Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places in Canada, and the wintertime is no exception.
With its mild climate and proximity to both outdoor adventures and cultural destinations, it’s the perfect place to book a family vacation.
Looking for some ideas of what to do on Vancouver Island this winter? You don’t even have to take the ferry to have an amazing adventure. Instead, check out these activities during your next family staycation:
Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Mount Washington is a year-round recreation destination that receives some of the biggest snowfalls in North America, perfect for ensuring a powdery ride down the hill.
From easy beginner hills to difficult black diamond trails, Mount Washington is fun for every skier and snowboarder, no matter their skill level.
Not a skier? There’s also a variety of other fun outdoor activities at the resort, including snowshoeing, fat biking, and snow tubing.
If you’re looking for the perfect accommodations while visiting Mount Washington, look no further than the Travelodge by Wyndham Courtenay. Located off Route 19 on the beautiful banks of the Strait of Georgia, the pet-friendly hotel is the perfect base camp for adventure for enjoying Mount Washington.
Sidney’s Waterfront Walkway
Sidney’s Waterfront Walkway runs approximately two and a half kilometres long and offers a flat, barrier-free surface to stroll along the oceanfront, taking in the beautiful sea view.
Along the waterfront walkway, you will find benches and picnic tables, beautiful gardens and stunning views of Sidney Island, Mount Baker and more.
Sidney Museum and Archives
Take a walk through time at the Sidney Museum and discover the natural history of beautiful Sidney by the sea. Learn more about the local First Nations, industry, transportation, agriculture and social history.
Over 8,000 artifacts help give a true picture of the rich history of the seaside town.
The Travelodge by Wyndham Victoria Airport Sidney is conveniently located close to the Victoria International Airport, and main ferry terminals, offering free shuttle service for all guests.
Ladysmith Festival of Lights
Since 1987, Ladysmith has marked the holiday spirit with a spectacular light show that runs from the last Thursday in November until the second Sunday in January.
Ladysmith is known as the Light Up Capital of Vancouver Island, with over 1,000 volunteer hours going into setting up the festive decorations and 200,000 sparkling lights. It’s a can’t miss event to mark the holiday season.
Drive or walk down First Avenue to take in the lights, do some shopping, and fill your cup with the Christmas spirit.
Island spa getaways
Parksville Qualicum Beach is one of Vancouver Island’s underappreciated gems, with its charming small-town feel, beautiful sandy beaches and stunning hiking trails.
Take some time to recharge at one of Parksville’s award-winning spas.
The Grotto Spa, named the number one spa in B.C., features a spectacular warm-water mineral pool that includes a two-story waterfall, unlike anything you’ve ever seen in an indoor spa setting before.
Another notable spa option is the Stonewater spa, which offers relaxing treatments with stunning ocean views.
Winter hiking
Don’t let the cooler weather keep you off the hiking trails. Many of Parksville’s trails are open year-round, including Little Qualicum Falls, Top Bridge Park, Englishman River Falls, or Rathtrevor Beach.
Many of the hiking trails are empty in the winter months despite being open, which means you and your family can have beautiful views all to yourself.
The pet-friendly Travelodge by Wyndham Parksville near Parksville Beach allows you to enjoy fantastic local attractions at an affordable rate. With comfortable, convenient amenities, the hotel is the perfect choice for a winter family getaway.
To book your winter getaway today, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com/en-ca/travelodge.
