Just before the flurry of snow we’re currently experiencing in downtown Vancouver, I was keen to make the most of the gloriously mild winter. West Vancouver has long been one of my favourite areas to explore, so I set off there for the day. This particular area is famous for its beautiful scenery, views across Vancouver, and affluent neighbourhoods. We started off in Dundarave, one of the best places for a walk with a view.
Dundarave, West Vancouver
Discovering that my favourite spot for brunch, The Beachhouse, was shut for refurbishment, we had to find another place to kickstart the day. Wandering along Dundarave’s boutique high street on Marine Drive, we came across the Truffle House. It was absolutely delicious and I’d highly recommend! Go for an eggs benedict served on a toasted croissant – yum.
Afterwards, we went to walk it off. We took in the views across to Stanley Park and Vancouver. If you’re in the area, definitely take the Centennial Seawalk across to Ambleside near Park Royal. It’s actually a much quieter seawall than those along Vancouver and has some of the most amazing views.
With the sun shining down, it looked anything but winter. Therefore, we strolled along the little pier and across the beaches. A perfect morning!
Lighthouse Park, West Vancouver
Our second stop of the day involved a little more of a walk. If you take the drive along from Dundarave up towards Lighthouse Park, you’ll experience one of the best drives ever. You cruise past gorgeous coastal scenery and some of the most incredible houses in all of Vancouver. It reminded me a little of the drive up to Malibu, albeit swapping out the Californian background for one of the Pacific North West.
Continuing on, you’ll reach Lighthouse Park. Park up and stroll along the simple hike to the coast. It offers breathtaking views across the ocean and beyond. It’s crazy to think how isolating it must have been working in the lighthouse for all those years. Plenty of people bring a beer or two to enjoy on the rocks with the ocean views.
It’s really cool being able to see all the way across to the whole of downtown Vancouver. Although it might not be obvious from these photos, the city looks pretty grand with its various skyscrapers.
After taking in the awesome views for a while, we hopped back into the car and onto our next stop.
Whytecliff Park, West Vancouver
Keen not to head back downtown while the sun was shining, we continued driving north west of the city to see what we could find. With a glimpse at Google Maps, we saw a coastal area called Whytecliffe Park and went over to see what was there.
We were met with some beautiful views of the ocean, and a few beaches. It was so nice to be outside in the sun and it was so warm in fact that I could take my coat off. Not bad for February in Canada! We sat and basked for a while, taking in the views.
Cypress Mountain Lookout
As our last stop on our way back into Vancouver, we stopped off at the Cypress Mountain lookout. It’s one of the best views of Vancouver in my opinion, reaching out for as far as the eye can see. Make sure you stop off for a snap if you’re driving down the mountain.
Belgard Kitchen, Vancouver
After getting back to the city after our day of exploring West Vancouver, I went to Belgard Kitchen that evening to celebrate a friend’s birthday. If you’ve not been yet, I highly recommend their amazing wine flights. The ambience there and the food is pretty good too.
Have you visited West Vancouver? If so, where are your favourite places to hang out? Let me know in the comments section!
