Vancouver is a gorgeous destination on it’s own, but there are many nearby places to add to your itinerary. Locals are likely to head off in one of these directions when they want weekend getaways from Vancouver. Here are three family friendly side-trips.
1. Whistler
Beyond being a world class ski and snowboarding destination, Whistler is a favorite spot for birthday weekends, spa getaways (Scandinave Spa), and bachelor or bachelorette parties.
In the 10 years since Whistler co-hosted the Winter Olympics, the area has built a reputation as one of the top summer destinations in Canada. With sensational high alpine hiking trails, 3 golf courses, zip-lines, ATV and off road tours, and so much more.
The Mountain Bike Park on Whistler Mountain is known as one of the best in North America.
Located 125 km north of Vancouver (about 1.5 hour drive), Whistler is great in summertime too, with fun activities to do like hiking, swimming, SUP, downhill biking, and more. You’ll find that accommodation is less expensive than during the peak winter season.
2. Salt Spring Island
Salt Spring Island is one of the largest (70 square miles or 180 square kilometres), most populated (10,500) Gulf Islands in BC. and is a 2-hour ferry ride away from Tsawwassen ferry terminal.
You don’t need to take your car because a public transit system covers the main roads of the island, runs Monday to Saturday and transports passengers to and from the three BC Ferries terminals in Fulford, Long Harbour and Vesuvius. Another option is to rent a bike (the island is hilly though) or scooter.
5. Harrison Hot Springs
Located in the beautiful Fraser Valley just 90 minutes from Vancouver, Harrison Hot Springs offers a stunning glacier fed lake surrounded by mountains and clean fresh air, and countless recreational activities.
Visitors can enjoy the healing Harrison Hot Springs, which are in fact two springs that have some of the highest levels of minerals of any hot spring in North America. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking, biking, camping, paddling, fishing, boating, canoeing, golfing, paragliding.
Stay tuned for more of my favorite weekend getaways from Vancouver.
Harrison Hot Springs are fantastic, i went here a few years ago. Apparently the water is very dense with Magnesium and is meant to be fantastic for muscle recovery.
Cool pics too 🙂