Pemberton
P emberton is located in the fertile Pemberton Valley, just 30 minutes from Whistler, Host Mountain Resort for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The town is surrounded by the towering Coast Mountains and visitors will find aquamarine lakes and rushing rivers nearby to complete a truly spectacular backdrop. While farming is a mainstay of this community and it is especially famous for its seed potatoes among other crops, the area is fast becoming an outdoor recreation destination. In winter, the area around Pemberton is a popular venue for snowshoeing and snowmobiling, as well as cross-country, backcountry and heli-skiing. The nearby Pemberton Ice Cap, a vast glacial area, is famous for its snowmobiling opportunities. Population (2006 Census)…...
Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge
M aple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are approximately one hour east of Vancouver in an agricultural district on the Fraser River. The communities sit in the southern reaches of the Coast Mountains and are set against a backdrop of pretty meadows, lakes, streams and rivers. The twin summits of Golden Ears Mountain rise majestically above Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, affording stunning views from just about anywhere in the area. Both cities charm with their unique combinations of urban amenities, small-town lifestyle and rural surroundings. Visitors can take advantage of great outdoor recreation opportunities in the cities’ immediate surroundings. Population (2006 Census)… 84,572 Distance from Vancouver… 39 km (24 mi) Distance from Richmond… 46 km...
Qualicum Beach
Q ualicum Beach is a seaside community in Central Vancouver Island known for its award-winning gardens, quaint village atmosphere and safe, sandy beaches. With one of the highest concentrations of Provincial Parks on Vancouver Island, Qualicum Beach also offers great outdoor leisure opportunities. This peaceful, quiet town is favoured by retirees and those escaping the hustle and bustle of life elsewhere. Leisurely morning strolls are a popular way of enjoying the pretty, pedestrian-friendly streets, lush, well-tended gardens and sweeping ocean views. Qualicum Beach hosts a very vibrant arts scene, great hiking, birding and fishing, numerous spas and plenty of child-friendly tours and attractions. Population (2006 Census)… 8,502 Distance from...
Saanichton
S aanichton is located in the middle of the Saanich peninsula on Vancouver Island halfway between British Columbia’s capital, Victoria and Sidney, the major seaside community on the peninsula. Saanichton is just 10 minutes from Swartz Bay ferry terminal, one of the Island’s very busy departure points for travel to the mainland. The village of Saanichton is well known for its prized flowers and rose gardens, and its outlying farmland surrounds. The town has a winning combination of rural and urban lifestyles with modern homes and riding stables nestled alongside parks, campgrounds, old-growth forests and small farms. Population (2006 Census)… 10,823 Distance from Vancouver …94 km (56 mi) Distance from Richmond… 86 km (52 mi) Distance...
Sechelt & Pender Harbour
S echelt is located on the Sunshine Coast, a temperate stretch of mainland coastline accessible only by vehicle ferry. The town sits on a narrow strip of land separating the Sechelt Inlet from the Strait of Georgia. Sechelt is restful and quiet with incredibly serene and beautiful surroundings. Among its attractions are a vibrant artistic community, salmon fishing and plentiful outdoor leisure opportunities. The mild winters here mean visitors can enjoy a huge range of activities on Sechelt’s tranquil waters all year round. The area is particularly famed for its kayaking with paddlers relishing the miles of placid inlets leading to waterfalls, cliffs and plentiful wildlife. Population (2006 Census)… 8,454 Distance from Vancouver… 69 km (41...
Sidney
S idney is located on the Saanich Peninsula of southern Vancouver Island. Many of the South Island’s top attractions, including the world-famous Butchart Gardens, are nearby. An artsy, seaside community, Sidney also has a country feel with its surrounding parks, nature reserves and farms. Strolling the waterfront walkway is a popular way for residents and visitors to soak in the town’s relaxed atmosphere. Sidney Island, the San Juan Islands and Mt. Baker in Washington State are clearly visible from here on most days. Sidney is the commercial hub of the peninsula. It offers a wide range of shopping, tour operators, visitor services and recreational facilities, and still maintains a slow-and-easy pace. Population (2006 Census)… 11,315 Distance from...
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