Chemainus
C hemainus is a quaint, seaside village located next to central Vancouver Island’s Cowichan Valley. The area features giant, old-growth Douglas fir trees and long stretches of pristine, white, sandy beaches. Visitors to Chemainus can see a huge variety of bird species and take advantage of some of the best deep sea diving on Vancouver Island. Once a rough-and-tumble mill town, Chemainus now boasts a world-class theatre, a variety of interesting shops and galleries, and the most impressive display of outdoor art in British Columbia. 40 murals and more than 13 sculptures adorn the buildings and walkways of its charming downtown. Population… 4,500 Distance from Vancouver… 93km (58mi) Distance from Richmond… 86km (53mi) Distance from...
Chilliwack
C hilliwack is a rural agricultural city with a laid-back country feel. The landscape surrounding the community is very picturesque with nearby rivers and mountains complementing the patchwork of farmers’ fields. Chilliwack has more than 900 farms that showcase the area’s specialities including dairy, poultry and berries. Foodies who enjoy tasting and learning about fresh, local food, sustainability and how the crops are grown can take a tour at many of the farms here. There are many outdoor recreation opportunities in Chilliwack, including river rafting, white-water kayaking, golfing, and sport fishing – all of which can be enjoyed year-round. The picturesque setting of Chilliwack includes many parks as well as the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve....
Delta
D elta is located on the southwest corner of BC and is bounded by either the ocean or the Fraser River on three of its four borders. The municipality consists of North Delta, Ladner and Tsawwassen, all of which are quiet communities surrounded by farms, fields or water. Delta is home to some of the most environmentally sensitive areas of Vancouver and hosts large bird sanctuaries and nature reserves. Boundary Bay and the surrounding farmlands and marshlands are major stop-overs for migrating birds travelling the Pacific Flyway and are very well-known for their excellent bird-watching opportunities. The nature reserves and oceanside parks of Delta are beautiful, quiet places in which to enjoy the outdoors. It is one of the sunniest and driest regions in the Lower...
Gibsons
G ibsons is known as the “Gateway to the Sunshine Coast,” and is located on the west shore of Howe Sound. This peninsula is primarily accessed by a 40-minute ferry ride from Vancouver giving it a relaxed, holiday atmosphere. The Sunshine Coast has more artists, crafters and artisans per capita than almost any other area in Canada. Gibsons typifies this with its casual, tranquil arts- and outdoors-focused community. The waters around Gibsons are a kayaker’s and sailor’s dream. Miles of protected waterways feature clusters of islands, numerous channels and sheltered inlets – all against a majestic mountain backdrop. Population… (2006 Census) 4,182 Distance from Vancouver… 47 km (28 mi) Distance from Richmond… 60 km (36...
Harrison Hot Springs
H arrison Hot Springs is located in the Fraser Valley at the south end of 60-km (37-mi) long Harrison Lake. The small town has a stunning setting, facing the lake’s blue waters and the forested mountains rising from its shores. This area has long been a popular holiday destination thanks to its magnificent scenery and Harrison’s namesake, the mineral-rich hot springs – the only developed hot springs close to Vancouver. The Coast Salish First Nation revered the hot springs long ago as a “healing place”. Harrison Hot Springs has a leisurely pace and shares its location in the fertile Fraser Valley with many farms. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the tastes of fresh local produce on a self-guided Circle Farm Tour. Population…...
Hope
H ope is located at the eastern end of the Fraser Valley. It sits between the Cascade and Coast mountain ranges, at the junction of the Fraser and Coquihalla rRivers. The natural features surrounding Hope make for a beautiful setting with steep mountain faces and rushing rivers in every direction. Hope is a small, quiet town whose beauty and location on the highway network make it a popular stop for travelers. Hope is well-known for the chainsaw carvings seen throughout the town and also attracts visitors to its excellent outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is near numerous provincial parks and is one of the closest communities to E.C. Manning Provincial Park, which has great snow conditions and wide range of winter activities. Population (2006...
Vancouver:
