As much as we fell in love with Vancouver Downtown, we could see the country without a mini road trip through the Just don’t leave Region British Columbia. Vancouver is ideal for short excursions into nature, as Canada’s wilderness begins right outside the city gates.
After a little research, it was clear: our road trip should from Vancouver to Whistler, the Olympic Village 2010, to lead. Ready for what is probably the most spectacular day trip of our travel blogger existence so far?
1. Capilano Suspension Bridge What it feels like to be on a free swinging rope bridge in 70 meters high over a raging river? Pretty shaky, we can promise! The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver attractions and is located downtown in the ” North Shore”. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is part of the park of the same name – you could also call it an amusement park. So don’t expect a secluded wilderness, although the nature is really impressive.
Another important tip for visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge The impressive suspension bridge is probably the most photographed sight in all of Vancouver. This means that you should come either very early or very late, especially in high season, to avoid the crowds as much as possible (check the website for current opening times). We were there first thing in the morning, but then postponed our visit to late afternoon due to the rain.
2. Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish Now get out of town! We follow the impressive Sea to Sky Highway north. The sea to our left, the mist-shrouded mountains to our right – and us? We are hooked on this breathtaking landscape from the first moment. We had already expected that Canada’s nature should be quite impressive. But we didn’t expect such views and that only a few kilometers after the city limits.
Den The first stop (apart from countless “stop-a-brief-I-have-to-take-a-photo-stops” once) we make after about an hour in Squamish. The reason: We are drawn to the mountains! With the Sea to Sky Gondola we break through the stubborn blanket of fog. Arriving at the summit, on a nice day you can enjoy an impressive distant view of the mountain panorama of British Columbia. Unfortunately, we have to let our imagination run wild during our visit, because the mountain peaks only sparkle every now and then out of the fog. Fortunately, the distant view is not the only reason for our visit: the suspension bridge on the mountain top is in no way inferior to its little sister in Vancouver.
A little more information about visiting the Sea to Sky Gondola The ride with the Sea to Sky Gondola to Summit Lodge only takes about 10 minutes. A round trip costs about 48$ and is worth every penny. We also tested the restaurant on the mountain summit and were surprised by the good quality of the food. Once at the top you can choose from several hiking trails. Allow about 2 hours for your visit if you don’t want to stress yourself.
3. Alta Lake Is that a ray of sunshine, flashing out of the clouds? If Canada teaches us anything, it’s that the weather changes every hour at 180 degrees turn can. While our fingers were about to freeze at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola, we’re enjoying the spring weather on the shores of Alta Lake near Whistler.
We really wanted to stop at a lake and we decided to do so decided on Alta Lake. Despite the proximity to Whistler , the lake is very idyllically situated. Another plus point for us: you can park your car almost directly at the lake.
4. Olympic Village Whistler And suddenly we are standing in front of the five metal Olympic rings. Whistler Mountain, British Columbia – Venue of the Olympic Winter Games 2010. Wow! We didn’t really plan it, but now that we’ve come this far, we definitely wanted to visit the former Olympic Village as well.
A very likeable Center developed with a promenade, cafes and shops . By the way, we are also a bit nostalgic, because unfortunately we don’t have enough time for a ride on the “PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola”. “This is a MUST”, the Canadian Kenneth preached to us the day before. If you can believe his statements, then a ride on the cable car has to be one of the most impressive mountain experiences ever. sigh. Next time! This part of Canada will definitely not be the last time we will be seen – that’s for sure.
5. Cypress Mountain Lookout A bit sad and at the same time overwhelmed by the natural beauty of Canada, we start our homeward journey. And although we do this the same way we came, the picture is entirely new. Driving from the other side on the Sea to Sky Highway you have completely new views of the imposing, snow-covered mountain landscape.
In time before sunset we reach the viewpoint on Cypress Mountain – the mountain in front of the city gates, from which one has a panoramic view of Vancouver. The only drawback: You definitely need your own car, because there are no public buses going to the Lookout. Just follow Cypress Bowl Road uphill. The lookout is on the right halfway to Cypress Mountain Ski Area.
Car Rental & Parking: More Tips for a Whistler Day Trip from Vancouver British Columbia is very easy to travel on your own . As always, we booked our rental car through Sunny Cars. The advantage: When booking via Sunny Cars, you receive fully comprehensive insurance. This means: In the event of damage, your deductible will be reimbursed and you can enjoy the road trip with a clear conscience. (Someone actually scratched our car before and Sunny Cars refunded us the deductible without any problems.)
You can choose the smallest car class with a clear conscience. Cars in Canada, like in the US, tend to be oversized and extremely comfortable. The prices for a rental car are quite moderate: the red Ford in the photo got us for 40 hours just 40 Euro cost. In addition there were about 40 Euros for refueling (for the route described above).
Parking in Vancouver is available either in multi-storey car parks or on the street. In downtown Vancouver, there is usually only “metered parking” on the street, i.e. fixed parking spaces, each with a parking meter. Have enough change with you for this. The cost varies by neighborhood and time of day.
You can find more of our Vancouver blog articles here Our journey to Vancouver {Or: The beginning of our love for Canada} Vancouver Tips {Our 50-Hour City Guide} Our favorite cafés in Vancouver {tips for breakfast, coffee & Co.} Transparency: Affiliate Links & Press Trip This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we will receive a small commission. For you, this does not change the price at all. cool thing right? We were invited to a press trip to Vancouver by TUI and Tourism Vancouver. Many thanks for the many helpful tips and the great organization.
Have you already done a day trip from Vancouver to Whistler or even a road trip through Canada? We look forward to hearing about your experiences and tips!
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