Off the Beaten Path in Western Canada
Guest post by CanadaStays
Western Canada is home to some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world. While most visitors flock to the most popular destinations across the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, many of the region’s hidden gems remain undiscovered for travellers coming from outside the region, or other parts of the world.
As a vacation rental marketplace, we’ve uncovered some of the top destinations recommended by travellers local to the regions, along with tips for the best activities and attractions that you won’t find in your typical travel guide. Here are some of our top picks in Western Canada:
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
With some of the sunniest weather in British Columbia, the Okanagan Valley is a great spring and summer destination for wine lovers. The region is made up of cities that line the shores of Okanagan Lake and is home to British Columbia’s top wineries.
If you’re passing through Osoyoos, be sure to check out the Desert Model Railroad. This massive train display has been a work in progress for almost 20 years. You’ll find over 50 model trains running through backdrops inspired by global scenes and architecture. It’s a definite must-see for train junkies!
Kelowna may be popular for skiing in the winter, but it’s also just as packed in the summer. If you’re tired of wading through the crowds at the most popular beaches, take the time to visit some more secluded lakeside areas. Those in the know love the Bertram and Raymer Bay Regional Parks. When you’re ready to cool down with a beer, head to the “secret” speakeasy Bar Norcino. To find this prohibition-era gem, head to Curious Café and request to be escorted to the speakeasy.
The town of Penticton is the perfect place to give your wallet a break with many free activities. Check out the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory which offers free tours throughout the year. Or grab a floatie and spend the day floating along the 7 km Penticton River Channel.
Victoria, British Columbia
If you’re heading to Victoria this summer, why not venture off the beaten path?
Visit Chinatown and discover the secret gems hiding in this district. Head to the north side of Fisgard Street to find Dragon Alley, which is almost as mythical as it sounds. You’ll find plenty of unique shops and restaurants to keep you entertained all day.
Victoria is characterized by its easy-to-miss quirks. While they may not be considered ‘attractions’, the purple, glass-paved, sidewalks on Johnson Street are a wonderful insta-worthy find.
For more great photo ops, head to Thunderbird Park. People often visit the Royal BC Museum and pass the park without stopping to see the First Nations art pieces, including an impressive collection of totem poles.
If you’re visiting in the peak summer season, stop by one of the downtown markets, which are a great way to experience Victoria’s culture. They can be easy to miss as the dates vary and they aren’t as heavily publicized as some of Victoria’s larger attractions. The two you really want to look out for are the Bastion Square Market and the Ship Point Night Market.
Banff National Park, Alberta
Banff is filled with endless natural adventures. Most tourists know a handful of the famous destinations in the area. But beyond Lake Louise and Lake Moraine Lake, there are many smaller lakes that are reachable only by foot.
If you’re up for a hike, you can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of lonely forest trails. Take the long trek to Taylor Lake for a rugged Banff excursion. A tough hike of about four hours will lead you through the forest to a glacial lake adorned with breathtaking cascades.
Or, skip the lakes altogether and make a day out of discovering Castle Lookout. This requires a longer hike of four hours, with an elevation gain of over 500 meters. The end — and the views — are worth the trek.
Even the popular Lake Louise, however, has its hidden gems. A quick walk from the edge of Lake Louise brings the observant traveler an unforgettable view of the undeveloped and deliciously lonely Peyto Lake.
If you’re looking for good eats to offset the hiking, Canmore has a few well-kept foodie destinations of its own. You can’t beat the croissants at Le Fournil, or the katsu plates at Chaya.
Fernie, British Columbia
Photo Credit: Tourism Fernie
Fernie is a popular ski town that can sometimes get overlooked by those outside the region during the warmer months. If you’re an avid hiker or runner, the forested area around Fernie is full of great running and hiking trails. If you’re there on the right weekend, you might even be able to join a trail run event.
If you’d rather explore indoors, visit the Fernie Museum, where you can learn all about Fernie’s history and culture. Did you know the town has burned to the ground and been rebuilt twice?
When visiting Fernie, you can’t miss the Arts Station. This was once the town railroad station, but is now filled with art forms ranging from theatre to paintings. Plan ahead and you can catch an indie movie showing, or a feature art exhibit.
Tofino, British Columbia
Those who have made the journey to Tofino have fallen in love. Being a little harder to access, it’s not as popular with the summer crowds as some of the other destinations on this list. That’s precisely one of things that makes Tofino such an unforgettable place. The lack of crowds make this charming frontier town on Vancouver Island feel completely wild and free.
If you’re a surfer, this is your ideal Canadian destination. A surf town through and through thanks to the great swells, Tofino was named the best surf town in North America in Outside Magazine’s 2010 Editors’ Choice awards. One of the best places to go is the little-known Hot Springs Cove. This isn’t an easy or inexpensive place to get to, but it’s more than worth it for the remote surfing experience and the open waves.
For those who prefer to keep their feet solidly planted on earth, Tofino offers plenty of hiking opportunities. One of the coolest hikes in Tofino is the crash site of the RCAF Canso Flight 11007. This World War II plane crashed in the woods, and it’s been there ever since. This hike isn’t mapped in travel books, but plenty of local blogs can help you locate the right trail.
Calgary, Alberta
From the cultural vibe to the sports scene, Canada’s 3rd largest city is not to be missed. Best know for the Calgary Stampede, which is part rodeo, part country fair, and part foodie heaven, Calgary is also home to many other hidden gems that stampede visitors often miss.
One local favorite is Hexagon Boardroom Café. Come for the drinks and stay for the games. There are literally hundreds (possibly thousands) of board games filling the café’s shelves! Grab your favorite and enjoy a fun afternoon with friends.
Voltage Creative Garage is the kind of place you always expect to find in some of the more artsy areas of a big city, but never quite manage to find. Fortunately for you, we have the address: 2101 34 Avenue Southwest. Head here to free your creative side, or just let the artists do their thing while you capture photos of the many colorful murals.
Where to Stay?
Wherever you decide to go, you can find accommodations off the beaten path by renting a private cabin or vacation rental. Visit CanadaStays for the largest selection of vacation rentals in Canada, and find your perfect stay.
