Rest and Recharge With These Winter Road Trips

These four local destinations—Revelstoke, Boston Bar, Tofino and Salt Spring Island—are perfect for winter getaways.

Winter in Vancouver is the ideal time to get out of the busy, wet city. While it’s easy to fantasize about escaping to an all-inclusive in South America, or disappearing to a mid-century bungalow in Palm Springs, there are plenty of easy getaways within B.C. that allow you to escape.We believe in experiencing B.C. year-round, but when the seasons change, so should your tires. BC Honda dealers offer a lowest price guarantee, so it’s easy for you to pick up a pair of snow tires—and a sense of adventure—before the temperature drops. Once you’re ready to hit the open road, consider any of these four winter getaways located just a stone’s throw from Vancouver.

Revelstoke

Continuously voted one of the most spectacular skiing locations in the world, Revelstoke could soon become your new favourite “local” mountain. It’s a seven-hour drive from Vancouver, so you’ll need to prepare for wintery conditions on the Trans-Canada. Their ski-in hotel is the beautiful Sutton Place, home to four restaurants and a day spa.But if you’re looking to experience the ultimate in luxury, look no further than Bighorn. The charming brick and wooden lodge has been voted World’s Best Ski Chalet three years running, and you’ll understand why. Begin your day with a hearty Canadian breakfast served by your own personal chef, experience private heli-skiing tours and then relax in the hot tub while your four-course dinner is prepared. From action-packed ski adventures to the ultimate relaxed vacations, Bighorn offers the kind of adventures that most people only dream about.

Boston Bar

For something a little closer to home, try a getaway in Boston Bar. Ok, Boston Bar doesn’t have the greatest reputation as being a vacation destination (yet), but hear us out. It’s less than a three-hour scenic drive from Vancouver, and the newest hotel and restaurant in town also happen to be pretty hip. The Mighty Fraser Motel, and attached restaurant Fat Jack’s, are receiving rave reviews for offering a laid back, authentic Twin Peaks vibe and expertly curated wine selection in the small, charming rail town. The soft sounds of trains rolling past through the night guarantee a peaceful sleep.

Tofino

If skiing isn’t your thing, try a relaxing trip to the spa in Tofino’s famous Wickaninnish Inn. The drive can be a bit tricky in the winter, so make sure you’re equipped with new snow tires if the temperatures dip below 7*C. Set against the backdrop of rugged west coast forest, the Inn is famous for its contemporary luxury, extensive local art collection and relaxing Ancient Cedars Spa. The Spa is one of the finest in the province—their soothing seaweed wraps come from right outside! Storm-watching is a must here at the Inn; once you see their patios and hear the waves crashing, you’ll understand why.For dinner in Tofino, we recommend the Long Beach Lodge for the freshest oysters and seafood dishes. For lunch, keep it casual with local favourites Tacofino and SoBo; we recommend their cornmeal deep-fried oysters, drizzled with tequila and lime.

Salt Spring Island

A summertime favourite for relaxation and scenic beauty, Salt Spring Island is sometimes overlooked during the winter months. Visiting the spectacular Hastings House Country House Hotel, you’ll almost feel as though you’ve been transported through time and space to an English country manor—only one that happens to be nestled in the Pacific Northwest. A short ferry ride from Vancouver, the stunning manor home offers spa amenities, fine dining and an unbeatable view. Choose from rooms within the manor home or enjoy the complete privacy of your own country cottage.Forget the all-inclusive or the beach bungalow down south—B.C. has you covered. Wherever the winter months take you, just make sure you equip the right gear to get you there safely.