May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Sightseeing Tours
Our trip from Clearwater Lake to the Bella Coola area was an amazing journey through majestic mountains. The famous Bella Coola “Hill” is a great adventure but do make sure that you have good breaks and enjoy the ride! This was my first trip to Bella Coola and I wish that I had more time to take advantage of the recreational opportunities in the area. The docks are filled with fishing boats and active fisherman and an old Cannery.
Bella Coola has a very unique water fall with a very smooth rock surface, Clayton Falls which is located at the end of Highway 20 this is a must see. I can not wait to return to Bella Coola it is BC's hidden gem.
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Bella Coola, Accommodation
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During our trip to the Bella Coola we had a great breakfast at the Eagle Lodge. We were given a tour of the lodge and found that there is room for everyone. My favorite was the Deans Room there is also a Hot Tub at the Lodge for those that wish to look out at the amazing scenery. The owners are quite knowledgeable with the history of the area.
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Accommodation
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The Clearwater Lake Lodge is absolutely stunning the surreal location is quite like something out of a fairytale. The lodge is situated on Clearwater Lake in amongst the mountains in Kleena Kleene, BC. The Luxurious Chalet offers Fine Dining with locally grown organic products and a fully licensed restaurant “Gisela’s Kitchen”. I have stayed at quite a few Lodges and by far Gisela’s cooking surpasses them all, the meals were by far one of the best features at the lodge. The couple is quite hospitable and each room includes your own bathroom there is also the option to stay in one of two cabins and or to bring your own tent or RV. There are plenty of picnic tables for everyone, my favourite tables are situated on the dock over looking the lake. Gisela and Bernward also offer outdoor BBQ’s on the dock during the spring and summer months.
During our stay Bernward took us for a wonderful hike in the morning to see an Osprey Nest, the countryside was absolutely beautiful with a mixture of sand and trees surrounded by mountains. Gisela packed us a great picnic lunch for our afternoon tour where we went to Tatlayoko Lake known for its great windsurfing conditions. From the lake you see snow capped mountains, three mountains in particular, Mt. Waddington, Silverthorne Mountain and Monarch Mountain. We continued on our journey to the Tatlayoko Valley where Bluff Lake is located. Berward noted that the movie Seven days in Tibet starring Brad Pitt was partially filmed by Bluff Lake. Bernward showed us where Brad Pitt had climbed during the filming of the movie.
Combined with cozy accommodations, stunning views, excellent food and friendly owners this Lodge has it all. A must see for anyone traveling to the Chilcotin region. If you do not have too much time to spare the best way to get to the Lodge is by Floatplane you are able to catch the plane in Vancouver. Say Hello to Gisela and Bernward for me and enjoy your trip!
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Anahim Lake, Guest Ranches & Horseback Riding
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The setting is like something out of a Western movie, the ranch is situated amongst rolling desert hills. The family is extremely friendly and for those that are interested in becoming more self-sufficient this family can give you some valued input on how to do it.
Get your hands a little dirty while learning how to handle a horse in a safe environment with an exceptional instructor. I had Houdini for the day, this white beauty was one of a kind & can actually pick locks with his teeth... Outside of the accommodation area there is one of the largest fire pits that I have seen in BC so far. The Chezacut area is desert like with warm winds during the summer months.
The lodge is approximately 7.3 miles up from Redstone do keep track of the miles as it is easy to miss. The Ranch is on the left hand side of the road and you will find yourself turning off the main road. Cowboy hats are provided upon request!
May 11, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
100 Mile House, Accommodation
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I found a little R & R while staying at the Hills, nestled in the mountains with an amazing back drop I enjoyed the tranquil setting. I also enjoyed my dinner it was a FUNDO... aka FONDUE where we had a mix of seafood and steak and to finish it off a great chocolate fondue. It was nice to see that each menu item had a breakdown of calories.
It was hard to experience everything with only one night to spare but I can see how many people come and stay for weeks at a time. The owners and staff are extremely friendly and easy to talk to. Personally I will be going back to try their Hot Rock Massage as my fellow travel buddy really enjoyed her experience.
May 08, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Vancouver, Hiking
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The south Needle is one of three peaks known as The Needles, on the ridge that runs from Lynn Peak to Coliseum Mountain. Best accessed from Hydraulic Creek in the LSCR.
This is a a challenging day hike with a difficult and moderately exposed section on the final ridge. It is also one of the least visited and most rewarding low-altitude peaks on the North Shore. In winter, ice axe and crampons are recommended.
May 08, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Sechelt, Dining
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A group of us went to the Lighthouse the other night to watch Game 3 of the Canucks/Black Hawks series. The Lighthouse is well known for its huge outdoor patio with stunning panoramic views of Porpoise Bay, but we were there to watch the game. They've got lots of HD TV's and the playoff atmosphere was great.
The Lighthouse offers a pretty good menu - I ordered the Mariner Mussels, a huge platter of succulent mussels steamed to perfection in a white wine cream sauce. My wife ordered El Pollo Loco, a very large grilled chicken breast with melted mozza & red pepper mayo. The Beer Battered Fish & Chips was a popular order at our table and with good reason - the order comes with two very large fish fillets allowing couples to split the plate between them. The Special for the night also made a grand appearance at our table - Build your own Fajitas, served in a sizzling pan and exuding wonderful smoky aromas.
It was a great night, the Canucks won the game!
May 07, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Kelowna, Car / Truck / Motorcycle
The start with I found the bussle far less then a big windy city (Toronto, Edmonton, Ottawa etc) and the 'natives' are very helpful and friendly. We spent 4 wonderful weeks there from mid August until mid September 2008.
The wineries, the view of mountains and lakes, the boating, and the attitude of people in accomodating tourist was very relaxing and was so attractive that we are now looking for property in order to build.
We stayed in Lake Country just NW of Winfield and welcomed the access to the hills (my legs still hurt at the thought) and the history (such as the origins of the vinyards and of the deserted railroad in the mountains South East of the city of Kelowna).
Amenities (like the YMCA) were convenient and very clean and efficiently run as were the theatres, the Bee facilities (near Vernon I think) and the ski hills at Big White (we were there in Jan 07) and the artistic exhibits. Also what wonderful architecture and waht appears to be sensible city planning.
There is a most welcome atmosphere of cooperative pride and cautious friendliness that lets a visitor feel very comfortable and welcome without feeling harassed.
Next visit I would like to meet more of the local leaders and to be able to experience more of the local culture such as the outdoor live music concerts near to Winfield. They were a major hit for our brief stay.
May 07, 2009 | Tips from Travellers >
Victoria, Sightseeing Tours
Find more information about Victoria - Sightseeing Tours
Tessa Cheri explores Victoria's hidden gems. Whether you're travelling to Victoria or a current resident, you need to see this!
May 07, 2009 | Tips from Us >
Queen Charlotte City, Car / Truck / Motorcycle
The Queen Charlotte Visitor Centre is gearing up for a busy tourist season! We are now open 9-5pm - closed on Wednesday and Thursday. We are a great place to get local and regional information. Come in and relax watch a video use the internet and shop for local arts and crafts.