Cool Getaways - 604 Now https://604now.com/content-series/cool-getaways/ Everything about Vancouver - News, Events, Food, Concerts Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:11:42 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 https://604now.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/cropped-favi-32x32.gif Cool Getaways - 604 Now https://604now.com/content-series/cool-getaways/ 32 32 7 Weekend Getaways From Vancouver That Feel Like A Vacation https://604now.com/weekend-vacation-getaways-near-vancouver-bc/ https://604now.com/weekend-vacation-getaways-near-vancouver-bc/#respond Sat, 01 Jun 2024 08:09:32 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=165879 If you’re craving a vacation but only have the weekend, check out one of these must-visit getaway destinations from Vancouver. From beautiful cabins in the woods to white sand beaches

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If you’re craving a vacation but only have the weekend, check out one of these must-visit getaway destinations from Vancouver.

From beautiful cabins in the woods to white sand beaches and waterfalls, BC has it all. Even though you won’t be traveling too far, you’ll be in full vacay mode.

So why not step away from the busy city life this weekend and plan yourself a little getaway.

RELATED: 7 Places In BC That Feel Like An Exotic Getaway

Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

Hornby Island

 

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This hidden gem is often described as being a world of wonders, with its pristine sandy beaches, lush forests and starry skies. It’s a little bit of a trek, as visitors will have to take three ferries to get from the Lower Mainland to the magical little island. But once you arrive, you’ll quickly realize it was totally worth it. It’s home to the breathtaking Tribune Bay, which has incredible emerald green waters.

Location: Take a ferry to Nanaimo, drive to Buckley Bay and take a ferry to Denman Island and then drive over to Gravelly Bay to take the final ferry to Hornby Island.

Emerald Lake Lodge

This is easily one of the most beautiful places in the province. Emerald Lake Lodge can be found nestled in the serene Yoho National Park. Anyone whose travelled here knows it’s heaven on earth. It’s an eight hour drive away from Vancouver, but there are so many sights to see along the way as you travel through Kamloops and Revelstoke.

Location: Yoho National Park, Field

Wickaninnish Inn

It’s always a vacation in Tofino, as time just seems to stand still when you’re on island time. When in the surfer town, stay at the charming Wickaninnish Inn for a truly memorable experience. The beachfront resort and spa is right on nature’s edge, where you can see all the beauty surrounding you as soon as you wake up.

Location: 500 Osprey Lane, Tofino

Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort

 

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This one-of-a-kind getaway offers a secluded retreat in nature, nestled in BC’s incredible Great Bear Rainforest. It’s so remote, that you’ll have to fly in. You can catch a seaplane from Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo or Tofino. The resort is made up of a series of cozy chalets right by the water with unbelievable wilderness views.

Location: 100 Little Nimmo Bay, Mackenzie Sound, Mount Waddington

Johnson Lake

 

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Escape to the beautiful area of Barriere to discover this spectacular lake that is known as being the clearest body of water in BC. Many have compared the crystal clear waters found here to what you would see in the Caribbean. Therefore, you’ll definitely feel like you’re on vacation and may never want to even come back.

Location: Barriere, just north of Kamloops

Calvert Island

 

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Much like Nimmo Bay, you can find this piece of paradise in the Great Bear Rainforest region, just north of Port Hardy. The remote island is home to a variety of secluded bays, coves and lagoons that you must explore at least once. It also seems much more tropical than what you’d expect to find in the province. In fact, this destination is often referred to as the Caribbean of BC.

Location: On the southern edge of the Great Bear Rainforest, just north of Port Hardy

Sombrio Beach

There is plenty to see and do at this beautiful beach nestled in Juan De Fuca Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. It’s the perfect weekend getaway for adventurers, with lots to explore in the area. It’s even home to a stunning waterfall that is hidden inside a cave. It’s also a popular spot for surfing, camping and picnicking.

Location: Juan De Fuca Provincial Park, Vancouver Island

 

For more places to explore in beautiful BC, check out our Travel & Outdoors section.

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9 Beautiful Lakes Within A 2 Hour Drive From Vancouver https://604now.com/beautiful-lakes-near-vancouver/ https://604now.com/beautiful-lakes-near-vancouver/#respond Sun, 19 May 2024 19:16:29 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=194271 The best part about living in Vancouver is being within a couple of hours (and sometimes even minutes) of some of BC’s most beautiful lakes. Take advantage of all the

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The best part about living in Vancouver is being within a couple of hours (and sometimes even minutes) of some of BC’s most beautiful lakes.

Take advantage of all the beauty the province has to offer this summer by visiting one of these bucket list worthy lakes near Vancouver (aka within a 2 hour drive from the city).

RELATED: 5 Beautiful Lakes In BC With Bright Blue Sparkling Waters

Best Lakes near Vancouver

Buntzen Lake

Discover this gem in Anmore, near Port Moody. The lake is 4.8 kilometres long and is named after Johannes Buntzen — the first general manager of BC Electric Co. There is also a smaller lake just to the north named McCombe Lake. This is a popular spot for both swimming and hiking in the warm summer months.

Cultus Lake

An hour-and-a-half away from Vancouver, this Fraser Valley lake is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the dog days of summer. Go swimming, camping or take part in a variety of fun water activities on the lake. Cultus Lake Marina allows you to rent out boats, jet skis, pontoons and more.

Sasamat Lake

 

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This lake is a local favourite and it’s easy to see why. Find it within Belcarra Regional Park in Port Moody, just outside of Vancouver. It’s one of the warmest lakes in Metro Vancouver. There’s a floating bridge at the south end of the lake, often used for fishing or swimming. And White Pine Beach is located at the north end of the lake.

Joffre Lakes

 

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Discover the magical Joffre Lakes Provincial Park just 35 kilometres east of Pemberton. There’s three glacier-fed lakes known as the lower, middle and upper Joffre Lakes. It’s only about a 2.5 hour drive away from Vancouver but feels like a world away. Plus, there’s lots of hiking trails and places to pitch up a tent with epic views of the area.

Garibaldi Lake

 

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This is easily one of BC’s most popular hiking and camping destinations. The turquoise-coloured waters of Garibaldi Lake are definitely worth the road trip. It’s located 19 kilometres south of Whistler and about 37 kilometres north of Squamish. As for Vancouver, you can reach Garibaldi Provincial Park in about an hour-and-a-half.

Lindeman Lake

 

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Visit this small but scenic lake located in Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park that’s just a little over a 2 hour drive from Vancouver. This gorgeous spot is also a popular hiking destination as it’s located at the end of an easy 3.4 kilometre trail. The green-coloured waters also make for the perfect photo-op.

Harrison Lake

 

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It’s the largest lake in the southern Coast Mountains of Canada, and is perfect for going swimming or boating. To bring out the inner kid in you, check out the Wipeout-style water park located in the middle of the lake. The floating park has many obstacles and attractions that catapult you into the water. Harrison is also only a 2 hour drive away from the city.

Cat Lake

For an Instagram-worthy lake, look no further than Cat Lake in Squamish. This lake is a little less known than the others and that means it’s usually not as busy. It also has an easy loop trail if you’re looking to go for a leisurely (yet scenic) stroll with friends or family.

Mystery Lake

 

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Nestled in the breathtaking Mount Seymour Provincial Park on the North Shore, Mystery Lake is a stunning spot that is only a short distance from the parking lot. The lake is a popular spot in the summer for families to hike to and spend some time picnicing near the water’s edge.

 

 

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5 Small BC Towns That Take Holiday Spirit To The Next Level https://604now.com/bc-small-towns-to-visit-during-the-holidays-christmas/ https://604now.com/bc-small-towns-to-visit-during-the-holidays-christmas/#respond Sun, 26 Nov 2023 18:00:52 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=170978 ‘Tis the season for a little holiday magic. Experience the best the season has to offer by visiting one of these small BC towns and villages that take holiday spirit

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‘Tis the season for a little holiday magic.

Experience the best the season has to offer by visiting one of these small BC towns and villages that take holiday spirit to the next level.

Much like in the movies, the holiday season is the best time to step away from the busy hustle and bustle of the city. Spending some time in a smaller town, may be exactly what you need to wind down and reflect on busy year.

RELATED: 6 Metro Vancouver Parks That Are Even More Beautiful In The Winter

BC towns to visit during the holidays

Fort Langley

 

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Take a festive stroll through this charming village in the Township of Langley to experience all the Christmas feels. The picturesque village is often used as a backdrop for many Hallmark Christmas movies and it’s easy to see why. With twinkling lights brightening up the historic village, it’s made for the small screen.

Whistler

 

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Escape to the village of Whistler, which is a magical place to visit anytime of the year but it seems to just transform during Christmas time. Shop ’til you drop at one of the many boutiques along the main strip, go ice skating near the Olympic Plaza and take part in a variety of winter activities in the mountains.

Fernie

 

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Discover the magical ski town of Fernie, which also happens to be one of the best places to experience Christmas magic, especially when it’s covered in snow. There’s nothing more Christmas-like than a cozy small town in the middle of winter. It also looks straight out of a movie scene, and it’s actually a popular spot for filming. The 2010 hit Hot Tub Time Machine was filmed in the town, with the fictional resort of Kodiak Valley actually being the Fernie Alpine Resort.

Harrison Hot Springs

Explore the Lights by the Lake in Harrison Hot Springs to soak up the best of the holiday season. Every year, the village lights up the quaint lakeside in true holiday fashion. Each business decorates their storefront and Christmas trees and old fashioned lamps grace the village square. The Lights by the Lake holiday display lights up one kilometre of waterfront along the promenade.

Nelson

The charming town of Nelson is known as being one of the best ski towns in North America. Nelson acquires an abundance of snowfall throughout the winter months, which makes it the ideal stomping grounds for alpine activities. A simple stroll through the town with all of twinkling lights will also make you feel like you’re part of a holiday movie.

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5 BC Getaways With Incredible White Sand Beaches https://604now.com/white-sand-beaches-in-british-columbia/ https://604now.com/white-sand-beaches-in-british-columbia/#respond Mon, 17 Jul 2023 12:00:09 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=165330 Dreamy white sand beaches and tropical vibes may be closer than you think. BC is home to a handful of magical places that look a lot more exotic than what

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Dreamy white sand beaches and tropical vibes may be closer than you think.

BC is home to a handful of magical places that look a lot more exotic than what you’d expect to find in the province.

Discover the best Caribbean-like destinations BC has to offer at these local hot spots.

RELATED: 5 Freshwater Swimming Holes Near Vancouver To Dip Into This Summer

White Sand Beaches In BC

Chesterman Spit, Tofino

 

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Visit this incredible locale located between North and South Chesterman Beach. The sand spit reaches out from Chesterman Beach to Frank Island, which features white sand beaches and unsurpassed views of the region. It’s only accessible at low-tide, making it an even more special sight to see. Just remember if you wander off to Frank Island, to be sure to make your way back before the high-tide rolls in.

Location: Find it in Tofino, in between North and South Chesterman Beach

San Josef Bay, Cape Scott Provincial Park

 

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You’ll feel like you’ve been transported somewhere far away when visiting this beautiful beach in Cape Scott Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. The park is actually home to several white sand beaches, including San Josef Bay. The others include Guise Bay, Experiment Bight, Lowrie Bight and Nissen Bight. Therefore, it’s the perfect place to go beach hopping.

Location: Discover this gem nestled in Cape Scott Provincial Park on Vancouver Island

Sombrio Beach, Juan De Fuca Provincial Park

 

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Escape to this picturesque beach that is part of the scenic Juan De Fuca Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. You’ll feel like you’ve gone on a tropical vacation after a day spent beach-combing here. Plus, the beach also features a secret waterfall that can be discovered inside a cave mere steps away.

Location: It’s nestled in Juan De Fuca Provincial Park on Vancouver Island

Tribune Bay, Hornby Island

 

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With its white sandy beaches and aquamarine waters, this might just be the closest you get to Hawaii without boarding a plane. The pristine Tribune Bay on Hornby Island has been rightfully given the nickname “Little Hawaii.” It’s an idyllic destination for those looking to enjoy the simplicity of island life.

Location: Find Tribune Bay on Hornby Island, which is on the east side of Vancouver Island

Calvert Island, Near Port Hardy

 

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This remote jewel will take your breath away. The tropical oasis will seemingly transport you to the Caribbean without ever actually stepping foot outside the province, let alone the country. The island features a variety of secluded bays, coves and lagoons just waiting to be explored. It’s also often referred to as being the Caribbean of BC.

Location: It’s located on the southern edge of the Great Bear Rainforest, just north of Port Hardy

 

For more bucket list worthy destinations in beautiful BC, check out our Travel & Outdoors section.

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5 Beautiful Lakes In BC With Bright Blue Sparkling Waters https://604now.com/bright-blue-sparkling-lakes-in-british-columbia/ https://604now.com/bright-blue-sparkling-lakes-in-british-columbia/#respond Sat, 24 Jun 2023 08:25:08 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=166772 You don’t have to travel somewhere tropical to be treated to bright blue sparkling waters and our province proves that. Explore some of the most breathtaking lakes in BC that

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You don’t have to travel somewhere tropical to be treated to bright blue sparkling waters and our province proves that.

Explore some of the most breathtaking lakes in BC that will make you feel like you’re on the other side of the world.

RELATED: 4 Of BC’s Most Popular Parks Will Require Day Passes This Summer

Sparkling Blue Lakes in BC

Calvert Island, Great Bear Rainforest

 

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A pristine paradise awaits visitors at the magical Calvert Island, which is a part of the Great Bear Rainforest region. While it’s quite the trek to travel here, it’s well worth the trip. The seemingly tropical island has a variety of secluded bays, coves and lagoons just waiting to be explored. Plus, it’s even referred to as being the Caribbean of BC.

Location: Nestled on the southern edge of the Great Bear Rainforest, just north of Port Hardy

Johnson Lake, Barriere

Find serenity by going for a dip at this picturesque lake, which is known as being the clearest body of water in BC. Many people who visit this incredible locale compare the sparkling waters to what you would find in the Caribbean. So if you’re looking for an alternative, this spot will feel just like a tropical vacation, even though it’s right in your own backyard.

Location: Find it in the beautiful area of Barriere, just north of Kamloops

Mystic Beach, Juan De Fuca Provincial Park

 

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Discover impossibly blue waters at this bucket list worthy spot on Vancouver Island. The incredible destination also features a stunning waterfall that cascades from the cliffs above that will take your breath away. And to make this spot even more awesome, it’s also home to a rope swing that overlooks the ocean.

Location: Find it at the end of a hike in the gorgeous area of Juan De Fuca Provincial Park

Yoho National Park, Field

 

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This place is not only one of the most sought-after locations in BC, but quite possibly one of the most spectacular places on earth. It’s filled with so much natural beauty that you just won’t be able to find anywhere else. The serene Emerald Lake will dazzle visitors with its emerald-green waters and the picturesque Rockies as the ultimate backdrop.

Location: It’s in Field, which is just outside Lake Louise, near the BC-Alberta border

Tribune Bay, Hornby Island

 

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Escape to Hornby Island, where you’ll find a plethora of beautiful sights to take in, including Tribune Bay. The vibrant waters and pristine sandy beaches will definitely sweep you off your feet. It’s a little bit of a trek, as visitors will have to take three ferries to get from the Lower Mainland to the magical little island. But once you arrive, you’ll quickly realize it was totally worth it.

Location: Take a ferry to Nanaimo, drive to Buckley Bay and take a ferry to Denman Island and then drive over to Gravelly Bay to take the final ferry to Hornby Island

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This Underrated Day Trip Is Only 1.5 Hours From Downtown Vancouver https://604now.com/bowen-island-day-trips-from-vancouver-bc/ https://604now.com/bowen-island-day-trips-from-vancouver-bc/#respond Fri, 09 Jun 2023 16:22:44 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=106638 Bowen Island offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Vancouver. Located just 25 km northwest of Vancouver, the tiny island is only 6 km wide and

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Bowen Island offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Vancouver.

Located just 25 km northwest of Vancouver, the tiny island is only 6 km wide and 12 km long. With that being said, what it lacks in land mass in makes up for in charm.

With its positively adorable harbour, the island greets visitors with picturesque eateries along its waterfront boulevard.

RELATED: This Breathtaking Island Is Known As The ‘Hawaii Of British Columbia’

Indeed, Bowen provides a serene seaside sanctuary that is extremely accessible from the mainland.

In fact, visitors may take a short, 20 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Alternatively, they may take a 45 minute water taxi from Granville Island.

 

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Bowen Island

While Bowen is beautiful, it also offers a plethora of fun activities. Popular marine activities include kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and whale watching.

Aside from those, people also enjoy wading in the water, swimming or simply sun tanning by the water.

 

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Of course, the island is lovely on the water; however, the land is also fun to explore.

As a result, people like to rent scooters and breathe in the island air while taking in the sights and sounds.

 

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In addition, there are a number of hiking trails to take during your visit, and the island has yummy ice-creameries to reward yourself with after the exercise!

For those staying longer, the island offers comfortable accommodations that offer a range of amenities including spa services. What’s more, you can arrange a tour of the island to get the most of your stay, or visit one of the museums to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

 

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BC Has One Of The Most Desired Airbnbs In Canada + You Can Feed Sheep Outside https://604now.com/cob-cottage-mayne-island-bc/ https://604now.com/cob-cottage-mayne-island-bc/#respond Fri, 05 May 2023 17:30:47 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=114219 Escape to the quaint Mayne Island for a romantic weekend getaway or for a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Cob Cottage is an an hour-and-a-half

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Escape to the quaint Mayne Island for a romantic weekend getaway or for a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Cob Cottage is an an hour-and-a-half ferry ride from Tsawwassen and then you can find this little slice of a heaven just a ten minute drive away from the terminal.

According to Airbnb, this is also one of their most “wish listed” property in the entire country.

RELATED: This Glamping Getaway In Halfmoon Bay Will Take Your Breath Away

Hobbit House

The cozy Cob Cottage is nestled on private property and completely immersed in nature. There’s a house nearby where the host lives but the hobbit house is secluded amongst lush trees and wildlife.

You can open your front door to see sheep wandering around and feed them apples from the orchard. Chickens and other farm animals are also lurking around the acreage.

hobbit house
Photo: GlampingHub

What makes the accommodation even more unique is that it’s made from cob—a natural building material that is made from subsoil, water and sometimes lime. Cob houses are fireproof and earthquake-proof.

Plus, they’re just adorable. It looks like something out of a fairytale and that feeling is amplified when you walk through the door.

hobbit house
Photo: GlampingHub

String lights, plants and candles make up the decor in the 650-square-foot space. The rustic and homey touches will make you never want to leave this haven.

It features a double bed, futon, wood-burning stove, reading nook near the fireplace, lots of books, board games and more.

hobbit house cob cottage
Photo: Airbnb

The island also has lots of small-town charm to offer. Explore the serene Japanese garden, lighthouse park and little boutique shops.

It is definitely a popular destination though, so bookings are usually done months in advance. If you want to call this place home for a week or weekend be sure to  plan ahead.

 

Cob Cottage

Where: Mayne Island, booking through Glamping Hub or Airbnb

Cost: Around $200 per night

 

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This BC Mountain Town Is Like A Mini Whistler Without The Crowds https://604now.com/silverstar-mountain-resort-bc/ https://604now.com/silverstar-mountain-resort-bc/#respond Wed, 29 Mar 2023 17:44:07 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=193171 When the mountains are calling — you may feel inclined to hit up Whistler. But there’s another charming mountain town you might want to consider instead. Resting in the Monashee

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When the mountains are calling — you may feel inclined to hit up Whistler. But there’s another charming mountain town you might want to consider instead.

Resting in the Monashee Mountain Range, SilverStar Mountain Resort is known as being one of the Okanagan’s best kept secrets. And that means — while it’s a lot smaller than Whistler — it’s also less crowded.

So it’s an idyllic getaway the next time you’re in need of some mountain air and outdoor activities.

RELATED: Watch Wild Bison From Your Private Hot Tub At This Resort Less Than 2 Hours From Vancouver

SilverStar Mountain Resort

SilverStar Mountain Resort is a world-renowned ski resort located in the interior of British Columbia, Canada. Situated on the edge of the Monashee Mountains, the resort boasts over 3,200 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski areas in the province.

Despite its remote location, the resort is easily accessible, being only a five-hour drive from Vancouver or a one-hour drive from the Kelowna International Airport. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, SilverStar Mountain Resort is the perfect destination for a winter getaway.

What to do

The vibrant village offers many activities all-year-round. Of course, it’s completely transformed into a ski town during the winter months. But in the spring, summer and fall months, it’s largely dominated by mountain biking and hiking.

The SilverStar Bike Park has been rated as one of the best downhill mountain bike areas in Canada. There’s also a cross country network that features more than 70 kilometres worth of purpose-built singletrack trails.

Take in the valley views with a quick ride up the mountain on the gondola. Once you reach the top, you can take advantage of the hiking opportunities, forage for berries and get some breathtaking photos of the wildflowers.

It also offers a fun self-guided adventure the whole family can enjoy with the SilverStar Gnome Roam. There are gnomes hiding all over the resort, including on top of the mountain and at the base.

If self-care is needed after a day of exploring, be sure to make a massage appointment at Elevate Spa, the mountain’s only full-service Aveda day spa. Located in the heart of the village, this is the perfect place to get some pampering in.

Where to stay

There are several spots to stay in town, including Firelight Lodge, Lord Aberdeen Hotel, Silver Creek Lodge, Bulldog Hotel and Snowbird Lodge.

The latter is right in the heart of the village, and all the rooms (except studios) are equipped with their own private hot tub. The property also features a 24-seat theatre, fitness room and a kids play area.

Where to dine

Despite the town’s small size, it actually has a lot of places to dine out at. Get the best of Canadian cuisine (and the mountain’s largest selection of beer on tap) at The Red Antler, one of the most popular places in town. Their menu includes a variety of share plates, burgers, tacos, salads and bowls.

For the best coffee and pastries, be sure to stop by Bugaboos Bakery Cafe. The Dutch-inspired bakery is loved by many for its breakfast, lunch and après ski options. Bugaboos owner, Frank, has also made a name for himself with his warm hospitality making you feel like one of the locals. You absolutely cannot leave here without trying one of their cream puffs or cinnamon buns though.

Another town favourite is Pizza Gratta. The pizza joint prides itself on its comfort food made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients. And what makes it different from other pizza shops, is that they make their pizzas with sourdough. Not only is it delicious, but also more nutritious and easier to digest.

 

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Watch Wild Bison From Your Private Hot Tub At This Resort Less Than 2 Hours From Vancouver https://604now.com/fraser-river-lodge-bc/ https://604now.com/fraser-river-lodge-bc/#respond Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:28:19 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=192945 It’s not every day you get to watch wild bison roaming a field right before your very eyes — but one resort in the Fraser Valley offers just that. And

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It’s not every day you get to watch wild bison roaming a field right before your very eyes — but one resort in the Fraser Valley offers just that. And better yet, you can enjoy the unique wildlife sighting from the comfort of a private hot tub.

Fraser River Lodge is a bucket list worthy destination that both locals and tourists alike must experience at least once.

RELATED: The Best Glamping Spots In The Fraser Valley

The rustic yet luxurious lodge is tucked away in Agassiz. It’s just a 1.5 hour drive away from Vancouver. Although it feels like you’re somewhere much farther away though — as it’s completely secluded — and sitting on 18 acres of private land.

Book a stay in the resort’s Homestead Chalet, Outpost, Deluxe Suites, Executive Suites or Bison Hot Tub Suites.

Fraser River Lodge is an idyllic stay for many, whether you’re looking for a night away, a fishing tip, getting married, or planning a corporate retreat.

There are lots of activities to take part in on the property. This including axe throwing, trap shooting, golf, wilderness yoga and a campfire area where you can make some s’mores.

And there’s dining options available right on-site, but it is by reservation only. Be sure to ask if there’s availability when you’re booking your accommodation.

Bison Hot Tub Suites

These suites are located just west of the lodge and feature breathtaking panoramic views of the Fraser River and the Cascade Mountain range.

They are all equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, luxurious king beds, grand rock fireplaces, rain showers and private hot tubs on the patio. Sitting at eye level with the bison, the hot tub suites give guests the rare opportunity to interact with these wild animals.

The foyer of the building that these suites are in is also dedicated to the bison, in an effort to educate guests on the conservation of the animals.

Fraser River Lodge

Address: 7984 McDonald Rd S, Agassiz, BC

 

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The Best Campsites Within A 3 Hour Drive Of Vancouver https://604now.com/best-campsites-near-vancouver/ https://604now.com/best-campsites-near-vancouver/#respond Thu, 23 Mar 2023 15:18:22 +0000 https://604now.com/?p=192924 BC Parks has officially opened its campsite reservations for the 2023 season — and that means it’s time to start plotting some summer adventures. Make the most of the beautiful

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BC Parks has officially opened its campsite reservations for the 2023 season — and that means it’s time to start plotting some summer adventures.

Make the most of the beautiful province we live in by adding one of these campsites near Vancouver to your bucket list.

They’re all within a 3 hour drive of the city — so you can just head off for the weekend right from the office on Friday afternoon.

RELATED: 35 Scenic Hikes + Nature Walks To Tackle In Metro Vancouver This Summer

 

Best Campsites near Vancouver

Golden Ears Provincial Park, Maple Ridge

 

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One of BC’s largest parks, Golden Ears in Maple Ridge is an exceptional destination for all sorts of recreational activities. The park features three large campgrounds and an extensive system of hiking and horseback riding trails.

Alouette Lake, meanwhile, is a popular spot for swimming, windsurfing, water-skiing, canoeing, boating, and fishing.

The park’s extensive backcountry is mountainous and rugged — making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, Sunshine Coast

This hidden gem is absolute paradise. The campground is nestled in the serene area of Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast.

The campground offers many opportunities for coastal fun and is a favourite family park. It also features a fairly private area for you to enjoy some down time with friends and family.

The park is separated from the Strait of Georgia by the isthmus at Sechelt. It’s characterized by second-growth forest, open grassy areas, and sandy beaches. Porpoise Bay Park also makes an excellent basecamp for paddlers exploring the Sechelt Inlet.

Saltery Bay Provincial Park, Sunshine Coast

 

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Discover another gem on the Sunshine Coast, near Powell River. With 42 different campsites to choose from, you really can’t go wrong. The campground is just a kilometre north of the Saltery Bay Ferry Terminal.

Saltery Bay Provincial Park is divided into two separate sites: the campground and the day-use area. The day-use area with its rocky beaches is a popular swimming and picnic site. Lush forests with large, old trees create a quiet setting for the campground at Mermaid Cove. At low tide, the rocky shoreline often has tidal pools with starfish, sea urchins, small fish and crabs.

It’s also a popular place for scuba divers to get a close-up look of the vast marine life.

Sunnyside Campground, Cultus Lake Provincial Park

 

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Visit this little slice of heaven in the Lower Mainland with 65 acres of campsites, including waterfront views and regular tenting, as well as full hook-up sites.

They have more than 130 tenting sites, a laundromat, horseshoe pits and a convenience store.

Sunnyside Campground is located within walking distance of everything Cultus Lake Park has to offer. This includes the world-famous Cultus Lake Waterpark, golf course, mini-golf, a putting course, boat rentals, hiking, ice cream spots, restaurants, pubs, shops and so much more.

Manning Park, EC Manning Provincial Park

 

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Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, there’s four summer drive-in campgrounds to take advantage of here during the peak season.

It’s also one of the most stunning camping areas the province has to offer and is known for its serene views and wildlife viewing opportunities.

The diversity of the park’s landscape, its ease of access, and a wealth of recreational opportunities continue to draw visitors from across the province and beyond.

Alice Lake Provincial Park, Squamish

 

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Alice Lake is a popular family park surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests, and grassy areas.

Four freshwater lakes dominate the landscape, making it a great campground for swimming and fishing.

The trail around Alice Lake is a popular spot for evening strolls while more adventurous hikers can enjoy the Four Lakes Trail. The DeBeck’s Hill Trail, meanwhile, offers excellent views of the Squamish River and the Tantalus Range.

Rolley Lake Provincial Park, Mission

Less than an hour drive from Vancouver, Rolley Lake Park provides a quick escape from urban life.

The park is a predominately flat wilderness area that is blanketed with tall, second-growth conifers. The small, warm-water lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and canoeing — making it the perfect place to go camping.

It features 64 campsites all nestled in the trees just minutes from the lakeshore. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and short hikes.

Porteau Cove Provincial Park, Squamish

 

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This place is a must for skygazers, as it’s known as one of the best parks in the province to see the stars.

Situated on the most southerly fjord in North America, Porteau Cove Provincial Park features waterfront campsites with serene views over Howe Sound to the mountains beyond.

An old ship has been sunk in the area — and often draws interest from local scuba divers.

Sasquatch Provincial Park, Harrison Hot Springs

 

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Located just north of Harrison Hot Springs, Sasquatch Provincial Park is characterized by a series of pocket lakes, a unique second-growth and birch forest, and scenic mountain ridges.

Hicks Lake and Deer Lake are ideal for motorboating and canoeing, while Trout Lake provides a tranquil fishing experience.

Visitors can also enjoy camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking here.

Garibaldi Provincial Park, Brackendale

Named after its towering 2,678 metre peak, Mount Garibaldi, this park was established in 1927. It’s known for its natural beauty and seemingly endless hiking opportunities.

Garibaldi Park’s rich geological history, diverse vegetation, snow-capped mountain, iridescent waters, abundant wildlife, and scenic vistas all contribute to the immense beauty.

Offering over 90 kilometres of established hiking trails, Garibaldi Park is a favourite year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Callaghan Lake Provincial Park, Whistler

The Callaghan Valley is a prime year-round backcountry recreation area. It is also the home of the 2010 Winter Olympics nordic sports venue (Whistler Olympic Park) for cross-country skiing, biathlon, ski jumping, and nordic combined.

Other opportunities at this park include rustic drive-in camping, canoeing, boating, fishing, and hiking.

There are numerous wetlands and small lakes, especially in the southern and eastern areas of the park, and in the upper headwaters of Callaghan Creek.

 

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