We made the decision to visit during the school holidays, which meant we were limited to the weeks from mid-July to mid-August. Luckily, the first three weeks of August were perfect for us – the weather was ideal and we had already researched some must-visit places.
We wanted to make sure our vacation was a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and of course, indulging in the delicious local cuisine. We wanted to create unforgettable memories for our little ones and ourselves alike. Plus, it was an incredible opportunity to reconnect with our family in Canada.
Throughout the trip, we faced various challenges, such as weather and time constraints, but overcame them with proper planning and flexibility. This incredible journey to British Columbia in 2023 has left an indelible mark on our family, and we highly recommend it to anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Key Takeaways
- Our family tailored our vacation to include outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and delicious local food.
- Proper planning and flexibility were essential in overcoming challenges during the trip.
- The unforgettable journey to British Columbia in 2023 left a lasting impression on our family.
Preparations
As we planned our trip to British Columbia in 2023, we knew we had to start with some essential preparations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation. In this section, we will discuss our preparations, including booking flights, renting a motorhome, finding campgrounds and accommodations, and scouting places to eat.
Some of the tools we have used I mentioned in my blog under the section”Itineraries & Tools“.
Flights
To kick off our adventure in British Columbia, Canada, we had to first sort out our flights. We searched for the best deals and most convenient routes from our home country to land in this picturesque destination within North America.
We recommend booking your flights well in advance to secure a good deal, and to monitor any required travel documents or restrictions that may change. That’s why we highly recommend booking your flights early – you could save hundreds of dollars!
If you’re planning to visit Canada in the summer, we suggest booking your flights between late fall and the end of the year before. By doing so, you’ll have a better chance of getting the best deals and securing your preferred travel dates.
Motorhome
Once our flights were organized, we knew renting a motorhome would be the perfect way to explore the stunning landscapes and vast forests that British Columbia has to offer.
On one hand, we looked into companies offering RV rentals, comparing prices, sizes, and amenities to pick the ideal motorhome for our family. For this particular case I usually check the offerings on www.motorhomerepublic.com and compare them with the ones from SK-Touristik, a specialized travel agency for Canada in Germany.
This choice gave us the freedom to roam the beautiful Canadian wilderness at our own pace, while maintaining comfort and convenience throughout the journey.
We probably think though to use a car for our next Canadian adventure in two years.
Campgrounds & Accommodations
With our RV all set, we were ready to dive into the exciting world of camping in British Columbia. The province offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, and even a variety of RV parks and campgrounds.
As a family with two kids, we knew we wanted to stay at campgrounds where the little ones could play with other kids and swim whenever they wanted. That’s why we looked for places with full hook-up (electricity, water, and our own dumping station), as well as access to a lake or river.
Although our average cost per place was a bit higher at around CAD 50, it was worth every penny for the peace of mind and convenience it provided. As the kids get older and more independent, we might not need a place with full hook-up at every spot in the future.
Sometimes, the most beautiful places are the ones with no services at all, which can be more budget-friendly but might not always be optimal depending on the age of the children.
Next on our list was finding a reasonable hotel in Vancouver. During high season, prices can be rather steep, but we had some non-negotiables:
- A central location for easy walking access
- A room big enough for the kids to have their own space
- Family-friendly amenities, and a
- Decent rating on Google and TripAdvisor.
Besides, it was our daughter’s first time in Vancouver, so we wanted to show her the city, which was another reason for a central location, which why we stayed in the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel.
However, looking forward, we wouldn’t want to stay in the city anymore, nor in a hotel. There are cheaper and more beautiful options in the suburbs that offer the chance to let the kids run free without worrying about traffic.
In general, we selected locations that provided easy access to nearby attractions while still being surrounded by nature.
One last piece of advice – always book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as popular destinations can fill up quickly.
Grocery-stores and places to eat
Last but certainly not least, we made it a priority to indulge in the mouth-watering local cuisine that British Columbia is famous for. We compiled a comprehensive list of recommended eateries in the areas we planned to visit, covering a wide range of options from upscale dining experiences to cozy cafes and even food trucks.
Some of the restaurants I had already covered in a previous blog post, while others we stumbled upon during our travels. We also made sure to ask locals for their favorite places to eat and scoured online reviews to find hidden gems that fit our family’s tastes and budget.
But it wasn’t just about dining out – we also wanted to experience the joy of cooking with local ingredients. That’s why we made sure to research the best places to buy groceries.
Fortunately, I had previously compiled a list of some of the top grocery stores in Canada for savvy shoppers in one of my blog posts, which you can find here: Unlock Savings: Top 10 Must-Visit Grocery Stores in Canada for Savvy Shoppers.
Start of the Trip
What we packed, what we bougth in Canada
If you’re planning a summer holiday in British Columbia, it’s important to pack the right gear to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Especially with kids you might even consider to bring some extra clothes on top.
What we reccomend to pack:
- Comfortable and breathable clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, and lightweight pants. Depending what you plan to-do you might want to consider some nice clothes for going out too.
- Sweaters and long sleeved shirts, as it might cool down quite fast in the evening.
- Good pair of walking shoes, water and beach shoes, and hiking boots if you plan to explore the great outdoors
- Don’t forget to pack a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
- A light rain jacket and trousers in case of unexpected showers.
- Hygiene products and medicines including some type of first-aid kitt
- Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture all the amazing sights and experiences you’ll have during your summer holiday in British Columbia!
Things we recommend buying in at a local grocery store:
- Bugs repellent. We usally use the ones from OFF! for adults and one for the kids.
- Bear spray, but you need to fill out a form, and show an ID (yous must be at least 18 years old)
Day 1 – Travel Zurich to Vancouver
In 2023, our family’s dream of visiting British Columbia became a reality! Our journey began with a 10-hour flight from Zurich to Vancouver on July 28th. Despite feeling exhausted, we were eager to explore the picturesque Canadian city, renowned for its stunning parks, vibrant city, and scenic landscapes.
Upon arrival, we faced the challenge of finding transportation to our hotel. Unfortunately, our hotel did not offer shuttle service, so we had to wait in line for a taxi. Despite the inconvenience, we arrived safely in downtown Vancouver for C$ 40.
We selected the centrally located Coast Coal Hotel in Downtown Vancouver, which made it easier for us to explore the city with our children. After a lengthy check-in process, we finally received our room key-cards on the 17th floor. We quickly purchased some forgotten hygiene items and headed to Coal Harbour for a leisurely stroll next to the ocean towards the Convention Centre. We were thrilled to witness seaplanes taking off and landing. However, due to exhaustion, we decided to take a break and enjoy some coffee and dessert at McDonald’s before returning to our hotel.
For dinner, we visited the Japanese BBQ Restaurant, “Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ,” located near Nelson Street. Unfortunately, our children were so exhausted that they nearly fell asleep during dinner, and we had been awake for almost 24 hours. It was time to return to the hotel for some much-needed rest.
Despite the exhaustion, our first day in Vancouver was unforgettable.
Day 2 – Pick-up Motorhome and 1st Campground in Hope
On our second day, we had to rise early as our shuttle service to the RV renting station was scheduled for 8:15 AM. With kids, we always need to plan extra time to ensure we’re ready on time. We headed to the hotel restaurant for breakfast at 7 AM to guarantee we were prepared for the pick-up.
Despite being punctual like a Swiss clock, the shuttle was delayed by almost 30 minutes. Nevertheless, it eventually arrived and transported us to the Fraserway RV renting station in Richmond, where we completed the necessary rental forms. After a tour of our motorhome and a check for any damages, we were ready to unpack our luggage.
We stopped for a delicious Texas BBQ meat platter consisting of ribs, brisket, and pulled pork at Texas Smoke BBQ in Langley around noon. After satisfying our hunger, we headed to Walmart for our first grocery stop before making our way to the Coquihalla Campground in Hope.
The campground is situated along the Coquihalla River, surrounded by a coastal forest that provides a serene atmosphere for a relaxing vacation. The campsites were well-maintained and spacious, with full hookups available for our convenience. Additionally, the playground nearby kept our kids entertained.
Overall, we had a fantastic experience at the Coquihalla Campground in Hope. We highly recommend this picturesque and peaceful campground to anyone looking for a camping experience in the area.
Day 3 & 4 – West Kelowna & Wibit Splash Park
After enjoying a lovely morning and breakfast, we headed to Hope. Our first stop was Memorial Park, which features a fantastic playground for children. After letting the kids burn off some energy, we explored the charming town of Hope, bought souvenirs and fresh fruits, and snapped obligatory pictures. Don’t forget to take a photo with one of the chainsaw wooden statues, as Hope is the chainsaw carving capital of Canada.
Next, we embarked on the infamous Coquihalla Highway, also known as the “highway of hell.” This challenging 303 km, 4-lane highway offers breathtaking views and unpredictable weather conditions, making it one of the most beautiful and dangerous roads in North America. We stopped in Merritt for lunch and then drove on Highway 97C to West Kelowna to spend two days with our family.
We arrived just in time for a delicious dinner with tacos, good wine, and great company. The next day, we enjoyed a typical Canadian breakfast together with crepes, syrup, and berries. After preparing some sandwiches for lunch, we headed to Kelowna beach, where we bought tickets for the Wibit water playground.
The Wibit is an exciting inflatable water park that offers a variety of obstacles and challenges for kids and adults alike. After an exhausting but fun afternoon, we headed to the Parlour Ice Cream for some delicious ice cream to recharge our energy. We then returned home for another tasty dinner with burgers and enjoyable conversations.
Before going to bed, the kids had a lot of fun playing together outside of the trampolin. They didn’t want to go to bed at all. But eventually they went to bed and crashed as they were super tired. We then enjoyed a beautiful and relaxing summer evening before heading to bed too.
Our family in Kelowna lives in a beautiful and charming neighborhood surrounded by nature and space. We cherished every moment of our visit, it was calm, a lot of nature and space.
Day 5 & 6 – Summit Lake
Day 5
On the fifth day, we bid farewell to our relatives, but we knew we would meet them again in a few days in Horsefly with the rest of the family. We urgently needed to restock our groceries, so we headed to the Save-on-Foods in West Kelowna and picked up some beer from the nearby liquor store. Additionally, I purchased some working trousers at Mark’s, and we refueled our RV.
Our journey continued to Summit Lake via Vernon and Needles. We booked our next campground, Camp Valhalla, which provides the ultimate camping retreat experience on the shores of Summit Lake in beautiful British Columbia. With pristine lakeside camping, endless recreation opportunities, and breathtaking natural scenery, it is the perfect place for everyone, including your furry friends.
Upon arrival, we settled into our campsite and inspected the area for activities to do the next day. As we arrived at dinnertime, we only had time to prepare dinner. We used the grill we purchased at Canadian Tire in Langley, which was a great investment and allowed us to prepare half of our meals outside of the motorhome.
After dinner, we washed up and prepared for bed. Book your stay at Camp Valhalla for an unforgettable camping experience in beautiful British Columbia.
Day 6
On the sixth day, we decided to take a break from planning and enjoy a stress-free day. Before preparing breakfast, we caught a glimpse of the sunrise at the lake and checked out the beach. Even though it was around 8 o’clock, the lake was calm, and only a few boats were out fishing. Our youngest daughter even dipped her feet in the surprisingly warm water.
While I prepared breakfast with my better half, the kids went to the playground. Thanks to our new grill, we could make bacon and eggs without stinking up the camper. After breakfast, we cleaned up using the cleaning sink provided by the campground.
We all prepared for a swim in the lake and went to the office to rent a boat. When we returned, the kids were ready for a day at the beach. We brought our camping chairs and towels and found a spot on the beach since there weren’t many people there yet.
We spent the entire day at the beach, and the kids had a blast playing with other children, feeding ducks, jumping from the floating dock, swimming, and riding SUPs. We only took breaks for lunch and dinner, and overall, it was one of the best days of our lives. The children made new friends, and we did too. We even sat down with a couple and chatted about anything and everything while the kids played at the playground.
As we had a long day ahead, we had to break up the fun and head to bed.
Day 7 – Hot Springs & Revelstoke
On the seventh day, we had a lot planned. Our first stop was Halcyon Hot Springs, but we also needed to find a laundry to wash our clothes. After breakfast, we exchanged numbers and addresses with our new friends and prepared to leave. We filled up our gas tank at the nearest fuel station and drove for around 20 minutes to Halcyon Hot Springs Resort.
Surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, Halcyon Hot Springs offers a unique and unforgettable experience. We spent around two hours swimming in the pools and even had the option to sleep in cabins or chalets and book spa treatments. The resort also provided towels and had a clean showering area.
After leaving the resort, we snacked in the RV and agreed to have a proper meal in Revelstoke. We drove on the road towards Revelstoke and stopped at Galena Bay to cross the Upper Arrow Lake by ferry. Fortunately, we didn’t have to wait too long and arrived at Shelter Bay after around 20 minutes.
We arrived at the laundry in Revelstoke after another 30 minutes and headed to Save-on-Foods to buy groceries for the next two days. We also checked out a promising restaurant called “Emo’s Pizza & Grill” and had dinner there. The food was surprisingly good, but unfortunately, it was already late, and we couldn’t explore the mountain town further.
After dinner and finishing our laundry, we drove to Crazy Creek Resort for one night. This family-friendly resort boasts a large water park, hiking trails, and other fun activities for all ages. As we arrived late, we didn’t have the chance to see the pools and other amenities and settled in for the night. However, we quickly realized that the mosquitos were more aggressive than before, and we had our first bug stings.
Hence, we had no interests to stay outside for too long and prepared rather early than late for bed.
Day 8 – From The Enchanted Forest to Hathaway Lake
Today’s itinerary was even tougher than the previous day. Like yesterday, the sky was smokey due to wildfires nearby. In fact, this was goint to be big topic of that trip. Our first stop was the Enchanted Forest, followed by a visit to Hathaway Lake in Lone Bute.
During our trip, we had two longer drives, and we later realized that this was the longest one. Despite this, we knew we still had quite a road ahead of us. So, after eating breakfast and packing up, we drove for only 10 minutes to reach the Enchanted Forest.
The Enchanted Forest is a step into a world of enchantment and wonder. This whimsical roadside attraction is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a magical and unforgettable experience. It is indeed a magical place for kids and adults to discover over 350 jolly fairy figurines. And taking pictures of the unusual fairy tale figurines made from cement by the talented and imaginative Doris Needham is a must.
The forest is surrounded by towering cedars and 800-year-old trees, and visitors can explore the magical place on a lush boardwalk. There are also tiny houses and treehouses to be explored.
And if anyone needs to escape the hustle in the Enchanted Forest, either there is an option to take on the nature walk, which lets you dive in fully in the outstanding beauty of this piece on earth or you could choose an attraction with more action.
Next to the enchanted world is the SkyTrek Adventure Park. With ziplines, monkey bars, nets, bridges, sky swings, and climbing walls, there’s something for everyone. In other words, plan enough time to do both attractions. Unfortunately, our schedule didn’t allow us to explore this park too.
After leaving the parks behind, we headed to Moosehaven Resort & Campground on Hathaway Lake. However, before reaching our destination, we needed to stop at Canadian Tire and Save-On-Foods to pick up some supplies. We decided to make this stop in Salmon Arm, a charming town in the region.
Around lunchtime, we were already feeling a bit hungry, so we stopped at the Shuswap Lake Rest Area, located on Highway 1 shortly after Sicamous. Unfortunately, due to the heavy smoke from the wildfires, it was impossible to see the lake. After enjoying a nice pasta break, we drove to Salmon Arm to buy our supplies. While there, we also visited the next Tim Hortons, where we finally convinced our children to try their awfully delicious donuts.
Our oldest daughter is now a huge fan of the Timbits, despite being certain she wouldn’t like them. My wife and I ordered a tall coffee and a Quencher, respectively, which turned out to be a wise decision.
Our journey ahead of us was longer than anticipated, and we became acutely aware of the smoke in Salmon Arm. The visibility was poor, and the air was filled with the smell of smoke. As we continued driving, the situation only got worse, and we eventually found ourselves on a closed road. We had to figure out a new route, and although Google Maps initially led us astray, we eventually found our way back on track. Our detour brought us back to Tim Hortons in Salmon Arm, resulting in a loss of around two hours due to the wrong navigation and the closed road.
Thankfully, I had called the campground in advance to ensure our site was still available and that we could arrive late. The owner was kind enough to give us an even better spot. We had initially planned to take a road that passes Adams Lake, but we later learned of a heavy wildfire in the area. Our detour took us through Kamloops and Little Fort.
After almost seven hours on the road, we finally arrived at Moosehaven Resort & Campground on Hathaway Lake. Although we arrived late in the evening, we could tell right away that it was an extraordinary place. However, we also quickly became acquainted with the bugs, which seemed to have been waiting for us.
After checking in at the office, we settled in for the next two nights, prepared a small dinner, and went to bed. It was an exciting trip that left us exhausted, and we knew that the next day we wanted to do nothing other than rent a boat and relax on the serene Hathaway Lake.
Day 9 – Moosehaven Resort & Campground
After a thrilling trip the previous day, we slept soundly and woke up to a stunning sunrise at Moosehaven Resort & Campground on Hathaway Lake. With a sunny and warm day ahead, we enjoyed the picturesque view of the lake while sipping a mandatory coffee from Tim Hortons. We were grateful that the owner had given us a site with a perfect view of the lake at the last minute.
As usual, we prepared our standard breakfast of eggs, bacon, bread, bagels, jam, and butter before discussing our plans for the day. We knew there was a fishing derby happening on Hathaway Lake, and we wanted to participate if possible. We also wanted to rent a boat or pedalo and swim in the lake. Although we had initially planned to drive to Clearwater and Helmcken Falls, we decided to relax and stay put after the previous day’s adventure.
After breakfast, we spoke to the owner, Russ, to find out how we could participate in the derby and rent a boat or pedalo. He advised against fishing without a license, especially on derby days when there is a high chance of getting caught. We decided to rent a pedalo and pay for the duration we used it.
After taking care of some administrative tasks, we had some fun at our site, playing cards, making soap bubbles, and even having a model show directed by our oldest daughter. After lunch, we brought camping chairs and towels to the swimming area and tried to swim in the lake. We quickly realized that the water was much fresher than the one at Summit Lake, so we jumped in and out. We had a lot of fun, and the nature surrounding us was mesmerizing.
After a while, we decided to go on the pedalo, which turned out to be more exhausting than we thought with only tow out of four people pedaling. However, it was worth it, as the lake was so clear that we could see the ground in certain places. After a short while, our kids got bored, so we decided to move around a little island and get back to our place for another short swim.
Although we missed the fishing derby, as we didn’t know where the ranking ceremonies were, so it was okay. The owner, Russ, mentioned that there would have been hot dogs and other foods.
Before dinner, we all took a shower, and I tried the shower in the bathroom for all visitors of the resort, which was pretty clean. When I returned, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Russ had left us two Kokanee Salmon for dinner. As he advised us to eat them on the same day, we prepared the salmon for dinner. Russ was kind enough to gut the fish for us, and all we had to do was cut filet pieces out of them.
While we were cooking, Russ stopped by again and told us that the campground fox, “Scruffy,” was there. The kids went with him to see the fox, but we stayed behind to look after the food. Although the fox didn’t come to our site, we were blessed with deer walking through the campground. While we ate dinner, another pair of deer munched on grasses close by.
After a super delicious dinner, we prepared for the night, did the dishes, and the children enjoyed a short movie night.
Days 10 – 16: Horsefly, BC
Day 10: Hathaway Lake, 100-Mile House, Horsefly
On our 10th day, we were excited to see the rest of our family in Horsefly, Canada. We started preparing our RV and packing up everything in the morning. Before leaving Moosehaven Resort & Campground, we headed to the office to pay for our spot and the Pedalo ride, which was the only campground where we had to pay on the day of leaving. Besides, Michelle and Russ are superb hosts and we recommend this hidden gem in the Cariboo to everyone. You won’t even need an RV as you could book cabins too.
Before hitting the road, we made sure to give our children something to eat. We stopped at Tim Hortons in 100 Mile House for breakfast and made a short detour to Save-On-Foods. After filling our gas tank, we drove directly to Horsefly with a few stops along the way.
We arrived in the early afternoon and spent the rest of the day with my Canadian parents, as the rest of the Canadian siblings weren’t at home yet. We had already agreed to stay at the house of one of the siblings, who arrived shortly after we finished dinner. We spent some time with the kids at the nearby river before heading to their home.
A little side-note, the Canadian family/siblings I write about here aren’t blood-related. Nonetheless, we have known each other for over 35 years and are so close that they are not only friends but also like brothers/sisters or parents to me.
Day 11: Canadian breakfast, farm work, swimming
The day after, we enjoyed a classic breakfast of pancakes before helping out with ranch chores. This time, we had to build a fence for the horses. After lunch, we headed to the Horsefly River, which was a short and adventurous walk over a street and down a steep hill. Before leaving, we prepared spareribs in the slow cooker for dinner.
The river was gorgeous, and we had a lot of fun swimming, fishing, playing with the dogs, and relaxing. When we returned to their home, the kids immediately went into the hot tub, and we prepared dinner.
Everyone had a lot of fun riding horses and spending time together. However, we were soon eaten by mosquitoes, so we headed back inside the house.
The little ones were tired, and so were we, so we prepared for bed. Overall, an awesome day.
Day 12: Gym, Gaming, Cinema
As it was a rainy day, we took it easy and discussed what we could do. After thinking it over, my sister’s husband and I decided to hit the indoor gym while the kids played video games and the others did some household and administrative tasks.
We planned to go to an indoor pool area, but it closed early, so it wasn’t an option. But, we went to Williams Lake to do some grocery shopping. My wife and I stayed with the kids on the playground where there is usually a farmers market. After that, we went to a great sushi place and then to the cinema with the children to watch the newest Turtle movie. My Canadian sister went to a baseball game at the same time.
She picked us up as soon as the film was over, and we drove back home, wrapped everything up, and went to bed.
Day 13: Shooting, Pizza, and fun at home
So far, we had a great time with our family in Canada. Our children, as well as theirs, always got up late as each single day was packed with action.
This day was no different from the others, as it was warm enough to run around, play, and splash with water. The day started with the little ones running around in their pajamas and hunting frogs.
As soon as we were dressed, we decided to do a shooting practice with their rifles. It was a first-time experience for my wife and our eldest daughter. All of us shot at milk plastic bottles and Tetra packs, hitting them successfully.
Later on, all the children of the other siblings joined us on the ranch of the oldest sister. They had a great afternoon together, playing in a treehouse, hunting in the swamp for toads, and sliding down a water slide.
Definitely, they all had a blast. Later, we went to the parent’s ranch and made and ate homemade pizza. With all of the family together, cramped in the gazebo, it was pretty lively and loud.
As soon as we went back home, we sent the children to bed, while we sat together and played a Swiss-Game called “Brändi-Dog,” which is one of the best games we have ever played. After that, we concluded another great day.
Day 14: Cows and anniversary
Today’s program was fully packed as we celebrated a wedding anniversary. We had to deliver the present that the other sister made for her better half to their house, and it was essential that he would not see it before the celebration. The present was a dirt bike, which we brought to their house.
After delivering the present, we went to the ranch of the parents. As we were all in Horsefly, my Canadian father decided to split some of the cow herds up. My Canadian sisters brought their horses, while we came with the ATVs. After some chasing of cows and splitting the herd, which was admittedly a lot of fun, we headed back to the ranch, respectively back home.
Back at my sister’s house, my eldest daughter got another chance to ride a horse, and I helped my sister’s husband build a slider for the treehouse. Soon after that, we left for the anniversary celebration, where our youngest daughter got the chance to drive the whole way. On our way back, the eldest daughter got the chance to drive home.
While the kids went to bed, we prepared for another gaming evening, and this time my Canadian brother and his wife joined us as well playing Brändi-Dog. After the match, we all went to bed. This day was packed with action and wonderful experiences.
Day 15: Family day and last day
Today’s program was fully packed as it was our last full day in Horsefly. We helped out on the ranch by finishing the horse fences and the slider for the treehouse. Unfortunately, we also had to prepare and pack up things as we needed to leave the following day.
Apart from that, we wanted to have some fun as a family, so we agreed to meet at the school in the afternoon to play some baseball and have fun. Overall, we had a lot of fun, and it was a beautiful way to end this extraordinary week. Besides, our kiddos got the first chance at playing Baseball.
To top it off, the whole family was invited for dinner at the ranch of the parents. The kids had the opportunity to play and let out some steam and energy, while we enjoyed the company and good discussions.
After the kids got tired, we headed back home. This time, my sister’s children got the chance to drive to the ranch and back.
At home, the kids enjoyed the last evening with a movie night, while most of the siblings came over for another gaming night with Brändi-Dog of course and Ligretto. It was a beautiful evening, and we couldn’t hope to enjoy our last evening in any other way.
Day 16: From Horsefly to Burnaby
Today’s program was fully packed as it was our last day in Horsefly. We made another delicious Canadian breakfast and prepared French toasts. Then it was time to pack up everything and say our goodbyes, which is always the hardest part as it is never easy to leave your family behind.
Although we will see them in two years, when everything works out, it still seems like an eternity.
Nonetheless, our children enjoyed the last few minutes, we took some pictures, and then we had to leave as we needed to drive all the way down to Burnaby that day. This road alone will take us around seven hours.
Therefore, we headed straight to the homes of my other Canadian siblings and parents to say goodbye. The first stop after leaving Horsefly was 150-Mile House, where we had to refuel the RV.
Next, we stopped at 100-Mile House for a lunch break. This time we didn’t go to Tim Hortons, but instead, we ate and drank at The Chartreuse Moose. They have scrumptious homemade meals, and the interior of the place is super charming and cozy too. After satisfying our tummies, we jumped right back in our vehicle and took off.
On our further ride, we only made short toilet and driver change breaks. Our last stop before our final campground was in Hope at Tim Hortons. Little did we know, it was actually our last stop at a Tim Hortons for this holiday.
In Hope, we had a shock when we heard an alarm tone coming from our RV. Not long after, we found out that gas was leaking somewhere and realized the stove was turned on. So we had to turn off everything and open all windows.
This helped to get rid of the alarm sound, and we were ready to move on. Eventually, we arrived late at the campground in Burnaby, and we spent our last night in the camper. We all didn’t sleep very well.
On one hand, we had to deal with our emotions, and on the other hand, we weren’t used to sleeping in an urban place anymore. We heard trains coming and going all the time, sirens, and traffic. Apart from that, it was a rather warm night.
Days 17 – 21: Vancouver, BC
Day 17: Vancouver – Back to civilzation
After having breakfast and packing some of the last things, we prepared our camper for the final time and unhooked everything. Before leaving the campground, we made sure that we hadn’t forgotten anything and eventually left.
After a short drive of around 20 minutes, we were almost back at the renting station of Fraserway RV. First, we had to refill our camper for the last time. It was also the first time we realized how big the tank is, which we figured must be around 160 liters.
We noticed that we were back in an urban area as the gas prices were noticeably more expensive than at all the other places we had been. Generally, gas prices were much higher than the last time we were in Canada. We paid around CAD 1,000 alone for gas, which was certainly CAD 300-400 more than last time.
After refilling the tank and cleaning the mirrors and windows of mosquitos and bugs, we drove around the corner to Fraserway. For returning the RV, we had to drive in the lane for returning vehicles. Our next task was to retrieve our luggage, which we had left at the station.
As soon as we picked them up, we immediately started packing everything, which took some time. Some of the stuff we couldn’t use anymore, but fortunately, Fraserway has a shed where travelers can leave their unused items. This way, other travelers have the chance to get some basic necessities before heading to the first grocery store.
After packing up, we waited for an employee to check our RV and complete our check-out. The only thing left was to wait for the shuttle service to Downtown Vancouver, which brought us back to the hotel where we had stayed on our first night.
After checking in at the Coast Coal Hotel, we brought everything upstairs, unpacked what we needed, and reorganized our suitcases. This way, we didn’t need to have everything ready, and we could store away the clothes we needed for the outback that weren’t necessary for Vancouver. We were lucky to get a room on the floor with a view of Coal Harbour and Stanley Park.
We filled the drawers and closets with the clothes we would need for the week and then headed to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, where we had rented a car from “Access Rent A Car.”
After taking over the car, we went to a nearby laundry just behind Melriches Coffeehouse. While waiting for the laundry to finish, we went to Melriches Coffeehouse for a little snack. My girls all had a fresh smoothie, while I enjoyed a coffee. We also explored Davie Street a bit.
As soon as the washing was done, we drove back to the hotel, stored our clothes, and relaxed a bit before having dinner.
For dinner, we decided to have sushi and went to Sushi California, which was only a 5-minute walk away. The food was plenty and scrumptious and worth every penny. We also tried a Vancouver sushi specialty, Abur Sushi.
The only downside was that the service staff gave us the impression that they wanted to get rid of us sooner rather than later. They took away the dishes without even asking if we were done. So, overall, it was a rather unwelcoming atmosphere, although the food was scrumptious. The most important thing was that our children were satisfied.
As soon as we were done, we headed back to our hotel and enjoyed a lazy evening. We were all tired from sleeping badly and the exhausting travel from the previous day.
Day 18: From Beaches to Splash-Parks and Markets
As soon as we woke up, we prepared for the day ahead, knowing that we wanted to visit Kitsilano Beach, which had been recommended to us. We made sure to wear our bathing suits and headed to Red Umbrella Cafe for breakfast. This iconic Vancouver coffeehouse uses only local and homemade products, and the portions are generous, leaving us feeling satisfied and never hungry.
After breakfast, we headed to Kits Beach, also known as Kitsilano Beach, which offers stunning views of downtown Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains. It’s the perfect urban oasis to relax and soak up the sun, whether you want to swim, paddleboard, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family.
After spending around two hours at the beach, we decided to head to the splash park on Granville Island. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find a spot to park our car, so we drove to Foxe’s Den Splash Park in Stanley Park instead.
The splash park was an awesome place for our kids to run around and play with other children while we relaxed and enjoyed ourselves. Later on, we strengthened ourselves at the Lumberman’s Arch Concession Café with gelato and coffee, where we even spotted a black squirrel hustling for its food.
Afterwards, we decided to try our luck again and head to Granville Island, but this time we took a different approach. We parked at Sunset Beach and headed to the False Creek Ferry station Aquatic Center, which brings visitors to Granville Island within 5 minutes for just a few bucks.
Once we arrived at Granville Island, we headed straight to the market. We strolled through and bought various things, including fresh fruits, honeys, maple syrups, and maple BBQ sauces, which we wanted to bring home. We also bought freshly baked food and something to drink.
As it was getting late, we headed back to our car and drove back to our hotel. After everyone took a shower, we went out to find something for dinner. This time, we wanted to try something special, so we drove to an area we hadn’t been to yet in Vancouver, called Downlow Chicken Shack. It was a place that had been on my to-do list for a long time.
Their menu offers various dishes, mainly with southern-style fried chicken, from sandwiches to wings to tenders. There is something for everyone. Three of us ate different types of chicken burgers, and the youngest one had tenders and fries. We genuinely said that these were the best chicken burgers we had ever eaten, and the tenders were extraordinary too.
The only downside was that we had to eat inside as all the seats outside were taken. It was very loud and warm, but the service was extraordinary and kind.
Overall, the extra drive was worthwhile and showed impressively that the best restaurants aren’t always in the city center, and it doesn’t have to be a super fancy restaurant either. Sometimes these simple food joints are more than enough.
After another exciting and satisfying day with great food, we drove back to our hotel and got ready for bed.
Day 19: From shopping to outdoor adventures and a stop at the ocean
On this day, we had a few things planned. First, we needed to visit the laundry again, and then we planned to have our first and only shopping day, which we wanted to combine with an excursion to the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
We made ourselves ready in the morning with a bag full of clothes and drove to the laundry. As soon as the drying cycle started, we headed to Red Umbrella Cafe again for breakfast and to get a table in the meantime. After getting seated, we ordered our food, and I quickly drove back to get our clothes out of the laundry. Once I returned, we ate our breakfast and started buying the first things before dropping off our stuff at the hotel.
Next, we drove to Park Royal Shopping Centre in West Vancouver. It’s a beautiful and huge mall where it’s much more relaxed and less hectic to stroll through the stores and buy clothes, books, or whatever you need. Downtown stores or the biggest one in BC in Burnaby are super hectic, and it’s not enjoyable to look for things.
After buying something to drink, we drove to Capilano Suspension Bridge. Although I had been there before, I wanted to show this park to my wife and youngest kid. However, I must admit that it was quite an expensive experience compared to the last time I was there.
But, walking among the treetops and taking in the breathtaking views of the rainforest and mountains beyond is a truly unforgettable experience. The Cliffwalk and Treetops Adventure are must-see attractions that add a thrilling element to your visit. Additionally, the forest offers children a little scavenger hunt, allowing them to experience this beautiful place at their own speed and in their own way.
We had a lot of fun at Capilano Suspension Bridge, and it was a welcoming change from the bustling city of Vancouver. However, I was surprised to find that the air in the forest was quite humid and hot. To cool off, we indulged in ice cream.
After our exciting adventure, we were quite hungry and decided to have dinner. I always wanted to show my girls Deep Cove, so we drove to a tiny eatery there, just a 20-minute drive away.
When we arrived in Deep Cove, we had some difficulty finding a spot as everything was almost taken. We went directly to our restaurant, Deepwater Micro Eatery, which is a small bar with a cozy atmosphere, offering a great selection of homemade comfort food made with regional products. From tacos and burgers to fish and chips, there is something for everyone. Our children loved it and asked to eat there again.
After our delicious meal, we headed to the beach and enjoyed the beautiful evening atmosphere. The sight blew us all away, and it felt like we were back in the beautiful nature we had on our camping trip. It was incredible to think that downtown Vancouver was only a 30-minute drive away.
Our kiddos loved the place too and were happy to be able to run around and play with other kids without needing to care for any passing cars. We decided to come back the next day and spend the afternoon in Deep Cove, even getting the chance to eat at the micro eatery again.
Although we missed our Canadian family, it was another superb day that left us feeling totally happy. After packing up and getting ready for bed, we fell soundly asleep.
Day 20: Day at the beach
As we were so taken with Deep Cove beach from the day before, we decided to spend most of the day there. First things first, we had to prepare and leave for breakfast, and we went to our usual spot, Red Umbrella Cafe, for another scrumptious meal. We tried a new breakfast plate every day and were never disappointed. After breakfast, we headed to the nearby stores to buy some things for our bunnies at home and some wine and beer to bring back.
Next, we went to Robson Street to buy clothes for the children that we couldn’t find the day before and some presents for family and friends. Once we were done, we stopped at the hotel and brought everything to our room before putting on sunscreen and heading to Deep Cove.
We were greeted with another extraordinary sight, and we realized it was low tide, which meant we were able to walk out quite a bit. It was a beautiful afternoon, and our children were able to experience the ocean in a different way. They found tiny crabs everywhere and even a sea star in the water, which was super cool for them to see other animals than just fish.
Our children went in the water with us, and when they had enough, they went to the playground at the same place. While we stayed there, it was interesting to see how the tide rose over time. The area reminded us of our camping trip, with nature all around, calmness, and many families enjoying the area. It was a great spot to linger and relax.
We enjoyed Deep Cove so much that we might even consider staying there instead of a hotel in downtown Vancouver next time.
In the early evening, we went back to the same place we had dinner the night before, only to find it closed. Unfortunately, we didn’t check beforehand if it would be open, and we found out that it’s usually closed on Wednesdays. We were disappointed to miss out on trying the world-famous honey doughnuts at the place next door too, which closes at 5 o’clock.
But, we found another gem just 10 minutes away from Deep Cove in Dollarton Village called Scratch Kitchen. It offers a variety of foods featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a selection of local brews. With its lively and charming atmosphere, it definitely offers guests a unique experience.
Although we were a bit hesitant to try their pizza as we are used to real Italian-style pizza, we were pleasantly surprised. It was scrumptious, and I would definitely go there again for one of their menus. Our kids loved it too, which is always a good indicator.
After dinner, we were all tired, so we headed straight back to the hotel and got ready for bed.
Day 21: Last Day – Sightseeing with the bicycle
To celebrate our last day in Vancouver, we did our final laundry before preparing for the day and leaving the hotel. While waiting for the first part of the washing to finish, we went to Melriches Coffeehouse.
After washing our clothes and leaving them in the dryer, we drove to our favorite breakfast place and ordered the best items on the menu, from eggs to pancakes, omelets, and bacon.
Once we finished breakfast, we headed straight to Spokes Bicycle Rentals to rent bikes for a ride around Stanley Park. The weather was perfect for it, and our first stop was at Hallelujah Point, which offered a superb view of the Vancouver skyline. We then stopped agian at the splash park “The Fox’s Den”. Fortunately, I told the kids beforhand to wear their swimsuits und the clothes.
We didn’t stay as long as the last time due to the cost of renting the bikes (the longer the ride, the more it costs) and our desire to see what was ahead on our tour. Fortunately, there were several sections on the route where visitors need to get off their bikes (like at the splash park), providing an opportunity to take in the scenery and take some pictures. Depending on how much time you have, you can also stop at several beaches with children.
During low tide, it’s possible to find sea stars and other ocean animals at Stanley Park. Our next stop on the route was just under the Lions Gate Bridge, although there is also another way to get to the bridge from above in Stanley Park, which we left for another day.
We drove ahead and enjoyed the scenery, although it wasn’t always easy as the road was quite busy with other tourists. Once we passed Siwash Rock, we stopped at Third Beach for a breather. Our youngest daughter and I took off our shoes and explored the beach, which was much nicer than Kits Beach. We agreed that we would come back here next time.
After taking in the sights, we moved on and stopped at a coffee shop at Second Beach, where my girls ordered ice cream, and I sipped a coffee. With the playground nearby, they had another chance to run around with other children.
We then happily drove back to the bike rental station, proud of having ridden 9 kilometers on our bikes. After returning the bikes, we headed back to our hotel to find a place for our last dinner. We chose the Stanley Park Brewing Restaurant, which offers comfort food.
After recharging, we went to Gastown to buy our last souvenirs at the Hudson House, the best place to find souvenirs and great clothes. They even had some great offers for North Face during our visit.
After completing our final things on the to-do souvenir list, we drove to the Stanley Park Brewing Restaurant, but unfortunately, we were unable to make any reservations and were a bit late. We couldn’t find an available spot for us, except for one next to a live band, which would have been too loud.
However, the restaurant offered us the option of ordering our meal to-go and eating it in their Biergarten, which we found to be a great idea. Not only were we able to enjoy the beautiful evening atmosphere in Stanley Park, but our kids could also run around as much as they wanted. The food was really good, with a variety of comfort food dishes, handcrafted beers, and fresh, locally sourced ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience. The cozy and inviting atmosphere was perfect for a night out with friends, and we definitely plan to come back.
Sadly, the day came to an end, and we needed to return our rented car. After filling up the tank, we walked back to our hotel, packed everything, prepared for our journey back home, and went to bed.
Day 22: Time to say goodby, Vancouver to Zurich
On the final day of our adventure, we had to wake up early as our plane was scheduled to leave around 10 am, and we wanted to be there three hours in advance to ensure we had enough time. Our hotel ordered a taxi for us, and we made it to the airport around 7 am, feeling sad that our trip had come to an end.
Since our flight would be passing over Toronto, we had to walk to the area with national flights. However, when we printed out our tickets and tried to leave our luggage, we found that all of our suitcases were too heavy, with one being 700 grams overweight.
While the check-in process was more efficient, it was also more painful as the machines didn’t give us any leeway if our luggage was even slightly overweight. After some time, we finally repacked our stuff in a way that would be accepted by the machines, and luckily, all of our suitcases went through.
We then headed to passport control and looked for a breakfast spot, although it wasn’t as good as the Red Umbrella Café, of course. As time passed quickly, we searched for our gate, went to Relays to find something for the kids, and made it just in time for boarding.
Eventually, we boarded the plane and took off, but unfortunately, due to wildfires, we couldn’t see much. However, it was impressive to see how huge they were and the area they covered. We also noticed that morning that it was a bit smoky around Vancouver.
Overall, our flight to Toronto was smooth and pleasant, and we had around three hours to pass in the airport, which went by quickly. We prefer stopovers of around two to three hours when we can’t fly directly, as it’s not too stressful to get from one gate to another, and there’s still time to buy things or sit down to eat. It also increases the chance that all of our luggage will make it home with us.
During our layover, we sat down to eat, and the girls looked for magazines or books at Relays. We weren’t in a hurry to change gates, and before we knew it, it was time to board our final leg.
The flight from Toronto to Zurich took another 7-8 hours, and we made sure the kids got some sleep. Unlike on our flight to Vancouver, we were fortunately enough to have one spare seat, so one of our kids could lay down and sleep instead of being squeezed between seats.
After another nice and smooth flight, we landed in Zurich and were surprised to be picked up by my parents and nephew. My mum took our luggage home, and we took the train. My oldest sister waited for us at the train station and drove us home.
It was one of our most beautiful and memorable holidays, especially for our children, but not only. While we were happy to be back, we also missed our Canadian family and the country itself. Perhaps one day, we could live there, even if it’s just for a few months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our trip to British Columbia in 2023 was an incredible adventure that exceeded our expectations. From stunning sights to delicious local cuisine, we made unforgettable memories and even formed new connections with the people we met along the way.
Reflecting on our trip, we realized that there are a few things we would do differently next time.
- We would check seating reservations for our flights well in advance.
- Consider traveling with a car to save money on fuel and rental costs, and to have access to a wider range of accommodations. Many hotels, motels, cabins, BnBs, and AirBnBs offer kitchens and are often located in beautiful areas similar to campgrounds. The only downside is that you’ll have to live out of your luggage, but the convenience and cost savings may be worth it.
- To make the most of your time in British Columbia, we consider spending less time in Vancouver the next time and book a place in the suburbs where the kids can enjoy the great outdoors. These areas offer plenty of nature and are still within a 30-minute drive of the city center. By staying in the suburbs, you’ll have the best of both worlds: easy access to Vancouver’s attractions and a peaceful retreat for your family.
Overall, our trip to British Columbia was an unforgettable experience that we will cherish for years to come. We highly recommend exploring this beautiful province, and traveling with a car to make the most of your time there. We can’t wait to plan our next adventure in 2025!