ZOOM | SUMMER 2023

In January 1993, speaking no English and with the help of a translator, he
flew back to Canada and made his dream come true. The rest of his family
joined him and by April of the same year, the motel and restaurant reopened.
It was a tough go in the early years. He was living his dream, but it required
all his time and commitment to make it work. For approximately the first ten
years the motel and restaurant remained open all year for breakfast, lunch,
and dinner. Then things slowed down, which was a respite, until it was too
slow and he wondered if they would make it. In 2015 the clientele picked
back up, and in the last few years people have renewed their appreciation for
the value of this pristine piece of land that the Cogrossi family has worked
so hard to maintain. Be it first time guests or those that have returned every
summer for over 25 years, Aldo and family are here to share this oasis
with everyone.
A strong family and team are at the helm of their success. Paolo, one of
Aldo’s sons, is his right-hand man in the kitchen. His mother Gabriella (82) is
committed to doing the administration and bookkeeping. His father Antonio
(86), whose nickname is “The Sheriff,” polices the parking lot and looks after
the painted turtles. Brigit, Aldo’s wife, tends to the flower gardens, bakes
for the restaurant, and teaches yoga on the lakeside platform, five times a
week between June 2 nd and September 2 nd . Spots fill up quickly, so make
sure to reserve ahead of time. Plus, there are 25 people on staff; many have
been with him for years and are now like family. Ruby Lake Resort and La
Trattoria Italiana have been important for the economy in the area and for
community connection.
Aldo’s mission in life is to nurture the 80 acres of natural environment that
Ruby Lake Resort sits on. Over the years he has extended the gardens until
they supply upwards of 40% of the food that the restaurant serves. He tends
to the land as he tends to life – with love and integrity. Aldo believes we
are inexplicably entwined with nature, and we live in constant give and take
between the two. He wants to make sure that he gives more than he takes,
though. As each year passes, he falls deeper in love with the beauty and
abundance of nature that surrounds us on the Sunshine Coast.
Over the years, Aldo has met thousands of amazing people. He loves
the intimate conversations he squeezes into his busy workdays and the
connection to those who enjoy and appreciate the land he fosters and the
food he serves.
Another busy year, their weekends are often filled with weddings, space
is limited for lodging, and reservations for the restaurant are strongly
recommended. However, they still have other special events. Chefs in the
Woods, their annual Chef Fundraiser with Culinary Team BC was held on
July 16 th . This event is always a great evening of scrumptious foods from
different chefs, wine tastings, live music and dancing, all under the stars in
the outdoor amphitheatre at Ruby Lake Resort. And it wouldn’t be special if
there wasn’t a 30 th Anniversary celebration, now, would it? On September 9 th
they will be hosting an Anniversary Party to celebrate the land, the people,
and the family business.
When asked how he does it, Aldo chalks it up to love, drive, and teamwork.
Happy 30 th Anniversary to Ruby Lake Resort, La Trattoria Italiana, and the
Cogrossi family! May the next 30 years be just as exciting and fulfilling.
Cin cin! ·
RUBY LAKE RESORT IS LOCATED AT 15426 SUNSHINE COAST HIGHWAY IN MADEIRA PARK, BC.
CELEBRATING OUR 30 TH ANNIVERSARY
Swim, paddle, hike, bike,
marvel at the views...
or just laze in one of our
lagoon view cottages,
tiny wood cabins, or safari tents.
Then treat yourself to
world-class dining with the
finest wild mushrooms &
grass-fed beef, Ocean Wise TM
seafood, pasta & fresh
farm-to-table produce, fine
wines, cocktails & craft beer.
Ruby Lake Resort is a
destination like no other!
make beautiful memories
SPECIAL EVENTS . PRIVATE PARTIES . FAMILY REUNIONS . WEDDINGS
604.883.2269 | info@rubylakeresort.com | www.rubylakeresort.com
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