Family & Valentine Getaways.
February 04 2022, Mercedes-Benz Vancouver
Thinking of taking a romantic Valentine’s getaway or family-friendly escape this February? Look no further than these recommendations, perfect for a cold-weather road trip.
Destination: Vancouver Island
Resort: Fairmont Empress, Victoria
Situated on Victoria’s inner harbour, the castle-like Fairmont Empress is the most iconic property on Vancouver Island, and after completing a $60-million restoration in 2017, the historic hotel gleams brighter than ever. After choosing from 464 unique guest rooms and suites, make sure to book a seat at their famous Afternoon Tea, then indulge in a treatment at the Willow Stream Spa. Don’t leave without ordering a lavender-coloured cocktail from the award-winning bar, Q at the Empress, with its locally crafted namesake purple gin, the Empress 1908. Here, everything is at your doorstep— from downtown shops to waterfront strolls—providing you want to leave the room, that is.
Destination: Gulf Islands
Resort: Bodega Ridge & Bodega Cove, Galiano Island
Beloved for destination weddings and unique getaways alike, Bodega is located on the north end of this stunning Gulf Island, and operates two separate properties just a 10-minute walk from each other. The newest, Bodega Cove, is an idyllic seaside retreat with modern one-bedroom cabins—think large skylights, designer Bocci lighting, and heated marble floors in the bathrooms—that are perfect for nature-loving couples. The original, Bodega Ridge, has seven self-contained log cabins for rent; these are better for families and each sleeps up to six guests. Dine on-site at the excellent counter-service restaurant, Nimma Nimma, and indulge in the rustic-elegance of this much-loved property.
Destination: Okanagan
Resort: Watermark Beach Resort, Osoyoos
Bring the whole family on a road trip to this waterfront resort on the shores of Osoyoos Lake, which has won numerous accolades for its family-friendly environment. Choose from a traditional guest room (great for couples), or opt for an entire two-bedroom beachfront townhome (perfect for families), with a kitchen and access to all the hotel’s amenities. Dine at the delectable 15 Park Bistro, then cosy up with some games and movies, available through the hotel’s front desk, or visit an Okanagan winery if you’re feeling adventurous.
Destination:Whistler
Resort: Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside
If you and your significant other are avid skiers or snowboarders, or simply crave the excitement of Whistler’s snow-adventure offerings, you best book into one of the most enviable locations in Whistler at the Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside. The World Ski Awards recently awarded Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside the title of Canada’s Best Ski Hotel for the ninth year in a row. Indeed, both of the area’s Pan Pacific properties —Whistler Village Centre and Whistler Mountainside—conveniently offer suites with fully outfitted kitchens, a luxurious in-room fireplace, and private balconies for those who prefer to cosy up and take in the views.
Destination: Kootenays
Resort: Bighorn, Revelstoke
Whether you're packing up your extended family or a few favourite friends, book into the timber-framed chalet of your dreams at the base of Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Available for minimum week-long rentals, this award-winning private lodge has eight stately rooms, access to world-class heli-skiing by day, and meals prepared by private chefs at night. Feel like dinner in an elegant formal dining room? Your wish is granted. More inclined toward a casual night watching the chef cook on a teppanyaki grill in a state-of-the-art kitchen? You can do that, too. There’s also a pool, sauna, outdoor hot tub, gym, bar, pool room, and games library. You may want to book in for two weeks!
Honourable Mention: BC Ferries Vacations has some incredible deals this February, including family-specific specials and Vancouver Island romantic retreat packages. These bundles include fabulous rates on accommodation, ferry reservations, room upgrades, gas gift cards, and more. Book and travel by February 25, 2022 to take advantage of these monthly specials.
Photo Credit: Chris Thorn Photography
Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special someone, or craving a road trip with the family, treat yourself to a cold-weather adventure this month. And, before you leave, don’t forget your winter tires!
