SADDLES & PADDLES

Starting in cosmopolitan Vancouver, you are off to an action-packed start. The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is one of Vancouver’s major attractions, built a vertigo-inducing 70 metres above the river. With entry to the park included, you can see the First Nations Artwork, walk in the treetops at the Cliffwalk attraction and cross the iconic bridge.

Hop on board the thrilling Skyride and go on an epic aerial journey as you ascend to Grouse Mountain’s summit, learning about local wildlife at the Theatre in the Sky.  Also included is the FlyOver Canada experience; buckle up your seat belt for another bird’s eye view of Canada, this time in a simulator. Dangled in mid-air over a 20 metre spherical screen you’ll travel, from east to west across the country.

After all that exploring, you will need a place to unwind. Where better than the luxurious Fairmont Waterfront? This sophisticated property is located right on Vancouver’s scenic waterfront and offers delicious local cuisine and a heated outdoor terrace pool.

Hop in the rental car and drive up to Ashcroft and your home for the next few days, Sundance Guest Ranch. Roll into the verdant landscapes of Ashcroft, passing alpine meadows and river canyons, and be greeted by the friendly faces at this delightful dude ranch where a herd of around a hundred horses roam freely. Sundance Guest Ranch is renowned for its incredible horse riding, with a herd of horses that range in colour, gait, size and speed. Be guided by the patient wranglers as you trot, gallop or canter through the beautiful Thompson River Valley, and in the evening, watch through the window of the lounge to see the horses galloping freely together on their daily ‘jingle’.

On top of the horse riding, all the activities during your stay are included: from hiking and river rafting to fishing and golf. There’s plenty of fun to be had at the lodge itself, thanks to its heated outdoor pool and games room. Every Saturday night (and Wednesdays in summer), a steak barbecue and country rock dance is held, so there’s plenty of entertainment at the lodge as well as adventure!

Head to the Coast Mountains, where you can make the most of the stunning mountain trails and golf courses. Get ready for an exhilarating zip-lining experience through Whistler; you’ll be whizzing over majestic creeks and a blanket of trees from above. There is a choice of five different zip-lines for all ages and abilities but no previous experience is required. You’ll also embark on an exciting bear-viewing expedition by 4x4, in an area home to a population of up to 50 black bears.

You will have the chance to spot black-tailed deer, coyote, ruffled grouse and red-tailed hawks. You’ll be staying at the Four Seasons Whistler in the Blackcomb Mountains, where you can unwind in one of the whirlpools or the outdoor heated pool and be sure to check out the glacial rain showers.

You’ll drop off your car back at Vancouver Airport and board a floatplane to the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. This region was named after its sunny climate, which locals enjoy for most of the year. Known for its forested and rock-strewn beaches, it is a region of unspoilt and rugged natural beauty including lush rainforests and the craggy shoreline of the Strait of Georgia – the perfect setting for some quality time with the family.

You’ll be staying at West Coast Wilderness Lodge, located in the charming fishing village of Egmont, in close proximity to picturesque fjords and impressive waterfalls and surrounded by green forests which provide hours of fun and exploration with the kids. For the full wilderness retreat experience, the lodge has its own fire pit for s’mores under star-studded skies in the evening. Go on a cruise by to Princess Louisa Inlet by zodiac or perhaps take a kayaking excursion into Egmont’s downtown area.

Back in Vancouver, you can catch your breath at the Fairmont Waterfront after your thrilling adventures. Take in the beautiful coastal and mountain views of Vancouver, including views of the Burrad Inlet and enjoy the hotel’s artisanal cuisine. Head to Granville Island to pick up some souvenirs or sample tasty treats from the public market.