Feast your eyes on one of the finest retreats to experience Vancouver’s breathtaking marina, harbor, peak, and sparkling glass skyscraper vistas which is the Westin Bayshore Hotel. Positionedin close proximity to Stanley Park, it’s also only a brief stroll to the harbor, and in the vicinity of numerous dining choices. Renowned among locals and visitors alike, this hotel has been a hub of Vancouver’s charm since its establishment in 1961.
This grand hotel, encompassing 10 levels, boasts 465 chambers and suites, in addition to a relaxation haven, dining establishments, cutting-edge fitness center, spacious conference halls and a distinguished venue for gatherings. Throughout the warmer months, Coal Harbor is bustling with numerous cruise ships and seaplanes setting off during all hours.
This establishment is a favored option for travelers before setting sail or after disembarking from a cruise, as well as families seeking a more tranquil setting complemented by a sizable circular heated swimming pool.
Howard Hughes took up residence at the hotel for nearly half a year when it was known as the Bayshore Inn. Legend has it that he remained incognito, never crossing the threshold of his quarters.
In the afternoon, the pool becomes a popular oasis for unwinding, swimming, and relishing live musical performances on the al fresco dining terrace at H Kitchen and Tasting. A staff member, pedaling an ice cream cart, graciously offers complimentary ice cream to guests. By the spa, another staff member distributes customized donuts or packets of popcorn.
Adjacent to the pool lies an apiary or bee yard where beehives brimming with honey bees are housed. The culinary and beverage establishments of the hotel artfully infuse honey and honeycomb into their libations and dishes. This hotel’s hospitable environment for wildlife earned it a certification from the Canadian Wildlife Federation. It stands as the inaugural hotel to be bestowed this honor for its exquisite gardens and commitment to various species of wildlife.
DINE AT THE WESTIN BAYSHORE
H Tasting Lounge (HTL) offers sumptuous Pacific Northwest fare overlooking a lush park and the waterfront. It transforms into a favored outdoor dining spot during the summer season. As the temperature dips, the terrace features warming fire elements and heaters, in addition to the option for diners to nestle in cozy translucent dining domes.
The drink selection showcases local craft beer, British Columbia wine straight from the barrel, and cocktails concocted with spirits distilled locally.
On the menu, you’ll discover a seafood tower filled with coastal Northwest delicacies, lobster rolls, and fish tacos. The bountiful HTL Smash Burger and delectable Bao Buns Char Sui are fan favorites. Don’t miss out on indulging in their remarkable dessert spread adorned with slices of cake, macarons, and cotton candy.
For those seeking a whimsical tea experience in the afternoon, relish sweet and savory morsels presented on a golden Ferris wheel.
TAKE A SPIN ON A BIKE
Guests are offered gratis bicycles to traverse the city on designated cycling pathways. Vancouver, with the implementation of the Greenest City 2020 Action plan, is swiftly solidifying its status as a top-tier cycling destination. These cycling routes offer a delightful means to soak in the city’s attractions and waterfront charm.
In the event that all of the hotel’s bicycles are in use, bike rental shops are abundant on nearly every block. Head over to Cycle City Tours situated on Burrard and Hornby Street to rent bikes on an hourly or full-day basis. They provide group tours or you can set off to explore solo on their bicycles.
UNVEIL STANLEY PARK
Stanley Park features a leisurely, flat, six-mile paved seaside cycling trail for locals and tourists alike to explore the park’s historic and vibrant sights sprawled across the expanse of its 1,000 acres. Make a stop to admire the First Nations Totem Poles at Brockton Point. Continue onward to the Lions Gate Bridge where all cruise ships, cargo vessels, and boats gently glide under to reach the open sea. Debuting in 1938, the moniker ‘Lions Gate’ references a duo of mountaintops north of Vancouver, as well as a pair of concrete lions sculpted by artist Charles Marega that were stationed on either side of the bridge in 1939.
SIGHTS AT STANLEY PARK
Proceed to take notice of a statue depicting a ‘Girl in a Wetsuit’ perched on a rock in the channel. This sculpture, gifted by artist Elek Imredy to the Vancouver Park Board in 1972, symbolizes Vancouver’s reliance on the sea.
A vibrant wooden dragon head replicates the SS Empress of Japan Figurehead. The ocean liner SS Empress of Japan traversed the Pacific Ocean over 400 times. The original figurehead is housed at the Vancouver Maritime Museum.
An intriguing sight is that of Siwash Rock, isolated across the water from the seawall, with a tree flourishing atop it. Its origins date back a staggering 32 million years. According to Squamish folklore, a man was transformed into rock as a reward for his selflessness.
EMBARK ON A FERRY RIDE
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the waterways aboard one of the False Creek Ferries. Secure a Hop-On and Hop-Off pass to journey to 9 distinct stops throughout the day. Explore the Granville Bridge and Island which were formerly bustling with industrial activity housing factories and sawmills back in the early 1900s. Today, these areas have been revitalized into the Granville Island Public Market, teeming with an array of fresh produce options, as well as international fast-casual dining selections. This locale now stands as one of the most esteemed cultural districts adorned with theaters, artisan workshops, and craft boutiques.
The ferry voyages also include stops at vibrant Yaletown, the BC Place Stadium, Rogers Arena, the former 2010 Olympic Athletes Village, and Science World. Enjoy panoramic vistas encompassing Sunset Beach, the North Shore mountains, the West End skyline, Vanier Park, and Heritage Harbor during your leisurely cruise.
SIP + SAVOR
While on Granville Island, don’t miss the chance to relish a meal at the relaxed Alimentaria Mexicana Cantina offering authentic and outstanding South-of-the-Border culinary delights. Treat yourself to a timeless margarita, zesty Paloma, agave flight, or a non-alcoholic creation before delving into Executive Chef Ernesto Gomez’s delectable guacamole complemented by crispy chips. Among the favored menu selections are a chargrilled and slightly charred red cabbage salad and crispy cauliflower tacos.
A petite boutique housed within the eatery offers a display and retailing of artisanal items hailing from small villages and farms in Mexico.
Post-feast, take a leisurely stroll around Granville Island only to discover that it is, in fact, a peninsula rather than an island.
ART ABOUND
Witness first-hand the transformation of Granville Island’s bygone industrial traits into vibrant beauty at the working Ocean Concrete manufacturer where six vividly painted ‘GIANTS’ cement silos stand. Identical twin graffiti artists – Otavio and Gustavo Pandolfo, known as OSGEMEOS, commenced their mural artistry in 1987. Their ‘GIANTS’ mural adorns Granville Island, alongside other international locations such as streets and galleries.
WHIMSICAL ARTISTRY
Vancouver boasts a flourishing art scene both indoors and outdoors. The Vancouver Biennale, a charitable non-profit organization, presents captivating public art installations revitalizing urban landscapes. This Open Art Museum endeavors to make public art accessible to everyone.
While meandering through Yaletown, make sure to catch a glimpse of the colossal two-ton, 18-foot red ‘Proud Youth’ sculpture sculpted by Chinese artisan Chen Wenling. His creation was inspired by the novel ‘The Smiling, Proud Wanderer’ authored by Xiao Ao Jiang Hu.
The vibrant red hue not only signifies Chinese tradition but also pays homage to the artist’s fervent approach towards life. The Vancouver Biennale festival website proclaims, ‘The naked and uninhibited figure epitomizes his integrity and audacity.’
Venture to English Bay where Morton Park hosts a captivating art installation. Fourteen sculptures titled ‘A-maze-ing Laughter’ crafted by artist Yue Minjun grace this space. These whimsical bronze sculptures, tinged with a patina, present the artist ‘in a state of hysterical laughter.’ They were generously bestowed by Chip and Shannon Wilson through the Wilson5 Foundation to the City of Vancouver on August 11, 2012, with the intention to evoke laughter and playfulness in all who encounter this artwork.
Additional artwork can be savored at the Vancouver Art Gallery nestled in the heart of the city. Established in 1931, this institution stands as a beacon of innovation and inspiration in the realm of visual arts, championing regional talents.
Explore further locales in Destination Vancouver to Delight, Reside, and Cycle through when embarking on a sojourn to Vancouver, B.C.
Image Source: Dan Breckwoldt / Shutterstock
