Chateau Norm
There’s no better way to end your day of sightseeing on Haida Gwaii than relaxing on the deck of Chateau Norm while drinking in the sights and sounds of this Canadian Galapagos. At Chateau Norm, guests have instant access to a variety of outdoor activities and adventures during the day, both organized and casual, including use of the three-seater canoe, two kayaks, adult bicycles and helmets and electric bicycles.
After a day of fun, guests can come back and relax in the ocean side hot tub, play board games or enjoy singing karaoke around the fire pit. Chateau Norm’s amenities include satellite TV, DVD players, WiFi, laundry facilities and a guest-use printer and fax machine. Guests can even charter a boat with Captain Norm at the helm. Each guest room features a kitchenette and breakfast foods are provided for a self-catered breakfast by the sea. Chateau Norm is environmentally focused with sustainable practices and is a Trip Advisor Green Leader.
Meet Norman Wagner & Lori Wiedeman
Meet Norman Wagner & Lori Wiedeman
Norman Wagner moved to Haida Gwaii to work as a shop teacher at the local high school. He looked for a place to rent when he arrived but wasn’t finding anything suitable until the home; which is now Chateau Norm, became available. Norman was immediately drawn to it. In spite of the fact that it was much bigger than what he needed, he saw potential for it as a bed and breakfast. After signing the rental agreement, he learned that the house had actually been built by the same man who built the trimaran sailboat that he sailed to Mexico, and he built the trimaran on the lot next door to the house! The house itself was built like an upside-down boat, clearly reflective of the builder’s passion for sailing. It seemed like fate to Norman, who decided to embrace his destiny and bought the house a year later. Using his shop skills, he renovated the house and turned it into a warm and eclectic seaside bed and breakfast, which he has now operated for well over a decade.
In 2004 Norman met his wife, Lori Wiedeman who now helps run the business. They married in 2011 at the house and then left on a one year honeymoon on a 35' Catamaran named Falcor, sailing to Hawaii before selling the boat and spending the last month touring Europe.
Norman is now retired from teaching and running Norm’s Toy Shop – a repair joint, and working as a part-time paramedic. Lori was the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Village of Daajing Giids, but has now started her own business – Morale Consulting. They point out that being multi-vocational is just a way of life on Haida Gwaii. People are willing to rely on one another and this creates a communal atmosphere that is inclusive and fun. Norm and Lori appreciate all of the opportunities for socialization that are available on the island.
Hours
Open year-round.
Please contact for Lori and Norm for reservations or information.
