimum privacy couples come here to find, are always available to graciously assist, inform, and upon request, provide river-boat tours. When not tending to the guest's needs, Allen can be found smoking his fresh-caught salmon in preparation for breakfast extravaganzas.

Accompanied by cream cheese, you will also find waiting in your Duck Inn fridge, fresh baked bagels, baguettes, farm eggs, home-made preserves and other breakfast delectables, permitting you to rise and dine at your own convenient time.

Walk around the trails at the nearby Ladner Harbour Park where its towering Cottonwood Trees are the perfect perches for nesting bald eagles. Untie the Inn's canoe and paddle up river to the popular Reifel Bird Sanctuary. Borrow the bikes to cruise the dikes and flatlands. It's all well worth the exercise, especially if you are a bird lover! Delta, being situated at the estuary of the Fraser River, offers fabulous year-round feather-viewing, and much like this B&B its an absolutely ducky place to visit!