Vancouver

Vancouver is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world – thanks above all to its setting between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific coast. The mountains are an integral part of the skyline. Ski trips to the resorts of British Columbia or heliskiing holidays in the north of the province usually begin with a short stay in this beautiful, vibrant metropolis. Quays line the entire waterfront of Vancouver’s harbour, and the sail-shaped roof of Canada Place is a legacy of the 1986 World Expo. On particularly cold days, when you would rather not spend too long outdoors, numerous museums and art galleries await you, along with the spectacular ‘Science World’. If you prefer the fresh air, simply stroll through one of the city’s many parks. Whether it’s the Chinese Garden in the heart of the city, the Botanical Garden in the south or the vast Stanley Park with the Vancouver Aquarium, linked to the north of the city by the Lions Gate Bridge – these are magical places for every nature lover.

Just 20 minutes from the city centre lies Grouse Mountain, which rises to 1230 metres. So you don’t necessarily have to travel to Whistler to ski or snowboard near Vancouver: 26 runs with breathtaking views of the Vancouver skyline are sure to delight you, and the area can also be explored on snowshoes. At the summit, adrenaline seekers whizz through the air on the zipline at up to 80 kilometres per hour, summer and winter alike – a spectacular way to experience the mountains around Vancouver. If you are coming to Vancouver for a few days, be sure to make a detour to Vancouver Island. Almost as large as Switzerland but with 10 times fewer inhabitants, this natural paradise offers an incredible range of activities: in summer you can surf, dive, climb, play golf and go mountain biking, while in winter you can go downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and ski touring. With Mount Washington, the island even has its own ski resort – a true powder paradise right by the sea.