If you’re anything like us, you’ve been spending your time dreaming of places to explore in 2022. If you need some travel inspiration for your next trip, here are four Canadian destinations we can’t wait to visit!
CANMORE, AB
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, right on the edge of some of Canada’s most spectacular wilderness is Canmore. A small town with mountain charm, rich with historical significance and a robust arts and culture scene, Canmore has it all. There’s no better place to experience the majestic mountains, spectacular turquoise waters, ample wildlife spotting opportunities, or to relax with a craft beer or a visit to an artisanal bakery.
Stay
Solara Resort. For the perfect mountain retreat, why not treat yourself to a stay in one of Solara’s ultra-spacious condo suites, featuring full gourmet kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms that will help you make the most of your getaway.
Eat
The Market Bistro. Enjoy traditional French and Italian cuisine right in the heart of the rocky mountains. Featuring comforting, flavourful European dishes and a fabulous wine list that will warm you up even on the coldest of days.
Shop
Cafe Books. Calling all book lovers! If you’re looking for your next read or want to expand your knowledge of the area you’ll find what you’re looking for at Cafe Books. Known as Canmore’s dreamiest bookstore, this quaint, locally-owned shop features an expansive inventory with a focus on local authors and artisans.
Image Courtesy of Tank310
Drink
Tank310. Enjoy a tank-to-table experience with craft beer fresh from the taps at Tank310. Sip a pint while you take in the panoramic views of the Three Sisters, Ha Ling Peak and Mount Rundle from their expansive patio. The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company has been brewing in the Bow Valley for over 25 years and is a must-taste experience for all beer lovers.
See
Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk. Take in the views from this stunning trail, accessible right from downtown Canmore. A 4-km stretch of boardwalk will lead you through a variety of terrain, set against the stunning backdrop of the mountains. Accessible for all skill levels, this trail will lead you to some unique photo spots and offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.
GOLDEN, B.C.
An adventurer’s dream, Golden is the perfect basecamp to explore six of Canada’s stunning national parks. Nestled between three mountain ranges, there is no limit to the amount of outdoor adventure Golden offers, from snowmobiling, skiing, ice climbing, and white-water rafting, to mountain biking and hiking.
Stay
Palliser Lodge by Kicking Horse Lodging. Steps away from the village area at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Palliser Lodge offers ski-in/ski-out gondola access, pristine scenery, and rugged mountain views. These condo suites equipped with full kitchens, balconies and private hot tubs make the perfect place to launch your outdoor adventure.
Eat
Eleven22. Featuring modern comfort food made with fresh, local ingredients, you won’t want to miss Eleven22 during your visit to Golden. Upscale, yet cozy and unpretentious you’ll enjoy the inviting atmosphere of this remodelled house turned restaurant.
Image Courtesy of Art Gallery of Golden
Shop
Art Gallery of Golden. You’ll be amazed at the amount of talent found in this quiet mountain town. Browse through a selection of hand-made work of over 100 artists from the Golden region and the Columbia River basin. Explore their solo or group artist exhibits, featuring painting, photography, ceramics, and jewelry for a true western mountain culture experience.
Drink
Whitetooth Brewing Company. Refresh after a long day of adventure with one of their Belgian and West Coast-inspired beers in a wide variety of flavours. Enjoy one of their small batch beers in their bustling tasting room, or sip a brew on their patio while you take in the snowy peaks of the Purcell range.
See
Boo the Bear, at the Grizzly Bear Refuge at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Safely get to know a grizzly bear up close and personal. Boo was born in the wild, but after being orphaned as a cub, now inhabits this 20-acre natural mountain refuge. Get to know Boo, with one of his ranger guides, as he hunts, plays, forages and explores in his habitat.
KELOWNA, B.C.
KELOWNA
Known internationally for its award-winning vineyards and wines, Kelowna sits nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley surrounded by gently rolling hills and the beautiful Okanagan Lake. With long summers, and short, mild winters, Kelowna is a year-round destination for any traveller.
Stay
The Royal Kelowna. The Royal Kelowna is an all-suite hotel that backs directly onto Okanagan Lake, and features some of the largest luxury suites in Kelowna. Enjoy the sweeping views of the lake and valley from the rooftop infinity pool, or your private patio. Centrally located downtown, The Royal Kelowna is the perfect place to explore all the region has to offer.
Image courtesy of Krafty Kitchen + Bar
Eat
Krafty Kitchen + Bar. Known as Kelowna’s casual farm-to-table eatery, Krafty Kitchen + Bar features high-quality local and sustainable food. The open-concept kitchen and modern industrial interior allow you to observe the chefs at work.
Shop
Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm. A true Parisian experience in the Okanagan valley, the Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm is spectacular in spring and summer, with eight acres of rolling hills splashed with blue. Family-owned and operated since 1999, all of their products are small batch, handmade, and grown right on their farm. They grow, harvest, dry and distill over twenty aromatic plants to make their award-winning botanical products.
Drink
The Vibrant Vine. Winner of the 2013 ‘Best White Wine in the World’, The Vibrant Vine blends wine, art and music into a stunning 3D experience. Stop in for live music and a tasting of their varied wine selection. From crisp, dry whites to full-bodied reds, Vibrant Vine is an experience for any wine connoisseur.
See
Myra Canyon Park. Take a cycle ride through Myra Canyon Park, exploring the historical significance of the area as you roll along the abandoned rail line. This spectacular canyon trail will take you over 18 trestle bridges and through 2 tunnels for sweeping views of the valley and ample photo opportunities.
PARKSVILLE, B.C.
With wide ocean views set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the quiet island life of Parksville is the perfect place for you to slow down and relax.
Stay
The Beach Club. Right on the edge of the pacific ocean, The Beach Club Resort features the most luxurious hotel rooms in Parksville. Experience the sweeping ocean and mountain views from the hotel's seaside pool and hot tub, or explore the bay on a stand up paddle board, courtesy of the hotel's Stay | Well program.
Eat
Pacific Prime. Enjoy a locally-sourced meal at the Pacific Prime Restaurant on their famous beachfront patio on the Parksville Beach Boardwalk. Get cozy around one of their crackling patio fire pit tables, or experience their Beachside Dome Dining for a unique Vancouver Island dining experience.
Shop
Coombs Market. Opened in 1973 as a country market, Coombs is famously known for its grassy roofs inhabited by local goats. This little village, dotted with heritage buildings, gift and craft shops, and antique stores is not to be missed (just watch out above!)
Drink
Bespoke Spirits House. An artisan distillery located in the heart of Parksville, Bespoke Spirits House produces gin and vodka spirits that can be enjoyed in their private tasting room and lounge. Come in for a tasting or take in a gin workshop, where you can learn how to “nose” botanicals, explore flavour profiles, and create your own custom bottle of gin.
See
Englishman River. Enjoy a stroll through the island’s majestic old-growth forest, exploring 3 kilometres of gently rolling pathways that lead to the base of two waterfalls. Across a narrow gorge, the upper falls thunder down over 100 feet into a canyon below, whereas the lower falls are quieter and boast one of the most beautiful swimming holes around.
