When navigating around the large city of Vancouver and needing a quick a break to gather your thoughts, breathe nice and deep and just relax, you might want to find a place out of the big cities. This can sometimes prove a bit difficult when you’re low on time, so while in Vancouver, don’t fret, you don’t have to go far. Here are three excellent places to get some peace and quiet and at least a fresh breathe of air away from the concrete forest and beeping vehicles.
Konnichiwa
You might think you have teleported to Japan when you step foot in the Nitobe Memorial Garden at UCB Botanical Garden in Vancouver. This place was built by a team of gardeners and architects that were recommended by the Japanese government. A pristine forest of rivers, waterfalls, flora and fauna all live harmoniously here. There are certain trees and shrubbery that welcome each part of the year such as cherry blossoms in Spring and maples in Autumn. Some of the flora was even imported from Japan to make this sanctuary extra authentic.
City Beachin’
The Spanish Banks are a wonderful spot to get away from the city without going too far. With a spectacular view of the skyline you can sit on the beaches that are in the city of Vancouver. Along the shores of English Bay are stretches of sand that allow for you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city rather easily. The beaches are divided up into three sections, Spanish Bank East, Spanish Bank Extension, and Spanish Bank West.
Skim-boarding and kite surfing are the most popular sports for the Spanish Bank West. There are volleyball courts and life guards on duty for safety. The Spanish Bank East has many of the same amenities and also has a few waves and shallow pools.
The Spanish Bank Extension is the quietest of the three with no concession stands or volleyball courts in the area. Here is where you can experience a bit more peace and quiet.
Peaceful Grapes
What beverage goes best with chilling out, being peaceful and relaxing? Wine of course! The beautiful Okanagan Lake is surround by the Okanagan Valley which has blossomed in recent years. The is where some of Canada’s most successful and tasty wine comes from. These family ran vineyard are only around 20 years old and produce some of the most popular varsities such as Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The area has extinct volcanoes, beautiful lake views and of course vineyards. It’s impossible to not feel relaxed here with a nice grass of red in hand and the spectacular vistas around you.