Fall’s arrival is still fresh, but now’s the time to start thinking about your winter holiday plans.
Whether you’re daydreaming about a bustling destination in the middle of a city or nestled away on the side of a mountain, B.C. is bound to have a spot to match your vacation style. Where else in the world can you go from outdoor adventuring in the snow at Revelstoke Mountain Resort to exploring the notable restaurants and bars of Vancouver’s famed Gastown neighborhood in one province?
Without further adieu, here are a few destinations to consider for a refreshingly local™ winter in B.C. vacation experience.
Revelstoke
A skier’s paradise, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is home to the biggest vertical in North America, as well as some of the most awe-inspiring views in all of Canada. There are many ways to explore the best powder in B.C. beyond skiing or snowboarding, including dog sledding and snowmobiling. Apres ski, you can unwind with a tour of one of the local breweries and distilleries or take a dip in one of Revelstoke’s therapeutic hot springs.
After a long day of experiencing the city, unwind at the ever cozy Coast Hillcrest Hotel, where you can ease your muscles in the whirlpool, sample locally-sourced cuisine at the onsite restaurant, the Begbie Room and Mountain View Terrace, then cozy up by the fireplace at Guides Lounge or with a book in the Valley View Reading Room.
Victoria
There’s always something exciting going on at all times of the year in B.C.’s capital city. Rife with historical significance, Victoria’s downtown area alone boasts the stunning Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum, the National Historic Site of Craigdarroch Castle, and Canada’s oldest Chinatown. You can also pass the time shopping and people watching at Market Square, stopping by the unique shops at Fisherman’s Wharf, embarking on a whale watching tour, or taking a day trip to view the beautiful floral displays at Butchart Gardens.
Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina is just steps away from Victoria’s top shopping, entertainment and cultural attractions. Feast on some of B.C.’s best seafood, along with steak, chicken, and vegetarian options, at the hotel’s Blue Crab Seafood House. End the day with a splash and go for a swim at the city’s only indoor/outdoor swimming pool overlooking the harbourfront.
Nanaimo
‘The Harbour City’ on Vancouver Island’s east coast is known for its breathtaking natural landmarks and thriving cultural scene. Take a stroll along the historic waterfront parks of Pipers Lagoon and Neck Point, home to pebbled beaches and winding trails. Take a quick ferry ride to the Dinghy Dock Floating Pub on Protection Island to satisfy your appetite for fresh seafood. The Old City Quarter in the downtown core has a mix of boutiques, cafes, and museums housed in both historic and new buildings. The number one destination for shopping in Nanaimo, the Old City Quarter, is worth a stop.
Perched right on Nanaimo’s scenic downtown waterfront, Coast Bastion Hotel offers awe-inspiring harbour and ocean views from every room and suite – and a few rooms even include bubbling jetted tubs overlooking the water!
Prince George
Northern B.C.’s biggest city has much to offer in terms of big adventures. Depending on your mood, you can catch a live performance play at Theatre NorthWest. Astronomy novices and experts can explore the stars at the Prince George Observatory. Those in the mood for a more heart-pounding adventure can visit Hart Ski Hill, located within the city limits. History buffs may be interested in a day trip out to Barkerville Historic Town to explore over 125 heritage buildings. For those with a love for nature should take a trip to the Ancient Forest. Waterfalls and 1,000 year old giant cedars will leave you awe-struck.
Positioned in the city’s downtown district, Coast Prince George Hotel has many amenities to round out your stay, including a fitness centre, an indoor pool, the Pepper Tree Hair Studio, and signature dining options such as Shogun Japanese Steakhouse and Winston's Resto-Bar.
Kelowna
The reflection of the snow-dusted mountains on Okanagan Lake encapsulates the magic of Kelowna in the winter, and there’s no shortage of things to do during these colder months. Lace up your skates for a glide around the free outdoor ice rink at Stuart Park. Take a winter hike at Knox Mountain Park and experience amazing views of Kelowna and the valley. Sip on seasonal beers and ciders at one of Kelowna’s many unique craft breweries. Find local products, food and drink, listen to music or partake in the numerous family activities at the Winter Street Market. Hit the mountains at the neighbouring Big White Ski Resort and SilverStar Mountain Resorts. Skiing, snowboarding, skating and tubing can all be enjoyed about an hour away from the city.
Coast Capri Hotel is within walking distance to Okanagan Lake and is steps aways from Kelowna’s downtown district. The hotel provides extraordinary hospitality and amenities, such as a heated outdoor pool, or partake in some self-care with therapeutic treatments at the Beyond Wrapture Day Spa, conveniently located in the hotel.
Chilliwack
Chilliwack is home to some of B.C.'s most beautiful natural attractions – including Bridal Veil Falls, Cultus Lake, and Chilliwack Lake. From hiking and snowshoeing to steelhead fishing and eagle watching, the outdoor possibilities are endless, even in the winter months.
Surround yourself with nature’s wonders in downtown Chilliwack at Coast Chilliwack Hotel, where you can take a seat at the pondside patio, have a bite at Prestons Restaurant + Lounge, and admire the sweeping views of the Fraser Valley.
Vancouver
Winter is the best time to have a Vancouver staycation and really experience and appreciate what the city has to offer. The Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA, located in the heart of downtown, is walking distance from sites, including the Vancouver Convention Centre, Stanley Park, Robson Street, and Gastown. During your hotel stay, sample fresh fare at Prestons Restaurant + Lounge and embrace the Japanese art of omotenashi at Sanatio Spa, for a refreshingly local B.C. winter vacation.
In celebration of their 50th anniversary year, Coast Hotels is running a sweepstakes (in partnership with Molson Coors Beverage Company) that will award over 140 exciting prizes — including one grand prize of a ski weekend for 4!
Sign-up at coasthotels.com/50th-anniversary-sweepstakes for your chance to win. The contest runs until December 31, 2022 and the winners will be announced in January 2023.
