Squamish Grows Up

Less than an hour’s drive north of Vancouver, Squamish has long been considered Whistler’s distant cousin—that little town where one might grab a cup of java before heading to their final destination. No longer! Squamish has grown up and many locals will tell you that since the Sea to Sky Gondola opened its doors in May 2014 it has put Squamish firmly on the map as an internationally acclaimed top travel destination (so much so, the New York Times’ list of 52 Places to Go in 2015 touted it as a “must-see locale”). —Michelle Hopkins

stay. Under a canopy of firs, hemlocks, cedars and pines, Sunwolf Resort’s riverside, Internet-free zone cabins offers serenity to those who yearn to slow the hectic rhythms of daily life. Capturing the rustic and rugged beauty of Squamish, lull yourself to sleep to the sounds of the rushing Cheakamus River. The resort features 10 quaint one-bedroom cabins and, for larger groups, a delightfully converted Fisherman’s Cottage. There is also a communal fire pit and hot tub. sunwolf.net

savour. Sunwolf’s Fergie’s Café is considered by locals and visitors alike as the “in spot” for the best breakfast and brunch in town—for good reason. Using locally sourced mostly organic free-range ingredients, this joint’s famous for its avocado eggs bennie, buttermilk biscuits, muffins and pulled pork hash. A recent trailer expansion showcasing rustic chic décor complete with whitewashed reclaimed wood on the ceiling, walls and floors and real wood-burning fireplace, is the perfect place to enjoy a great meal (or just eat al fresco at a picnic table under the big shady trees). sunwolf.net/fergies

sweat. The cure for most anything that ails is fresh mountain air. In Squamish, if you love to face your fear of heights, then you have to attempt Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures’ Via Ferrata at the Sea to Sky Gondola. Translated to "iron path" in Italian, the VF is a mountain route with ladders, bridges and a series of metal cables and iron rungs fixed into the stone (best of all, no climbing experience is required). Your adventure with a 10-minute ascent taking you 2,900 feet above sea level into the clouds to the state-of-the-art Summit Lodge. Then, after a safety meeting, find yourself metres below the craggy summit, wind whipping your hair under your helmet as you climb the rock face toward the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Upon reaching the summit, look down at the breathtaking alpine scenery below and feel the sheer exhilaration of success. mountainskillsacademy.com

sup. After tackling the Via Ferrata head over to the cafeteria style Summit Eatery and Edge Bar to refuel with a Three Rivers’ juicy, messy burger and fries (no guilt—you just burned off some serious calories). On a sunny day, the outdoor patio is the idyllic spot to partake in some good local cuisine while bathing in views of Howe Sound, Squamish and the Coast Mountains. If it’s chilly, no worries; there are plenty of blankets and even a few fire pits. seatoskygondola.com