If you’re looking for a last-minute getaway this Labour Day, we’ve got a few of British Columbia’s most luxurious spots on our hot list of places to visit. The short travel distance means more time to hit the spa, lounge, and dine.

Sonora Resort

Accessible via helicopter or seaplane from Vancouver, or a water taxi from Campbell River, Sonora Resort’s secluded nature ensures a true “getaway from it all” atmosphere. From the welcome drink upon arrival to the luxurious spa and accommodations, the only rival to this beauty is the breathtaking, pristine nature of the surroundings that awaits you. Feeling adventurous? Guided salmon fishing, grizzly bear and helicopter glacier tours are available.

Echo Valley Ranch and Spa

Just a few hours northeast of Vancouver in Jesmond, BC lies Echo Valley Ranch. 160 acres of ranchland offers up horseback riding, hiking, biking and fishing before a night’s rest in one of their well-appointed rooms or private cabins. Serving up luxury dining, family style from their own organic garden and farm game, Echo Valley’s dining experience is one-of-a-kind.

Clayoquot Wilderness Retreat

Miles away from civilization, the Clayoquot Wilderness Retreat on Vancouver Island is grown-up camping at its best. Their luxury tents feature full ensuite bathrooms with heated floors and opulent decor. Choose from hot springs, a day at the spa, or various wilderness adventures and finish off with 5-star dining to complete this “camping” excursion like no other.

Poets Cove Resort and Spa

Tucked in the southern end of Pender Island, Poets Cove Resort and Spa is the quintessential west coast accommodation, featuring a private marina and unique spa treatments. Relax in either their private villas, cottages, or lodge rooms and spend your afternoons being pampered at the spa or out on the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

There’s nothing like the Sea to Sky drive to Whistler on a beautiful, BC day. It may not be slope season, but Whistler is still a divine spot for some R+R. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler at the base of Blackcomb Mountain is what you’d come to expect from the luxe Fairmont family of hotels. Expect world-class service, plush rooms, and high tea.

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Photo: Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

Far from the Monday - Friday grind that usually populates your To Do list, try one or a combination of our long weekend must-do’s in celebration of BC Day Monday, August 1st.

R + R Starts Here

Indulge in Patio Season! We rounded up our favourite summer outdoor dining spots in a recent post, and there’s something for everyone on the list. From chill late night eateries featuring the best in west coast cuisine to people-watching meccas and patios showcasing views for miles, you could spend all weekend dining outdoors.

To Be or Not To Be

Get your culture on at Western Canada’s premiere Shakespeare festival and catch a show at Bard on the Beach in Vanier Park. With breathtaking sunset water and mountain views behind the main stage, you’ll never experience anything else like it. On the programme for this year is The Merry Wives of Windsor, Romeo and Juliet, Othello and Pericles.

Sip Your Way to Satisfaction

Play tourist in your own town the grown-up way with the Craft Beer ‘n Bites Tour. Hosted by Vancouver Food Tour which was founded by Local Entrepreneur of the Year 2011, Melody Fury, you’ll sip your way through Gastown’s craft beer scene tasting the best on tap paired with carefully selected nibbles. You’ll discover hidden gems while learning about beer’s history and aspects of the brewing process.

Light up the Night

The annual Celebration of Light wraps up on Saturday, July 30th with an amazing spectacle of fireworks by the USA. Sponsored by Honda, the celebration features more than just fireworks. There’s also the Shorefest Sunset Beach live music festival and The Stanley Park Brewing Sunsetter Lounge to enjoy a few cold ones while waiting for the light show to begin. Check out their website for transportation and other tips.

Spa-aah

Escape to the Scandinave Spa in Whistler where silence is embraced as the key to the success of finding one’s inner stillness for total relaxation. This 20,000 square foot Nordic day spa is known for its outdoor thermal baths and Thai yoga massage. Re-energize by alternating between warm and cool with the waterfall baths, steam rooms, saunas, and showers before chilling in the hammocks by the outdoor fireplace with beautiful mountain vista views and Whistler Blackcomb’s valleys to keep you company.

What’s your favourite way to play this long weekend? Share on our Facebook page!