Summer calendars are usually full of concerts, reservations, and catch ups with loved ones, but there may be the odd long weekend that you don’t quite know what to do with. If you’re still looking for some long weekend fun to look forward to, here’s our list of our favourite long weekend getaway ideas to check off your list!
1. Enjoy a local outdoor spa experience
Depending on where you live, there may be an outdoor spa experience waiting for you – just steps away from your city! Case in point: Nook Spa, located in Roberts Creek, BC, on the Sunshine Coast, is just a 20 minute drive from the Langdale ferry terminal. Nook Spa aims to bring the Nordic sauna experience to Canada – all in a digestible 90 to 120 minute period. Enjoy a hot-cold cycle between a wood-burning sauna, cold plunge pool, wood-burning hot tub, and a sitting area, perfect to enjoy a cup of local Sage tea, or some Lavender Truffles. After your hot-cold rotation, you’ll be sure to feel relaxed and rejuvenated – ready to finish your summer strong!
2. Explore local hikes
Hiking doesn’t have to be super strenuous, or take hours out of your day. More often than not, it’s the best way to explore the area you’re visiting! Do some research beforehand to find out the best hiking routes in the area you’re heading to, and based on your allotted time, you can decide how long of a hike you want to do. If you’re hiking in the woods, don’t forget to pack a full water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray with DEET, bear spray (or a bear bell), and some protein-filled snacks to tie you over, in case you get lost.
3. Find urban wineries within your city
Looking for a wine country getaway without the far drive? Local wineries are popping up almost as fast as breweries, and they’re definitely worth a visit! In the Lower Mainland, take a visit to Country Vines for a wine tasting, followed by a visit to their beautiful patio or picnic area while enjoying some live music. Feeling a little hungry? Explore Glasshouse Winery in Langley, BC for a scrumptious bite at their gorgeous in-house restaurant.
4. Take a plunge into some natural hot springs
Regardless of the weather outside, natural hot springs are always a good idea. One of our recent discoveries? Lussier Creek Hot Springs, nestled in a rock bed, located on the shore of the Lussier River. The springs are free to use; just check the BC Parks website before you plan your trip, to ensure there aren’t any advisories or closures!
If a pool is more your thing, try Radium Hot Springs, open year-round, featuring pools filled with naturally heated water, containing various minerals meant to help you relax.
5. Jam out at an outdoor concert
Believe it or not, there are more outdoor concerts in BC than you think! Between the PNE, Malkin Bowl at Stanley Park, Deer Lake Park, and all the music festivals in between, you’re bound to find an artist you love, while enjoying the best BC weather possible. Here’s a list of free outdoor concerts happening in Metro Vancouver to help you get started.
Whether you’re opting for some fun in the sun, a long hike, or just a quick day trip to visit a local winery, there are so many things to do right here in BC – especially during a long weekend! Looking to go easy on the wallet? Here are 6 things to do in Vancouver on a budget.
Enjoy your upcoming long weekends,
Linnea
