Vancouver (5-10 days)
Vancouver is a beautiful city located in British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly people. Whether you are a foodie, an adventurer, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Vancouver has something to offer everyone.
Restaurants:
Breakfast:
Harloom Vegetarian Restaurant: This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including gluten-free and dairy-free options. Highly recommend the avocado benedict.
Breakfast Table: This restaurant serves delicious breakfast dishes, including gluten-free and vegan options. Get there early to avoid the crowds.
The only Café: This cozy café offers a variety of allergy-friendly options, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan dishes.
Lunch/Dinner:
The Acorn Restaurant: This upscale vegetarian restaurant changes its menu seasonally but always features a variety of gluten-free and vegan dishes.
Kind Café: This vegan café focuses on sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients, with a variety of gluten-free and nut-free options.
MeeT on Main: This vegan restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free and soy-free dishes, including delicious burgers and poutine.
Dessert:
Aphrodite’s Organic Pie Shop: This bakery offers gluten-free, vegan, and sugar-free pies, including some of the best blueberry and raspberry rhubarb pies you'll ever taste.
Bars:
The Roxy: This local bar features live music and various drinks, including gluten-free beer options.
Yaletown Brewing Co: This brewery offers a variety of gluten-free beer options, along with a great atmosphere.
Granville Street: This street is a must-visit destination for those looking for a night out on the town.
Hotels (Airbnb’s) in Kitsilano:
Kitsilano is a great place to stay in Vancouver, offering a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere than the city center. It has a variety of outdoor activities, including beaches, parks, bike paths, and a vibrant food and shopping scene. Its central location also allows for easy access to other areas of Vancouver. Overall, staying in Kitsilano provides a more authentic Vancouver experience while still being close to the city's main attractions.
Charming & Bright Main Floor Suite in Kits: A cozy and well-lit suite with a fully equipped kitchen and private patio in the heart of Kitsilano. Close to shops, restaurants, and the beach. Perfect for couples or small families.
Suite Dreams Vancouver Bed and Breakfast - Charming B&B in Kitsilano with cozy rooms, private bathrooms, and locally-sourced breakfast. Great location for exploring the beach and neighborhood.
Best Coach House On the West Side - Beautiful vacation rental in a quiet residential neighborhood in Kitsilano. Features a fully-equipped kitchen, comfortable living space, and private patio.
Hikes/National Parks:
Easy:
Deep Cove: This is a beautiful area to walk around, and Quarry Rock offers an easy hike with stunning views.
Whytecliff Park - This is a great hike for those looking for a more relaxed and easy hike. The park offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands and plenty of opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
Point Atkinson Lighthouse: This park offers some great trails and a beautiful view of the ocean.
Bowen Lookout - This relatively easy hike offers stunning views of Bowen Island and the surrounding ocean.
Granville Island: This market is a must-visit destination for foodies, with various allergy-friendly options. Be sure to check with vendors about their ingredients and preparation methods.
Moderate:
Joffre Lake: This popular destination offers stunning views and a refreshing turquoise lake. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Tin Hat Mountain - This overnight hike features a cabin you can stay in on the way. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Buntzen Lake: A great hike for families and those looking for a more relaxed and easy hike. The lake offers swimming, fishing, and picnicking opportunities, and there are plenty of easy trails to explore.
Eagle Bluffs - This hike offers incredible views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains. The trail can be quite steep in some sections, but the views at the top are well worth the effort.
Mount Seymour Trail - This hike offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Vancouver. The trail can be quite steep in some sections, but the views at the top are well worth the effort.
Black Tusk Hike - This challenging hike offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The trail can be quite steep in some sections, but the views at the top are well worth the effort.
Hard:
Panorama Ridge - This is an overnight hike, but it can also be done in a day if you are up for a challenge. The hike offers incredible panoramic views of Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk, and the surrounding mountains.
Stawamus Chief: This is a more challenging hike, but definitely worth it for the incredible views.
Tunnel Bluffs Hike - This hike features stunning views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. It is a moderate hike with some steep sections, but the views at the top are well worth the effort.
Howe Sound Crest Trail - This multi-day hike offers incredible views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. The trail is quite challenging and requires good physical fitness and preparation.
General Tips:
Be prepared for the weather: Vancouver can experience a wide range of weather conditions, from sunny and warm to rainy and cold. Make sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing for the conditions.
Be prepared for wildlife encounters: Vancouver is home to various wildlife, including bears, cougars, and coyotes. Make sure to bring a bear bell and bear spray to prevent and manage wildlife encounters.
Rent a car: If you plan to travel outside of Vancouver, renting a car can be a great option.
Take the Sea to Sky Highway: The Sea to Sky Highway is a scenic drive that takes you from Vancouver to Whistler. Make sure to stop along the way to take in the stunning views.
Be sure to stop at Brandywine Falls, a breathtaking waterfall just a short drive from Whistler. It is easily accessible and perfect for a day trip from Vancouver. The trail to the falls is short and easy, making it suitable for families and all skill levels. The viewing platform offers stunning views of the 70-meter waterfall and the surrounding mountains. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking for a beautiful outdoor experience.
If you're looking for a kayaking experience, I highly recommend visiting Sewell's Marina in Horseshoe Bay. This renowned marina provides kayak rentals and guided tours.
