Balmy nights and endless sunshine draw Vancouverites to embrace the great outdoors
Top Reasons to Visit Vancouver Now
Vancouver, situated in British Columbia's temperate rainforest, undergoes a remarkable transformation in the summer months. The leaden skies give way to endless sunshine, luring Vancouverites to explore the beauty of their stunning surroundings.
While Vancouver may not boast many cultural or architectural icons, its location on a peninsula surrounded by seawater channels, urban beaches, the North Shore Mountains, and Stanley Park creates a captivating cityscape. The accessibility of these scenic wonders allows for an abundance of outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to kayaking and more.
For those looking to venture out of the city, a short trip to Victoria offers a change of pace with its historical charm and scenic waterfront. Comfortable and convenient accommodation options can be found by exploring Victoria hotels on http://www.britishcolumbiahotels.net/en/victoria-hotels-2497/, ensuring that your island escapade is as restful as it is exciting.
What sets Vancouver apart is its vibrant summer scene, where lively festivals and bustling farmers' markets add an extra layer of charm to the city. Revel in the ultimate summertime experience as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural delights of Vancouver.
If you're seeking an unforgettable summer getaway, look no further than Vancouver – where the possibilities for outdoor exploration and cultural immersion are endless.
Reaching the Destination
You have a few options for flying into Vancouver. Air Canada Rouge (aircanada.com; 0871 220 1111) provides seasonal flights from London Gatwick, with return tickets starting from £454.10pp, inclusive of taxes. This is a high-value service that allows you to experience the Canadian hospitality in the sky. You can also avail the consistent services of both Air Canada and British Airways (ba.com; 0344 493 0787), who offer daily flights from London Heathrow throughout the year, making your travel plans flexible. Once landed, you can continue your journey towards downtown Vancouver on the Canada Line train. This half-hour ride from the airport offers scenic views and costs only $7.75 (£4.50) per person, making it an affordable and enjoyable travel alternative.
Where to stay
Special treat
The pool at the Fairmont Pacific Rim
Located on the waterfront at 1038 Canada Place, the Fairmont Pacific Rim (1) is Vancouver’s definitive luxury hotel, with bright, modern guestrooms plus a full-service spa with rooftop pool. Doubles from $599 (£350), excluding breakfast (001 604 695 5300). For a full review and to book, visit telegraph.co.uk/tt-fprvancouver
Mid-tier Luxury
The Loden (2) offers boutique-style accommodation with an emphasis on wellbeing, as yoga mats are a standard room accessory. Nestled in a peaceful residential neighborhood at 1177 Melville Street (001 604 669 5060; theloden.com), room prices start from $299 (£175), however breakfast isn't included in this fare. Check out telegraph.co.uk/tt-lodenvancouver for a comprehensive review and reservation details.
Affordability
In the world of affordable luxury, The Burrard (3) truly shines. Nestled at 1100 Burrard Street (001 604 681 2331; theburrard.com), this independent haven takes you back in time with its vibrant, nostalgic theme. A remodeled motel from the 50s glamour, it comes alive with vivid hues. The charm doesn't end there - attractive double rooms are available from an unbeatable $109 (£64), though breakfast isn't included.
On arrival
6pm
After the almost 10-hour flight, you’ll want to stretch your legs. The option is therefore to head straight for the painted totem poles and century-old cedars of Stanley Park (4), keeping eyes peeled for raccoons, otters, bald eagles and seals along the sea wall.
The city's past is etched in its emblematic totems.
As the clock strikes 8pm
Take your leave from the park through English Bay, tracing the sea wall until you reach 1600 Howe Street. Here, Ancora (5) (001 604 681 1164; ancoradining.com) awaits, offering a delightful blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Savor this fusion cuisine from their waterfront patio, with the enchanting sunset over False Creek serving as your backdrop.
First Day
8:00 am
If your body clock has you awake at dawn due to jet lag, seize the day and avoid the late morning rush at Café Medina (6), stationed at 780 Richards Street (phone: 001 604 879 3114; view their offerings at medinacafe.com). Their menu is a unique fusion of Moroccan flavors boasting filling options such as cassoulet and breakfast paella, while the sweet-lovers can enjoy their waffles and distinctive lavender lattes.
9:00 am
Then, jump on the free shuttle bus from Canada Place that whisks you off to Grouse Mountain (7) in just 20 minutes. See more at grousemountain.com. Known for the 1.9-mile (3km) Grouse Grind trail beloved by the locals, there's also an alternate cable car ride for those who prefer a more relaxed journey to the peak, although it costs $44.95/£26pp. Be prepared, it can get crowded with enthusiastic visitors but the breathtaking panorama from the summit is worth the hustle.
The views from Grouse Mountain are outstanding
12 noon
Stick with the outdoor theme and either walk or take the public bus down the hill to the popular Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (8) (capbridge.com; admission $44.95/£26pp). The impressive bridge was built in 1889 and spans an unspoilt, forested canyon; there’s also a cantilevered Cliff Walk, togther with some circular hiking trails and a café.
3pm
Take Capilano’s free shuttle back to Canada Place and stroll into Gastown (9), Vancouver’s oldest and most characterful neighbourhood. Water Street is particularly picturesque, but the cross-streets lined with handsome Victorian buildings are worth scouring for interesting galleries, shops and boutiques showcasing the latest made-in-Vancouver crafts and designs.
Immerse yourself in the charm and history of Gastown, Vancouver's most ancient and characterful district.
5pm
Experience the unique flavors of Vancouver in its neighboring district, Railtown. British Columbia is known for its thriving craft beer scene, make sure to stop by Postmark Brewing (10), located at 55 Dunlevy Avenue, to sample four types of beers for just $10/£5.85. This includes the crowd favorite, the West Coast pale ale. For the vinophiles, the Vancouver Urban Winery next door offers a succulent array of samples for $15/£8.75.
6pm
Jet lag and a bit of alcohol may lead you to seek solace in comforting food. Turning into Homer Street, at number 898, you'll find the Homer Street Café (11), famous for their farm-to-table concept and mouth-watering rotisserie chicken. They also host summer barbecues every last Friday of the month under the 'Meatwave' banner. For more details, check their website at homerstreetcafebar.com
Do keep in mind that their contact number is 001 604 428 4299. The food industry in Vancouver is booming with the farm-to-table concept, promoting freshness and quality of local ingredients.
Entering into the Second Day
9am
Begin your second day with an exploration of the vibrant Granville Island Public Market (12). Whether you opt to go by foot, bus or ferry, this journey across False Creek will reward you with a wealth of regionally sourced produce displayed in a kaleidoscope of colour (granvilleisland.com). While strolling among the stalls of fresh food, don't miss out the opportunity to visit its various shops and galleries. Just bear in mind that you might have company, since it ranks as the second most favorite tourist spot in the whole of Canada, trailing only behind the renowned Niagara Falls.
10am
Next, steer your day in a more bohemian direction by heading to Mount Pleasant (13), known for its thriving art scene that magnetizes the counterculture. Littered with coffee shops and boutiques, this neighbourhood is in the midst of evolution. Deepen your understanding of this artistic haven with well-curated tours from Tours By Locals. For instance, the "Hippie to Hipster" walks you through the changing dynamics of Mount Pleasant and is priced at $240 (£140) for a pair (001 604 777 4141; toursbylocals.com).
1pm
Savor the flavors of brunch at the esteemed Burdock & Co (14), located at 2702 Main Street (001 604 879 0077 burdockandco.com). This dining establishment enjoys pride of place among Vancouver’s most notable farm-to-table restaurants, earning it a reputation for its locally sourced ingredients that are either foraged or farmed within a 100-mile radius. With a menu featuring scrumptious treats including baked eggs, and the much-loved "eggs benny", prices hover around a reasonable $15 (£8.75)
2pm
Experience a Taste of Granville Island
Why not make the most of Granville Island's aquatic surroundings? Embark on a picturesque kayak trip around False Creek, with rentals starting at $25 (£14.60) per person through Vancouver Water Adventures (15). Alternatively, opt for a private lesson for $105pp (£61). For a more leisurely endeavor, consider the exciting City & Seal boat tour, offered at $45pp (£26). Contact them at 001 604 736 5155.
Insider Tips for Vancouver
The primary information center for visitors is conveniently located on the waterfront at Canada Place, operating daily between 9am-5pm. For more details, call them at 001 604 683 2000 or feel free to browse online on their websites: tourismvancouver.com and hellobc.com.
Did you know that Vancouver’s streets are intertwined with bike paths? Many local hotels even offer bikes for their guests to use. If not, you can always rent one from Cycle City Tours by calling them at 001 604 618 8626 or visiting their website at cyclecitytours.com.
Explore the sandy expanse of Vancouver's shorelines
Enthusiast of the past
Delve into the heritage of the region’s First Nations, showcasing totem poles, relics, and aboriginal art, all on display at the Museum of Anthropology (moa.ubc.ca).