Winter isn’t all about skiing in British Columbia, with an array of other alpine experiences easily accessible from Vancouver, including snowshoeing at Grouse Mountain. And this gorgeous city – regularly voted the world’s most liveable – has a mild climate and rarely any snow. Winter is a perfect time to explore its fascinating neighbourhoods, museums and art galleries, and shop in its fantastic independent boutiques, farmers’ markets, and many other venues.
This gives you the best of both worlds: a city break and an outdoor adventure in a gorgeous setting between ocean and mountains. We’ve picked out our favourite non-ski winter experiences in and around Vancouver, but most of the following are offered year-round.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
This is Vancouver’s most popular attraction for its combination of natural beauty, history, and family-friendly activities. After crossing the iconic bridge, you can stroll through a rainforest canopy with Treetops Adventure and take a thrilling walk above the canyon with Cliffwalk, a series of narrow walkways and platforms as high as 30 storeys above the Capilano River Canyon. Within the park, the Kia'palano has displays on the lives of British Columbia's First Nations people, including original totem poles. And in winter, Capilano’s Canyon Lights experience brings the rainforest to life with lovely illuminations.
Cycling the seawall on a guided tour
At 28km, Vancouver’s Seaside Greenway is the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world. The best bit is the Stanley Park Seawall, which is divided into two sections - one for cyclists and inline skaters, and one for walkers and joggers. Guided tours help you make the most of it; starting in Stanley Park, they take a route that showcases highlights including Stanley Park totem poles, Beaver Lake, the largest old growth maples, and Second Beach.
Harbour air sightseeing tours
Seaplane tours are a great way to see where the city, the water, and the mountains meet. You can choose anything from a 20-minute highlights flight, taking you soaring over quintessential Vancouver landmarks that include Stanley Park, English Bay, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the North Shore Mountains, to a day-long adventure going further afield to Salt Spring Island to see organic vineyards and there's even the opportunity to go whale watching in Victoria.
The food scene
Vancouver is earning a reputation as one of the world’s most unique and exciting cities in which to eat out, with an intoxicating multicultural mix of local ingredients with European and Asian influences. Must-dos before your visit include swotting up on the Michelin Guide to the city’s restaurants and booking a table at one of its Michelin-starred eateries to ensure you get to experience the fantastic dishes on offer during your stay.
At the end of January, the Dine Out Vancouver Festival, Canada’s largest annual celebration of food and drink is a very special way to discover the city’s vibrant culinary scene in all its diversity. Canada’s biggest annual food and drink festival, it brings together more than 300 restaurants offering multi-course fixed-price menus, food-focused events, and culinary experiences.
Before you travel, make sure you have applied for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The process is pretty quick and most applications are actioned within 24 hours. But to avoid unnecessary stress, it’s best to apply in plenty of time before your departure date.
To book your winter holiday in Vancouver, call your Travel Counsellor today.
Imagine the sheer delight of dipping into a crystal-clear pool, the sun glistening off the water as you take in breathtaking views. An unforgettable swimming pool can be among the highlights of your holiday, so we’ve rounded up some of our favourites, whether you’re looking for somewhere to cool down after seeing the sights or want a tranquil spot where you can relax and unwind.
Welcome to Hillside Beach Club, where unforgettable family moments are woven into every aspect of resort life. Perfectly positioned along Türkiye’s dazzling Turquoise Coast, this resort welcomes guests of all ages with open arms. With dedicated kids' clubs, spacious accommodations for families, and endless opportunities to play or relax together, Hillside Beach Club truly redefines family-friendly luxury. Whether you’re seeking shared adventures or quiet time by the sea, this is a place where families can reconnect, explore, and make lifelong memories.
Imagine waking up to the gentle breeze of pine-covered hills, gazing over shimmering turquoise waters, and spending your days in a resort surrounded by natural beauty. That’s exactly what a group of Travel Counsellors experienced at Hillside Beach Club, a paradise nestled on Türkiye’s captivating Turquoise Coast. Over a glorious long weekend, they embraced incredible food, stunning landscapes, and a packed itinerary of activities and celebrations. Here’s a peek into their unforgettable adventure and why Hillside Beach Club is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
