HALF FULL Calgary’S Jason Pechet Pursues Dream in Okanagan

BC1

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CALGARY HERALD

GLASS HALF FULL Calgary’s Jason Pechet pursues dream in Okanagan

COASTAL CUISINE Must-visit Vancouver restaurants

IT’S TIME TO TEE UP Grab your clubs and hit these B.C. courses

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 1 14-05-21 12:15 PM BC2

SPONSOR CONTENT Fairwinds is all about the golf — and the lifestyle

spectacular round of golf in the geared to retiring adults but it’s a defi- “What makes this area unique is ing a deer on the course, as well as bald morning, a relaxing afternoon nite lifestyle. You come here to golf, all the homes are very different and eagles and tons of other wildlife,” says Ahike through the woods and a hike, kayak, and a ton of other activi- they are built into the landscape,” Karakochuk, adding the mild climate soothing boat ride at sunset. That’s ties,” says Kyla Karakochuk, Fairwinds Karakochuk says. offers near year-round golfing. Fairwinds master-planned community. assistant manager of marketing and A haven for social activities, this A full service marina at Schooner Cove Located between Parksville and communications. master-planned community is home to is a definite attraction for boat owners Nanaimo, this piece of Vancouver Island This well established community has the Fairwinds Golf Club, voted the No. 1 or those wanting picturesque views of real estate offers ocean vistas, forest- 750 home sites featuring residential course on Vancouver Island in 2013 in a the Georgia Strait, small neighbouring lined walking trails, a fitness centre and properties from custom-build, ocean- BCLiving.ca reader poll. islands and coastal mountains. a world-class golf course. view homes to popular luxury patio “It’s almost a guarantee that you Find more information at www.fair- “It’s mostly a 45-plus community models. can’t play a round of golf without see- winds.ca.

LIVE HERE. LIVE MORE.

Set among beautiful landscapes, vistas, and an abundanceofwildlife, Fairwinds is apremier master-planned oceanfront communitythat offersanunforgettable lifestyle experience, year-round. Centrally located, Fairwinds offerschampionship golf,aprivateﬁtnesscentre, 20 kms of walking trails, and afull-servicemarina.

If you’rethinking of designing your dream home, we currently have a number of homesites available. Or perhaps RockcliffePark is moreof what you’relooking for, acollection of luxury patio homes just a one minutewalk from Fairwinds FitnessCentre.

To ﬁnd out more, contact us today.

Justnorth of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island

NANOOSE BAY

1.866.468.5957 |[email protected] |www.fairwinds.ca/discover

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 2 14-05-21 12:15 PM BC3

inside

Jason Pechet The best way is getting ready to see Victoria for prime is on two wheels 4 wine-making 13 time in Penticton Discover B.C. is a directed-editorial publication of the Calgary Herald Special Projects Department as a result of interest in tourism in British Columbia. The Calgary Herald did not afford the advertisers creative control beyond approving the broad subject; advertisers The hardest part Vancouver’s were not given the opportunity to put restrictions on the is picking sizzling content or review it prior to publication. what park restaurant Sponsor content within Discover B.C., 8 to go to 14 scene was developed by the Special Projects Department in collaboration with participating advertisers for commercial purposes.

Project co-ordinators: Darren Oleksyn It’s always When your [email protected] tee time holiday becomes Charlene Kolesnik 12 around B.C. 15 home [email protected] Editor: Lisa Monforton Design: Kathryn Molcak Cover photo: Jason Pechet.

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 3 14-05-21 12:16 PM BC4

— Jason Pechet, president, Stagewest Hospitality (left) and Mohamed Awad - manager of Skaha Hills Winery & Vineyard (right). dHzMedia Contributed by Skaha Hills Artist rendering

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 4 14-05-21 12:16 PM BC5

Wine-making Albertans in the Vineyard Okanagan Jason Pechet joins many Albertans following their passions into the Okanagan wine industry. Here are two recent additions: 50th Parallel NORTHEAST SIDE OF OKANAGAN LAKE, dreams NEAR VERNON

One of the newest wineries is run by husband and wife Curtis Krouzel A passion for wine and carrying on the family legacy and Sheri-Lee Turner-Krouzel. The former Calgarians launched Parallel and then lured a top-notch winemak- er away from Quail’s Gate. inspired Calgary’s Jason Pechet to open a winery in Penticton Curtis, who owned an oil and gas engineering services company, and his wife, who operated several fi tness By BarbBarb Livingstone;Livingstone; p photoshotos by M Mikeike Bi Bidenden NaNakodakoda R Resortesort an andd Ca Casinosino i inn Ca Canmore.nmore. franchises, have big plans for the But Jason’s true education came from 24.6-hectare property, including lodg- hef’s hat perched atop his head, watching his father and grandfather, who ings and a wine therapy spa. 12-year-old Jason Pechet was already emigrated from Romania as a teenager. In 2013 they produced about 6,000 Cwhipping up crepes and cherries “I was very close to my grandfather. cases of wine from estate and pur- jubilee in the kitchen of his grandfather’s He was an old school business guy where chased fruit. iconic Mayfield Inn restaurant. your handshake was your word — and Albertans are a natural fi t in the He bused tables and carried on unde- you lived by your word.” wine business, says Sherry. They have terred even though his father did not A prolific businessman, Eugene opened “a professional work ethic and ability want him going into the hospitality more than 25 hotels. “He worked hard to execute business at a large scale.” industry. and he was smart,” says Jason. “We saw how hard he worked, the Jason’s father who was heavily encour- Black Hills Estate Winery odd hours he put in,” says the 37-year- aged into the business by his father, NEAR OLIVER old Pechet,” of his grandfather. “But discouraged Jason and his younger that didn’t matter; I loved it.” brother David from the business, but Calgarian Glenn Fawcett founded Founded by his grandfather and nur- it didn’t work. David is vice-president the partnership that took ownership tured by his father, it’s natural Pechet, of Stagewest’s Casino Operations and of Black Hills in 2007. president of the family’s Stagewest Development in Calgary. A tourism entrepreneur, he and his Hospitality business, wants to carry on “From my father I learned the impor- wife toured Napa Valley in 2001 and fell the family legacy and now he’s about to tance of the joy of life, the joy of fam- in love with the industry and its lifestyle. leap into the world of wine. — Skaha Hills rendering of $5.2 million winery and Skaha Hills ily,” says Jason, who is married to profes- “When Napa winemakers found He’s signed on for a $5.2 million launch residential community. sional photographer Jessica Pechet and out we were from Canada, they told of the Skaha Hills winery in Penticton, Pechet. His father, Howard, remains CEO. has a two-year-old son Greyson. us the Okanagan was just like Napa which includes a tasting room and bistro In 1974 Eugene and Howard, opened In a business that is 90 per cent dealing was 25 years ago,” says Fawcett. with patios overlooking the vineyard their flagship property, the Mayfield Inn with people, Jason says his father epito- He helped set up the investor partner- along Skaha Lake in Edmonton. It was there Stage West mizes that skill but also has the ability to ship at Therapy Vineyards and in 2007, “This is something I have been looking dinner theatre was born and now is add the “wow factor.” Fawcett put together the partnership to do for 10 years,” says Pechet, Edmonton headed in Calgary by Howard. “He is an amazing marketer.” that owns Black Hills. (There are 450 born but now based in Calgary. Jason received a degree from Cornell In fact, Howard is in the Guinness owners, 300 of them from Calgary.) He joins a growing number of University in hotel administration with a World Book of Records, taking his theatre As president and CEO, he divides Albertans investing in the Okanagan focus on finance. He worked in London, passion and earning the title of most pro- his time between Calgary and the wine industry (see sidebar). England at the Grosvenor House. Before lific theatre producer in the world. Okanagan. The Skaha Hills winery will start with the age of 30, he’d opened a restaurant, Jason comes by his philosophy hon- He understands why Albertans are about six hectares of vineyard and a pro- managed two hotels and played an estly. “You have to have passion for involved in the business. duction capacity of 11,000 cases of wine, essential role in the hospitality opera- everything you do,” and that includes “They have the passion; it’s a lot with the option to increase production tions at Great Canadian Casinos, orches- the food and wine industry. of hard work but you can be to more than 20 hectares. trating the opening of River Rock Hotel He is excited about the Skaha venture, proud of it. And I think people The vineyard will be part of the Skaha Casino in Richmond, B.C. which will initially produce three red and like to have that connec- Hills master-planned development by Jason joined Stagewest Hospitality as three white wines. tion to who is craft- Greyback Developments in partner- vice-president of property development Pechet says Penticton has great poten- ing your wine.” ship with the Penticton Indian Band and, in 2006, became president based tial for tourism growth. Development Corp. The 223-hectare site in Calgary. Stagewest is now a leading There are two reasons why he and other on the South Okanagan hillsides and Canadian hotel, casino and entertainment Albertans are investing in the Okanagan: bench lands will be a mixed residential/ business, which owns and operates the “I love Alberta but the Okanagan is commercial community. Medicine Hat Lodge Resort and Casino, one of the most pristine places in the The winery is a natural evolution for the Camrose Resort Casino, Stage West world. And while pioneers have been Pechet. He has continued to expand Theatre Restaurant (Calgary), Mayfield toiling with the wine business there for Stagewest Hospitality, launched in 1944 by Travel (Edmonton), Violino’s Restaurant 30 years, it is still in its infancy and is just his Romanian-born grandfather, Eugene (Edmonton) and manages the Stoney growing and getting better.”

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 5 14-05-23 12:40 PM BC6

—Best Impressions Photography

SPONSOR CONTENT A Playground for all seasons

n the southeastern corner of British Columbia, the jagged peaks of the Rockies rise in parallel with those of the Purcell, Selkirk and Monashee ranges. In between are valleys, rivers and lakes that have Ienabled human existence for thousands of years.

Major rivers include the Kootenay Victorian towns. This is the viewing and golfing. and the Columbia, North America’s birthplace of adventure tourism. Typically, July and August are fourth largest, which, from its source Picture Victorian men and women, the best months for most outdoor in the Rockies, circumnavigates the devoid of high-tech clothing, activities, and for lazy days at the region in a wide arc. Tributaries roped to Swiss mountain guides as beach. Count on a fabulous dis- such as the Kicking Horse River, Elk they traverse the icefields and gla- play of fall colours, and any time River and Salmo River generate ciers in our many national parks. of year is great for a soak in the some of the best whitewater condi- Today, visitors come to the hot springs. tions on the continent. Kootenay Rockies for a rich pal- And, if you just want to enjoy In the midst of this monumen- ette of recreational activities the view, there is no shortage of tal landscape, geography, geol- that includes world-class hiking, tranquility in these mountains and ogy and history have conspired biking, climbing, river rafting, valleys. As playgrounds go, this one — Best Impression Photography to create utterly charming small paragliding, canoeing, wildlife is big.

KootenayRockies.mobi

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 6 14-05-21 12:17 PM BC7

STAY &GOLF Visit usin KimberleyusVisit Kimberley,BCBC, KOOTENAYROCKIES Agolf course thatistruly in tune with Mother Nature with itsnatural contours, elevation changes and gorgeous scenery. We are very excited to provide youthe opportunityof an unforgettable golﬁngexperience. $109

2010 Runner-up best newcourseinCanada -ScoreGolf 18 hole package includes one night accommodation plus hot Full Service RV • tenting • pool • putting course breakfast and powercartrental.* *based on double occupancy, taxesnot included •spectacular scenery •store, showers, laundry •playground &recreation park • •Hotspot internet access •clean facilities •friendly staff •near all golf resorts • Book your golf package at the Heritage Inn Hotel &Convention CentreinCranbrook 1-888-888-4374 | heritageinn.net | We’re very social! kimberleycampground.com 1-877-999-2929

Relax in Nelson, Balfour,AinsworthHot Springs, Kaslo or Lardeau ...or golf, cycle,paddle, dine, shop,fish, paddle, celebrate

feels sooooo good!

Travel NOW! nelsonkootenaylake.com

KootenayRockies.mobi

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 7 14-05-21 12:17 PM BC8

Take a hike in some scenic parks Natural wonders for wanderers, include cliffs, canyons and meadows

By Gerald Vander Pyl

arks, parks everywhere. At least that’s the impression Pa visitor gets while travelling through British Columbia, which is dotted with thousands of parks, from small municipal green spaces to provincial and national parks. Calgarians heading west can take Highway 93 through Kootenay National Park, home to many great shorts hikes and spectacular natural wonders. Summer Special* That includes Marble Canyon, a Book by June 15th deep chasm carved by a turquoise river in the midst of a forest now 3rdNight Free recovering from a wildfire, Numa Book after June 15th Falls, set in a black rock canyon, and for 50% off 3rdNight. the Redwall Fault cliffs near Radium At participating Fernie Hot Springs. accommodations, If travellers choose to stay on the TransCanada Highway into B.C., they valid forstays April will go through several national 15th –Oct 31st. parks, including Yoho, with some of *some conditions apply its best scenery off short side roads. See PARKS, Page 9

Book your Fernie Vacation today! TOURISMFERNIE.COM

1.877.933.7643 | FACEBOOK.COM/FERNIE.CANADA

— Kootenay National Park. Destination BC photo KootenayRockies.mobi

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 8 14-05-21 12:17 PM BC9

— Bugaboo Provincial Park. Destination BC photo

From PARKS, Page 8 The narrow road to Takakkaw Falls is not suitable for RVs or trailers, but is worth the effort for views of the famous chutes and hikes to backcountry destinations such as Twin Falls, located near a historic lodge and tea house. Other roads lead to serene Emerald Lake and a natural stone bridge carved by the Kicking Horse River, and thundering Wapta Falls. Past Golden, B.C. the TransCanada climbs over Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park, an area famed for its numerous glaciers and abundant railway history. The Abandoned Rails and Loop Brook trails have remnants of old railway structures, including snow sheds and stone towers from a former section of the Canadian Pacific line that once crossed over the pass. A small gem of a park is Mount Revelstoke National Park, further west on the TransCanada and a place most travellers zoom past. Its highlight is the Meadows in the Sky Parkway, a road which climbs switchbacks to the summit of a mountain, where snowbanks linger and wild flowers bloom profusely in July. The Kootenay region of British Columbia is also home to many wonderful parks. Some like Kokanee Glacier, Bugaboo, and Top of the World Provincial Parks are reached by driv- ing sometimes rough gravel roads and then hiking up steep trails. These are wild and remote areas, with limited facilities, but amazing scenery, from the granite spires of the Bugaboos, which lure climbers from around the word, to the icy marvel of Kokanee Glacier and the peaceful backcountry campgrounds of Top of the World. A better option for families might be Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, on Kootenay Lake, which has a kilo- metre of sandy beaches and three campgrounds with playgrounds. Gardeners will want to seek out the hidden gem of Cominco Gardens, a park in Kimberley, B.C., that cover five acres and has more than 45,000 flowers in bloom during peak season. KootenayRockies.mobi

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 9 14-05-21 12:18 PM BC10

6National Parks, 3Mountain Range, 2Historic Rivers, 1Epic Adventure.

GOLDEN GOLF CLUB

The picturesque 18-Hole golf course is characterized by gently rolling isolated holes with great mountain views. 24 site RV Park adjacent to course.

1.866.727.7222 www.golfgolden.com

HILLSIDE LODGE &CHALETS WET N’ WILD RAFTING CEDAR HOUSE RESTAURANT &CHALETS Combine any whitewater rafting tour with Luxurious 1-6 bedroom chalets perfect for a Situated on 20 acres of serene river front an overnight stay at the McLaren Lodge fall escape, wedding or family reunion. property,Hillside Lodge is perfect for afew B&B. Starts at only $245/couple! Full amenities including private hot tubs! nights’ getaway or astunning wedding venue! Daily departures May –September. Activities and organic restaurant on site. All ages and levels of experience. 1.250.344.7281 www.hillsidechalets.com 1.800.668.9119 www.raftgolden.ca 1.250.290.OOO1 www.cedarhousechalets.com

GOLDEN CIVIC CENTRE FOR YOUR WEDDING HYDRA RIVER GUIDES SUMMER KICKS –THE WORLD COMES TO PLAYINGOLDEN THIS SUMMER

Beautifully restored heritage hall surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery less than 3hours from Calgary at an affordable price. The Kicking Horse River is famous for big whitewater Elegantly appointed interior and restrooms. and mighty rapids. Hydra River Guides has been Check our website for weekly,free evening concerts Full kitchen. State-of-the-art lighting, stage, and dance ﬂoor. introducing guests to the “kicks” of rafting since 1986. down by our covered bridge in Golden’sSpirit Square In downtown Golden close to everything. featuring festival artists from around the world. Google “Golden Civic Centre” for more info. We know rafting! Are you ready to Join us? Great value for reasonable cost June through August. Brought to you by the Town of Golden. 1.250.344.6186 www.kickinghorseculture.ca/civic-centre 1.800.644.8888 www.hydrarafting.com 1.250.344.6186 www.kickinghorseculture.ca

www.TourismGolden.com/discover 1.800.622.GOLD @TourismGolden /VisitGoldenBC Tourism Golden

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 10 14-05-21 12:18 PM BC11

SPONSOR CONTENT Thrill-seeking all summer long ip lines and aerial parks make for and adventurous and fun family Zouting all summer long. Those looking for the thrill of high elevation gain and speed can climb ladders, cross swinging bridges, bun- gee jump and zoom down zip lines all around the Kootenay Rockies. Several such attractions can be found near Revelstoke, Golden and Fernie. For an extra thrill, zipline over rapids and canyons with Canadian Mountain the most pristine wilderness in B.C. Holidays Summer Adventures at its Two-wheeled adventures of the mountain Bobbie Burns lodge. biking kind could keep riders busy all Just as thrilling, not to mention cool- summer long. Many mountain bike parks ing on a hot summer day are water offer lift-assisted trail riding for all levels slides - with their twisting and turning of riders, along with lessons to learn the chutes, tube rides and splash parks. necessary skills. Outdoor waterslide facilities are locat- There are bike parks at Fernie Alpine ed in Nelson at Kootenay Rockies. Resort, Panorama Mountain Village Then there’s also the chance for some and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. motorboat action on just about any lake For parents looking to sneak in a bit in the region, including waterskiing and of educational fun for their kids consider tubing. But if you prefer to paddle on visiting a historic park. Ride a train into your own steam consider a kayaking a tunnel and watch a mining demon- adventure. Many are available in the area stration at the Kimberley Underground and offer a day long or multi-day trips Mining Railway or pan for gold at Fort that bring you face to face with some of Steele Heritage Town near Cranbrook.

—Best Impressions Photography

KootenayRockies.mobi

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 11 14-05-21 12:18 PM BC12

PAGE 12 Saturday, June 7, 2014 DISCOVER B.C. CALGARY HERALD Step up to the tee at these terrific clubs

By Carl Patzel hotbed for wineries, the trek through 36 holes of Jack Nicklaus-designed the valley, from Osoyoos in the south mountain and valley layouts with eleva- to Vernon in the north, passes scores of tion changes, island greens and eye-pop- hether you drive, fly or take a vineyards and tasting rooms, many with ping views. The track played host to the recreation vehicle, an on-par excellent restaurants. 2010 Telus World Skins Game. Wgolf experience awaits in British Minutes outside Vernon, is the much- Also worth a look is the 27-hole Columbia. touted Predator Ridge Resort that Audubon-sanctuary-certified Cordova Time on the links can be combined hosted the Telus Canadian Skins Game Bay Golf Course in Victoria and the with wine tasting, helicopter tours or in 2000 and 2008. This 27-hole outing Ardmore Golf Course in North Saanich. golf and spa getaways. sports fast greens, pine-covered ridges Further north up the Island Highway In the Kootenay region alone, there are and wheatgrass rough. is the Arbutus Ridge Golf Course in the more than 20 golf courses, highlighted Touring northwest to Kamloops, Cowichan Valley, a semi-private club by Panorama Mountain Village’s 18-hole there’s the highly ranked Tobiano Golf given a four-star rating by Golf Digest. Greywolf Golf Course, voted by Golf Club, consistently in Canada’s Top 20. Also nearby is the 6,189-yard Cowichan Digest as one of the top 100 tracts in the If big-city golf is your thing, don’t Golf and Country Club with a member- — Predator Ridge Resort, Vernon. world outside of the United States. pass up a visit to the greater Vancouver guest rate of only $43. Also not to be ignored are the acco- region, to play at the highly praised, his- In and around Nanaimo, there are sev- lades awarded to Eagle Ranch Golf Resort, toric Capilano Golf and Country Club. A scenic ferry ride or quick flight across eral courses, including the ocean scenery, including the best-conditioned course in North of Vancouver, along Highway 99, the Georgia Strait brings you to the natural water hazards and dense forest B.C. and four-and-a-half stars awarded by the Whistler area is a first-rate destina- Vancouver Island Golf Trail. This pretty offered at the Fairwinds Golf Club, named Golf Digest’s Best Places to Play. tion for golf getaways. Several courses drive boasts more than 20 courses and the best course on Vancouver Island in Further into the interior, along — including the world-class mountain 11 championship golf clubs dotted along 2013 by BCliving.ca. Okanagan Lake, Kelowna hosts two golf experiences at Fairmont Chateau 250 kilometres of inland countryside and About halfway up the east side of standout clubs — Gallagher’s Canyon Whistler, Nicklaus North and the Big Sky Pacific Ocean coastline between Victoria the island, golf enthusiasts are greeted Golf and Country Club and the Golf & Country Club — are at the top of and Campbell River. by Storey Creek Golf Club outside of Okanagan Golf Club (Bear course). Both many players’ bucket lists. A good start would be on the southern Campbell River. Venturing north to the offer mountain views, inviting saddle- Those wishing to forget a bad round tip of the island where golfers can walk the end of the highway brings into play Port shaped fairways and dramatic elevation. can kick back at the Scandinave Spa same tree-lined fairways as Tiger Woods at Hardy’s Seven Hills Golf and Country This scenic section of British Columbia Whistler, Vida Spa at The Fairmont the Olympic View Golf Club in Victoria. Club where they welcome recreational makes it easy to unite spectacular play Chateau Whistler Resort and many other The capital city is also home to the vehicles, golfers of all abilities and even with a glass of red or white wine. A salons in the area. Bear Mountain Resort, which highlights the odd black bear. Notfor Everyone. Just for You.

Exceptional Four Season Okanagan Homes in aWaterfront Park.

You’veworked hardand deservesomething special. Howabout aspectacular Visit our Display Homes 2450 Radio TowerRoad, Oliver, BC home in the middleofawaterfront park? Your privatebeach, clubhouse, See websitefor open hours. ﬁtnesscentre, pools, walking trails, boat slips and right in the heart of wine 1.855.742.5555 country.Customhomes forspecial people. osoyooscottages.com

This is not an offering forsale. Any such offering mustbemade with an Information Statement. Prices aresubject to change without notice. Actual project images.

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 12 14-05-21 12:18 PM BC13

CALGARY HERALD DISCOVER B.C. Saturday, June 7, 2014 PAGE 13

Savour a taste of Victoria Natural The Pedaler capitalizes Wonders on what this city by Mother Nature’s fi nest work is on the sea has to offer display all over B.C., including By Meghan Jessiman many dramatic waterfalls. Some like hope you have a first aid kit handy,” Takakkaw Falls “ I say to Paul Rayman, owner of The in Yoho National IPedaler, Victoria’s freshest option for Park (373 metres) experiencing what the city has to offer, as and Shannon Falls we strap on our helmets and prepare to near Squamish embark on a three-hour cycling tour. are reached via I’m only half joking, because the last easy hikes from two times I have been forced upon a a paved road. bicycle, I have found myself getting Others like Della closely acquainted with the pavement Falls in Strathcona rather than enjoying the scenery. Provincial Park (440 Rayman’s not worried, though. “You’ve metres), one of the — Takakkaw Falls in Yoho never been on one of these,” he says, highest in Canada; National Park, Destination pointing to one of the seafoam green cruis- and Hunlen Falls (365 B.C./Albert Normandin er-style bikes (complete with basket) The metres) in Tweedsmuir South Provincial Pedaler provides for their inner-city jaunts. I Park are hidden in remote areas and most smile, nod and try to hide my trepidation. easily viewed from a helicopter or airplane We push off into the misty morning air, sightseeing tour. a group of six playing follow the leader Glaciers crown many as we weave our way along park paths of the highest peaks towards bluffs overlooking the crashing in B.C., and can be waves below. On this particular day, it feels spotted on a drive like we’re taking in the cinematography along highways for a production of Wuthering Heights, such as the Trans- except for the world’s tallest totem pole in Canada through the background, of Rogers Pass, Highway course. As we make 93 through Kootenay — Glacier in Bugaboo our way towards Make a weekend of it Provincial Park, National Park, or the Sea- Cook Street Village Gerald Vander Pyl to-Sky route from Van- for our first stop The Pedal & Pamper package from downtown couver to Whistler. For a at Bubby’s Cafe, Victoria’s Magnolia Hotel & Spa offers visitors a close up view, take the challenging hiking I feel the death two-night stay at this recently refreshed boutique trails to Mt. Robson to view glaciers spilling grip I had on the property with its choice of The Pedaler’s tour offer- down into Berg Lake, or the steep climb up handlebars loosen ings. From coffee roasteries, to brew houses, or to Bugaboo Provincial Park and look down as I start to remem- the cities most historic houses and legends, there’s — The Pedaler photos on glaciers clinging to its granite peaks. ber just how fun a ride to suit all interests and palates. Prices start with if they are only here Towering trees hundreds of years old have cruising along on from $255/night for in June, and $275/night for July for a couple days or don’t survived both time and the threat of logging two-wheels used to and August. Two-night minimum stay applies. Visit have good information in several old growth forests in the province. be as a kid. magnoliahotel.com or call 1-877-624-6654 for more about what is happening Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial What’s even information or to book your stay. locally,” Rayman says. Park on Vancouver Island has giant Douglas more fun now The Pedaler’s tours Fir trees up to nine metres in circumference, though, is a offer visitors first-hand while just to the north there are groves of bicycle outing knowledge of local hang- huge Western Red Cedar near Cameron that involves stops highlighting Victoria’s Victoria for so long it is difficult to lose outs and favourites like the grilled cin- Lake. At the Ancient Cottonwood Interpre- artisanal coffee shop (complete with out- when, as a visitor, you tend to mostly namon buns at Bubby’s, which are not to tive Trail near Fernie are the world’s oldest standing health-minded baked goods) see bus tours to beautiful gardens, after- be missed. and largest Black Cottonwood trees. and craft beer scenes. This is exactly noon tea experiences, or activities on the “We’ve done an amazing jobs promot- B.C.’s wildlife diversity what Rayman and wife Rosemary Lee, water, which are completely removed ing the historic and picturesque tourist can be spotted from set out to do when they opened The from what is happening in our neigh- attractions that make for a beautiful visit, popular viewing Pedaler last June. They’ve created three bourhoods,” Rayman explains. “All of but alongside all of that is the city we real- areas, including the culinarily-focused tours, Beans & Bites, those things are wonderful, but there is ly live in: cool, relaxed, creative and fun.” Creston Wildlife Hoppy Hour (the original beer-themed so much more happening here.” Besides the aforementioned Bubby’s Management area biking tour in the country) and Eat. He’s right. Victoria is arguably the epi- baking, that day our group tasted our with more than Drink.Pedal, to that end. centre of the flourishing craft beer scene in way through Fernwood Coffee, Silkroad 400 species of birds After moving to Victoria 11 years ago, B.C. and Canada. The vibrant coffee culture Tea, Bon Macaron and finished up with a and other wetlands the pair immediately noticed Victoria’s has produced national ranking baristas and flight of cold ones at The Guild. creatures. There are flourishing food and drink scene, which local experts who are called upon to judge Happily there was no first aid nec- many tours available to — Ancient inspired them to help the city shake its coffee events across North America. essary on this excursion. The key? view whales, otter and seas Cottonwood trees, “newlywed and nearly dead” reputation. “These are things that are not neces- Carbohydrates and craft beer: they do a lions along the coast. Gerald Vander Pyl “That tag line has been pinned on sarily that easy for a visitor to connect shaky cyclist good.

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 13 14-05-23 12:42 PM BC14

PAGE 14 Saturday, June 7, 2014 DISCOVER B.C. CALGARY HERALD Ecclectic coastal cuisine

By Shelley Boettcher many dishes as you can afford, so you can ou’d probably have to eat out try the creative selection. A couple of fa- every night for six months before vourites: the avocado frites and the kimchi Yyou’d make it to every excellent burger (made with tempeh.) heirloomres- restaurant in Vancouver. taurant.ca With that in mind, here is a completely subjective list of some of the city’s fi nest and most creative restaurants. Whether Kessel & March you’re looking for a fi ne vegetarian feast, STYLE: WEST COAST MODERN carbs and coffee or a hotter-than-hot nightspot, Vancouver’s dining scene offers Kessel & March is trendy without trying something for everyone. Just don’t forget too hard, and, best of all, it has prices that to call to reserve a table. won’t break the bank. Consider the squash mascarpone cannelloni with walnuts and herb brown butter for $13, or the pork L’Abbatoir belly with beans, kale and mustard vinai- STYLE: WEST COAST FRENCH grette for $13. Or book in advance for the Wednesday family-style four-course sup- Located on the site of Vancouver’s fi rst pers for $35 per person. Like Hawksworth, jail, L’Abbatoir gets its name from the fact mentioned above, chef Tony Marzo also that the historic ’hood used to be the city’s worked at Michelin-starred restaurants in fi rst meatpacking district. Now it has a cool Europe before starting Kessel & March. urban vibe and food that’s just as sexy. We kesselandmarch.com dare you to say no to the warm steelhead — La Pentola della Quercia photo trout and crunchy potato salad. Or the lamb, with bacon and gnocchi. Or, for des- Nelson the Seagull sert, the Earl Grey tea pot de crème with STYLE: BAKERY-CAFÉ lemon shortbread. labattoir.ca The name is irresistible, and so is the bread. Yes, bread. This eatery isn’t for Absinthe Bistro people who avoid gluten; it’s for people STYLE: MODERN FRENCH who embrace it, love it, can’t live without it. And when you have enough bread, Chef/owner Cory Pearson studied in there are fancy poached eggs, soup, salad France after graduating from culinary and coffee, too. A great brunch or lunch school, but don’t expect to fi nd a stuffy stop after a morning of sightseeing.nelson- old-fashioned chef in the kitchen. Pearson’s theseagull.com food is beautifully crafted and innovative, yet delicate in style. The scallops are a must. Book ahead, however, as this teeny La Pentola della Quercia (22-seat) bistro is popular. bistroabsinthe. STYLE: RUSTIC NORTHERN ITALIAN com Located within the beautiful Opus Hotel, this restaurant offers family-style dining Burdock & Co. (platters, instead of individual portions) STYLE: INTERNATIONAL LOCAVORE and a menu that’s tweaked daily, depend- ing on what’s in season. Make sure you Chef Andrea Carlson worked at a couple order the house-made pasta. Breakfast of other great places, Bishop’s and Raincity options include Kaiserschmarrn, a Northern Grill, before starting Burdock & Co. What Italian pancake made with raisins, pine to expect? Brunch, lunch, dinner and all nuts and cream. apentola.ca sorts of local organic ingredients (smoked — Absinthe Bistro photo — Kessel & March photo hazelnuts, East Van Roasters chocolate). lemon-infused seawater. And try a hopped dinner, and try anything seafood: crispy You’ll fi nd vegetarian and vegan choices, as kombucha swizzle, a.k.a. fancy cocktail. fried oysters, black olive-crusted halibut or PiDGiN well as a wine list that focuses on “natu- farmersapprentice.ca maybe the tandoori-grilled sturgeon. If you STYLE: JAPANESE FUSION ralist wines from France and Italy.” Leave can’t get a table in the restaurant, try the room for dessert. burdockandco.com lounge. hawksworthrestaurant.com Chef Makoto Ono was born and raised in Hawksworth Winnipeg, where his parents opened the STYLE: CONTEMPORARY CANADIAN city’s fi rst sushi bar. He was the winner of Farmer’s Apprentice Heirloom the fi rst Canadian Gold Medal Plates com- STYLE: INTERNATIONAL LOCAVORE Located in the swank Hotel Georgia, STYLE: INSPIRED VEGETARIAN petition. And his food? Creative, innova- Hawksworth is headed up by David Hawk- tive, international; a recent menu featured Chef David Gunawan creates new dishes sworth, who worked at Michelin-starred Vancouver wouldn’t be Vancouver with- raw scallops with pomegranate, red curry daily, so don’t show up expecting anything restaurants in Europe before returning out its uber-healthy, eco-friendly, politically oil, daikon and green apple. Then there you read about. Just know that you’ll be home to Vancouver. Lucky Vancouver. correct vibe. Experience all that, and food was the beef brisket with a miso-gorgon- surprised by such dishes as the octopus Go for breakfast and enjoy the sable- so fi ne you won’t miss meat, at Heirloom. zola crust and beets. Need we say more? with lemon emulsion, dashi granite and fi sh brandade poached eggs. Or go for Go for brunch, lunch or dinner and get as pidginvancouver.com

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 14 14-05-21 12:19 PM BC15

CALGARY HERALD DISCOVER B.C. Saturday, June 7, 2014 PAGE 15

Real estate hot spots Turning a holiday into home

COLUMBIA VALLEY: The appeal of Moderate climate Report. The Valley remains. Wonderful lake In Fernie, traditionally a popular loca- and golfing are the attraction, and it’s and active lifestyle tion for Calgarians, the market has only a three-hour drive from Calgary. maintained an even keel, thanks to the attract buyers presence of both recreational buyers and VICTORIA: A mild climate, beautiful a strong local economy, say realtors Butch location, and just about everything Coultry and Alan Young with Re/Max Elk you could want in a city has made By Gerald Vander Pyl Valley Realty. B.C.’s capital a perennial favourite for “We’ve never had the big ups and Alberta buyers. downs,” says Coultry. “More and more vacation to British Columbia can people are seeing value in Fernie for a FERNIE: Much more than a ski town, be a wonderful experience, so lot of reasons. They’re not seeing Fernie Fernie has evolved and now offers Aimagine being able to visit there as just a recreational town, but a great excellent dining, a variety of sum- all the time? place to live.” mer recreation, and many real estate Many people who decide to buy a rec- Young says real estate is increasingly options. reational property in B.C. or retire there being sought out by people who can work — Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa photo are initially inspired during a holiday to remotely, or those who choose to work in GOLDEN: Golden’s real estate market the province. with the weather than allows year round the city only three or four days a week, took off when Kicking Horse Mountain Victoria realtor Lorne Meyer with outdoor pursuits. and spend the rest of their time in Fernie. Resort opened. Since then buyers real- Century 21 Queensland Realty says the Meyer himself is an avid cyclist. As of “It’s almost like a reverse commute.” ize the location is on the doorstep of city remains a hugely popular place for late April, he’s already pedalled more The five mines in the region provide good numerous mountain parks, making it a Calgarians looking to retire. than 2,000 kilometres. “And, I don’t jobs, he says, adding that Fernie has moved year-round destination. “Most folks buying have been here even go out if it’s raining,” he says. beyond being dependent on tourism. before, either on a vacation or visiting Real estate sales in many areas of B.C. , “It’s not a resort, it’s a real town,” he says. OKANAGAN/SHUSWAP: The develop- relatives. They go back home and later outside the always busy West Coast area Coultry recalls a time when many res- ment boom has subsided. But it’s the say, “We know we like the area, so let’s have been picking up this year. taurants in Fernie would close for several large lakes and hot summer that con- go explore some real estate.’ ” The less favourable U.S. exchange rate months after the ski season ended. tinue to attract Calgary buyers. to this Meyer says the mild climate remains has led to many Alberta buyers choosing Now, he says people who own vaca- playground known for its motorboat the biggest attraction. the Okanagan for vacation homes over tion homes in Fernie use it more for the sports, fishing, golfing and more. He says Victoria is known as a very southern spots like Phoenix, according spring, summer and fall, and rent it out active city, and a lot of that has to do to the Re/Max Spring Market Trends over the ski season.

S PONSOR CONTENT Get into the summer spirit of Vernon and all it has to offer

ith days getting longer and tem- one of the 100 lakes and rivers that sur- peratures rising, it’s time to shed round Vernon. Watch predator birds soar Wthe winter woolies and dust off overhead hiking endless lake and moun- the summer gear for a visit to Vernon. tainside trails that make communing with The beautiful community of Vernon nature a quintessential part of any visit. in the North Okanagan valley is a proud Vernon is also a great destination for supporter of the “shorts” culture. foodies and connoisseurs of fine beverages. Vernonites prefer to wear board The traditional Farmers’ Markets shorts, hiking shorts, golf shorts, bike take place on Monday and Thursday shorts, SUP shorts and even dress shorts mornings, and there is also a brand from spring to fall. new Public Market on Friday nights on So now that you know what to pack, it’ll the downtown avenue, making it even be easy to fill your days in Vernon, a former easier to shop local. trading post and ranching hub that has Select a local cheese (some Bella Stella morphed into a year-round destination. formagella would be nice, or perhaps Leave your cares behind and unplug Triple Island Farms’ Gouda could work and reconnect with family. well) and some handcrafted sausage Ride a vintage apple bin train at (from Helmut’s Kitchen). Davison Orchards. Pick up all the ingre- Then wash lunch down with some- dients for a picnic with fresh fruit and With its beautiful natural setting, Vernon Jump on your bike, gear down and thing delicious from Okanagan Spirits veggies grown on the farm as well as is an outdoor playground for all ages. get a little mud on your tires at Ellison or the new additions to Vernon’s rep- the best pies in the Okanagan. Anticipate each stroke you’ll take or Kalamalka Provincial Park or head ertoire: The BX Press Cidery or Marten Davison Orchards is family owned and playing at Predator Ridge Resort, with up to the bike park at Silver Star Resort, Brewing Company. operated with three generations work- its storied 36-hole course and unrivalled just 25 minutes from downtown. For more information on planning your ing side by side. golf academy. Tee up, play your shot, Kalamalka Lake is also the best place vacation, call Tourism Vernon at 1-800- Introduce your family to nature – North then pause to soak up the surroundings. to try stand up paddle boarding, and 665-0795, or go to tourismvernon.com. Okanagan style – at Allan Brooks Nature Take a round at The Rise, a traditional Kalavida Surf Shop can get the whole When in town, visit the new Centre with its 360-degree outlooks. links and coastal mountain golf experience family on board with this wonderful Vernon Visitor Centre at 3004 39th Watch 10,000 honeybees in action at in the orchard-lined mountains of Vernon. watersport, including the dog. Avenue to see what’s going on during the apiary at Planet Bee’s Honey Farm. Its patio has the best views in town. Cast about for salmon and trout in your stay.

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 15 14-05-21 12:20 PM BC16

This is our playground. Davison Orchards Okanagan Spirits Make it yours. Don Weixl Don Weixl

Spring has Sprung in the Okanagan! Entertowin PredatorRidge Kalavida Surf Shop ashortstayatwww.vernonmakeityours.com Morten Byskov

1.855.640.6406

KalamalkaLake Thomas Bullock

DiscoverBC_Jun07.indd 16 14-05-21 12:20 PM