(Updated March 2022) With morning sun twinkling on the Rocky Mountain backdrop, turn of the century red brick buildings line main street like a picture perfect film set. Rich aromas of brewing espresso escape over outdoor flower boxes. We decide sipping coffee at one of the quaint breakfast spots will be first on our list of things to do in Fernie BC (British Columbia). That and watching for potential film crews in what is surely one of the cutest towns in Canada. Historic downtown Fernie Telling friends we are planning a visit to this mountain escape, they assume we are planning a winter trip. “Oh you are going skiing in Fernie?” With an average snowfall of 39 feet, to ski Fernie is considered one of the musts for any downhill enthusiast. We, however, are here to take advantage of the consistently warm Fernie weather in the summertime. Not to mention the lack of crowds, in comparison to nearby National Parks. No time to read this right now? Click to watch our video of Fernie things to do. With thanks to Tourism Fernie for their contributions of photos at the aerial park. Table of Contents Toggle 10 Things to do in Fernie Canada in Summer Ride the river – Stand up paddle boarding Go climb a tree – Fernie Alpine Park Where to stay in Fernie Hiking in mountain bliss Walk back in time – Heritage Walking Tour Big Bang Bagels – Environmentally friendly things to do in Fernie Dinner with a view – Bridge Bistro Delicious things to do in Fernie -Bean to Bar chocolate No ordinary arts and crafts – Coal Town Goods Bird watching Where is Fernie BC? 10 Things to do in Fernie Canada in Summer Ride the river – Stand up paddle boarding I admit this time my adventure-loving self thinks, “Why did I believe this was a good idea?” Open mouthed I gaze at the speed of the water of Elk River, winding through Fernie. The idea that I will actually stand on a paddleboard seems remote. Balance is not one of my strongest suits. I imagine I will spend a lot of time in the water rather than on the water. Our guide is not to be deterred. After a one hour flat-water lesson, with Mountain High Adventures, where falling is one of the skills practiced, we head to the river. We’re standing and smiling on the Elk River With my wider and more stable paddleboard, selected for me likely due to my nervous chattering, I spend the first part of the float on my knees. With some encouragement and a great deal of coaching, I manage to stand up. And stay standing! For those wanting a more relaxing float, rafting, kayaking or riding a 17 foot stand up paddleboard called the SupSquatch with your family or friends is also available. Go climb a tree – Fernie Alpine Park Did you like to climb trees as a kid? Growing up on a farm I loved scaling branches. I also recall a lot of tumbling out of those trees! Taking tree climbing to a whole new level, and a much safer one, Fernie Alpine Resort offers tree adventures on high. Known primarily as a downhill ski resort, from June to September, Fernie Alpine Resort provides aerial obstacles and mini zip lines. Aerial Park Fernie Alpine Resort – Photo credit Tourism Fernie Wearing harnesses, and attached to metal cables at all times, the guides keep a watchful eye on squealing participants in the treetops. Obstacles such as the Nitro Swing and Leap of Faith vary in difficulty and test upper body and core strength. I really should do more Pilates. Looking 30 feet below, as one walks the plank or the tight rope wire, it’s a fun, adrenaline-inducing adventure from beginning to end. The Fernie Aerial Park brought back many long lost childhood memories of being in the trees. Thankfully without the pain of falling out of them. That’s us in the trees at Fernie Aerial Park – Photo credit Tourism Fernie Where to stay in Fernie The thrill of sleeping on a one inch pad and hoping the pouring rain outside will not form a creek through our tent has worn off over the decades. The immaculate Fernie RV Resort, situated next to the Elk River, offers a smorgasbord of camping choices. From the basic tent sites, RV pull through spots and yurts, there is a multitude of Fernie accommodations to choose from. How’s that for a campground backdrop? The gem of a Fernie campground offers amazing family style private bathrooms with hot shower and toilets. Commercial laundry facilities are on site. A children’s playground and open green spaces provide space for recreational activities. For Fernie lodging offering the adventure of camping without the hassle of gear, the forest side yurts are a great choice. Although there are multiple hotels in Fernie, the resort gives the feel of wilderness with the convenience of being close to town. Hiking in mountain bliss The problem with hiking in Fernie is trying to decide where to begin. As we often do when travelling, we ask locals for suggestions. With heads spinning at the multitude of Fernie hikes, we choose Fairy Creek Falls. With its easy access and parking at the Fernie Visitor Centre, the 4 km trail round trip is one we easily fit in before heading back to Calgary. Fairy statue at Fairy Creek Falls The short hike leads to a stop-in-your-tracks view of the falls. As a tiny statue of a fairy looks on, the mist swirls and sparkles in the sunshine. Although we didn’t see another soul on the hike, locals tell us it is a popular trail. Our advice is always to go early, be bear prepared as this is wilderness, and dogs must be kept on leash. Fairy Creek Falls Walk back in time – Heritage Walking Tour If one were to look for the definition of perseverance, the early settlers of Fernie are a fitting example. In 1904 when the town’s commercial district of blacksmith shops and retail stores, supporting the growing coal mining industry and the Canadian Pacific Railroad, burned to ashes, the town was rebuilt. In 1908, when virtually the entire town was destroyed in a firestorm, again Fernie was reconstructed. This time in brick and rubblestone from the nearby Elk River. Fernie Heritage Library Today those turn of the century architectural marvels remain. A Heritage Walking Tour takes you to a dozen sites including the Fernie Courthouse, which still fulfills its original purpose. The Romanesque Revival style of the Fernie Post Office now houses the Fernie library. The walking tour guide can be found at the Fernie Museum. There on the main floor, an impressive history of the town’s past is on display. Upstairs a gallery space houses ever changing exhibits and special events. Fernie Court House Big Bang Bagels – Environmentally friendly things to do in Fernie With much talk and hand wringing about the tsunami of plastic waste, Big Bang Bagels is not only talking, but they are also making a bold move. Along with their reasonably priced, hand-rolled and boiled bagels, they offer NO disposable coffee cups. Their aim is ZERO waste. You can bring your own mug, buy one or rent one of theirs. Big Bang Bagels Yes, you can put a deposit on a mug and keep it for an hour, a day or a month. When the mug comes back you get your deposit back. One of the little places in Fernie to eat that is making a big statement on waste reduction. While we munch our delicious bagel sandwiches, a couple leaves after learning they can’t have disposable cups. Clearly, the restaurant is making some financial sacrifices with their long term goal of educating patrons and helping planet earth. Bravo we say! Dinner with a view – Bridge Bistro Not being foodies, the eclectic and casual style of dining in Fernie suits us well. The diversity of international cuisine choices mirrors the early settlers. From sushi to South American tapas, pizzas to hamburgers. Locals support locals with featured British Columbia wines and beers, often at the top of menus. On the deck of the Bridge Bistro, we gaze at the rushing waters of the Elk River. “I actually stood up on a paddleboard right there!” It may be possible I exclaimed that at a volume higher than necessary at my excitement of it all. Cheers from the deck of Bridge Bistro overlooking the Elk River We toast the accomplishment as evening light on the mountains provides a magical, panoramic backdrop. Delicious things to do in Fernie -Bean to Bar chocolate The tantalizing aroma of chocolate lures us nose first into Beanpod Chocolate, Coffee and Gelato. The family run business is the only Bean to Bar company in Canada where chocolate, taking an average of five days to reach perfection, is made in traditional methods. Once inside, our noses press against the glass wall of the small factory. There, in a 100 year old ‘conche’, a batch of pure deliciousness is stirring. Chocolate stirring in the conche Chocolate truffles on display The owner and master chocolate maker is adamant that quality will not be compromised. No preservatives, no additives and sustainable farming of the beans imported are mandatory at Beanpod. We join others at the counter attempting not to drool in the decision making process between gelato, hand made macaroons, truffles and chocolate bars. No ordinary arts and crafts – Coal Town Goods With adventure synonymous with the town, there is no shortage of stores to meet the clothing and gear needs of hikers, cyclists, skiers and snowboarders. Handcrafted goods from local artisans and makers line the walls of the tiny boutique Coal Town Goods. The name, a tribute to the creative and hardworking beginnings of the area, is a community minded store celebrating the diversity of those who fill the small shop with unique finds. Looking angelic? Dumpster art Art can be found on almost every corner of this mountain gem town. I dare you to find a dumpster that has not been turned into a creative canvas. The self guided walking art tour feels to us more like a treasure hunt filled with outdoor murals, galleries and the Fernie Art Coop featuring over 50 local artists. Bird watching Stepping along the soft forest trail, bird choir practice is in full swing. Barely knowing a heron from a hummingbird, bird experts we are not. However one does not need to be knowledgeable on all things feather related to appreciate the treetop symphony going on near Fernie. Birdwatching near Fernie – Photo credit Tourism Fernie With five different ecosystems, the area is world renowned for its bird watching wonders. In a Fernie activities brochure, 29 bird species from bald eagles to yellow warblers are listed. If you are not a seasoned birdwatcher and want to see the birds rather than just hear them, we suggest booking a guided tour. More information can be obtained at the Fernie Visitor Information Centre. Where is Fernie BC? Nestled in the southeast corner of British Columbia Canada, Fernie is a 3 hour drive from Calgary. Situated on the Crowsnest Pass Highway or Highway 3, the mountain paradise is a half hour drive from the Alberta border and a 40 minute drive north of the US border. From Vancouver to Fernie the drive is approximately 11 hours. We have included a Fernie map below and more information on reaching this idyllic getaway can be found here. Fernie BC map What would be your top pick of things to do in Fernie? Want to save this for later? PIN these to your Pinterest travel board. With thanks to Tourism Fernie for hosting our stay. Fernie in summer was a complete delight and surprise. All opinions are our own.

(Updated March 2022) With morning sun twinkling on the Rocky Mountain backdrop, turn of the century red brick buildings line main street like a picture perfect film set. Rich aromas of brewing espresso escape over outdoor flower boxes. We decide sipping coffee at one of the quaint breakfast spots will be first on our list of things to do in Fernie BC (British Columbia). That and watching for potential film crews in what is surely one of the cutest towns in Canada. Historic downtown Fernie Telling friends we are planning a visit to this mountain escape, they assume we are planning a winter trip. “Oh you are going skiing in Fernie?” With an average snowfall of 39 feet, to ski Fernie is considered one of the musts for any downhill enthusiast. We, however, are here to take advantage of the consistently warm Fernie weather in the summertime. Not to mention the lack of crowds, in comparison to nearby National Parks. No time to read this right now? Click to watch our video of Fernie things to do. With thanks to Tourism Fernie for their contributions of photos at the aerial park. Table of Contents Toggle 10 Things to do in Fernie Canada in Summer Ride the river – Stand up paddle boarding Go climb a tree – Fernie Alpine Park Where to stay in Fernie Hiking in mountain bliss Walk back in time – Heritage Walking Tour Big Bang Bagels – Environmentally friendly things to do in Fernie Dinner with a view – Bridge Bistro Delicious things to do in Fernie -Bean to Bar chocolate No ordinary arts and crafts – Coal Town Goods Bird watching Where is Fernie BC? 10 Things to do in Fernie Canada in Summer Ride the river – Stand up paddle boarding I admit this time my adventure-loving self thinks, “Why did I believe this was a good idea?” Open mouthed I gaze at the speed of the water of Elk River, winding through Fernie. The idea that I will actually stand on a paddleboard seems remote. Balance is not one of my strongest suits. I imagine I will spend a lot of time in the water rather than on the water. Our guide is not to be deterred. After a one hour flat-water lesson, with Mountain High Adventures, where falling is one of the skills practiced, we head to the river. We’re standing and smiling on the Elk River With my wider and more stable paddleboard, selected for me likely due to my nervous chattering, I spend the first part of the float on my knees. With some encouragement and a great deal of coaching, I manage to stand up. And stay standing! For those wanting a more relaxing float, rafting, kayaking or riding a 17 foot stand up paddleboard called the SupSquatch with your family or friends is also available. Go climb a tree – Fernie Alpine Park Did you like to climb trees as a kid? Growing up on a farm I loved scaling branches. I also recall a lot of tumbling out of those trees! Taking tree climbing to a whole new level, and a much safer one, Fernie Alpine Resort offers tree adventures on high. Known primarily as a downhill ski resort, from June to September, Fernie Alpine Resort provides aerial obstacles and mini zip lines. Aerial Park Fernie Alpine Resort – Photo credit Tourism Fernie Wearing harnesses, and attached to metal cables at all times, the guides keep a watchful eye on squealing participants in the treetops. Obstacles such as the Nitro Swing and Leap of Faith vary in difficulty and test upper body and core strength. I really should do more Pilates. Looking 30 feet below, as one walks the plank or the tight rope wire, it’s a fun, adrenaline-inducing adventure from beginning to end. The Fernie Aerial Park brought back many long lost childhood memories of being in the trees. Thankfully without the pain of falling out of them. That’s us in the trees at Fernie Aerial Park – Photo credit Tourism Fernie Where to stay in Fernie The thrill of sleeping on a one inch pad and hoping the pouring rain outside will not form a creek through our tent has worn off over the decades. The immaculate Fernie RV Resort, situated next to the Elk River, offers a smorgasbord of camping choices. From the basic tent sites, RV pull through spots and yurts, there is a multitude of Fernie accommodations to choose from. How’s that for a campground backdrop? The gem of a Fernie campground offers amazing family style private bathrooms with hot shower and toilets. Commercial laundry facilities are on site. A children’s playground and open green spaces provide space for recreational activities. For Fernie lodging offering the adventure of camping without the hassle of gear, the forest side yurts are a great choice. Although there are multiple hotels in Fernie, the resort gives the feel of wilderness with the convenience of being close to town. Hiking in mountain bliss The problem with hiking in Fernie is trying to decide where to begin. As we often do when travelling, we ask locals for suggestions. With heads spinning at the multitude of Fernie hikes, we choose Fairy Creek Falls. With its easy access and parking at the Fernie Visitor Centre, the 4 km trail round trip is one we easily fit in before heading back to Calgary. Fairy statue at Fairy Creek Falls The short hike leads to a stop-in-your-tracks view of the falls. As a tiny statue of a fairy looks on, the mist swirls and sparkles in the sunshine. Although we didn’t see another soul on the hike, locals tell us it is a popular trail. Our advice is always to go early, be bear prepared as this is wilderness, and dogs must be kept on leash. Fairy Creek Falls Walk back in time – Heritage Walking Tour If one were to look for the definition of perseverance, the early settlers of Fernie are a fitting example. In 1904 when the town’s commercial district of blacksmith shops and retail stores, supporting the growing coal mining industry and the Canadian Pacific Railroad, burned to ashes, the town was rebuilt. In 1908, when virtually the entire town was destroyed in a firestorm, again Fernie was reconstructed. This time in brick and rubblestone from the nearby Elk River. Fernie Heritage Library Today those turn of the century architectural marvels remain. A Heritage Walking Tour takes you to a dozen sites including the Fernie Courthouse, which still fulfills its original purpose. The Romanesque Revival style of the Fernie Post Office now houses the Fernie library. The walking tour guide can be found at the Fernie Museum. There on the main floor, an impressive history of the town’s past is on display. Upstairs a gallery space houses ever changing exhibits and special events. Fernie Court House Big Bang Bagels – Environmentally friendly things to do in Fernie With much talk and hand wringing about the tsunami of plastic waste, Big Bang Bagels is not only talking, but they are also making a bold move. Along with their reasonably priced, hand-rolled and boiled bagels, they offer NO disposable coffee cups. Their aim is ZERO waste. You can bring your own mug, buy one or rent one of theirs. Big Bang Bagels Yes, you can put a deposit on a mug and keep it for an hour, a day or a month. When the mug comes back you get your deposit back. One of the little places in Fernie to eat that is making a big statement on waste reduction. While we munch our delicious bagel sandwiches, a couple leaves after learning they can’t have disposable cups. Clearly, the restaurant is making some financial sacrifices with their long term goal of educating patrons and helping planet earth. Bravo we say! Dinner with a view – Bridge Bistro Not being foodies, the eclectic and casual style of dining in Fernie suits us well. The diversity of international cuisine choices mirrors the early settlers. From sushi to South American tapas, pizzas to hamburgers. Locals support locals with featured British Columbia wines and beers, often at the top of menus. On the deck of the Bridge Bistro, we gaze at the rushing waters of the Elk River. “I actually stood up on a paddleboard right there!” It may be possible I exclaimed that at a volume higher than necessary at my excitement of it all. Cheers from the deck of Bridge Bistro overlooking the Elk River We toast the accomplishment as evening light on the mountains provides a magical, panoramic backdrop. Delicious things to do in Fernie -Bean to Bar chocolate The tantalizing aroma of chocolate lures us nose first into Beanpod Chocolate, Coffee and Gelato. The family run business is the only Bean to Bar company in Canada where chocolate, taking an average of five days to reach perfection, is made in traditional methods. Once inside, our noses press against the glass wall of the small factory. There, in a 100 year old ‘conche’, a batch of pure deliciousness is stirring. Chocolate stirring in the conche Chocolate truffles on display The owner and master chocolate maker is adamant that quality will not be compromised. No preservatives, no additives and sustainable farming of the beans imported are mandatory at Beanpod. We join others at the counter attempting not to drool in the decision making process between gelato, hand made macaroons, truffles and chocolate bars. No ordinary arts and crafts – Coal Town Goods With adventure synonymous with the town, there is no shortage of stores to meet the clothing and gear needs of hikers, cyclists, skiers and snowboarders. Handcrafted goods from local artisans and makers line the walls of the tiny boutique Coal Town Goods. The name, a tribute to the creative and hardworking beginnings of the area, is a community minded store celebrating the diversity of those who fill the small shop with unique finds. Looking angelic? Dumpster art Art can be found on almost every corner of this mountain gem town. I dare you to find a dumpster that has not been turned into a creative canvas. The self guided walking art tour feels to us more like a treasure hunt filled with outdoor murals, galleries and the Fernie Art Coop featuring over 50 local artists. Bird watching Stepping along the soft forest trail, bird choir practice is in full swing. Barely knowing a heron from a hummingbird, bird experts we are not. However one does not need to be knowledgeable on all things feather related to appreciate the treetop symphony going on near Fernie. Birdwatching near Fernie – Photo credit Tourism Fernie With five different ecosystems, the area is world renowned for its bird watching wonders. In a Fernie activities brochure, 29 bird species from bald eagles to yellow warblers are listed. If you are not a seasoned birdwatcher and want to see the birds rather than just hear them, we suggest booking a guided tour. More information can be obtained at the Fernie Visitor Information Centre. Where is Fernie BC? Nestled in the southeast corner of British Columbia Canada, Fernie is a 3 hour drive from Calgary. Situated on the Crowsnest Pass Highway or Highway 3, the mountain paradise is a half hour drive from the Alberta border and a 40 minute drive north of the US border. From Vancouver to Fernie the drive is approximately 11 hours. We have included a Fernie map below and more information on reaching this idyllic getaway can be found here. Fernie BC map What would be your top pick of things to do in Fernie? Want to save this for later? PIN these to your Pinterest travel board. With thanks to Tourism Fernie for hosting our stay. Fernie in summer was a complete delight and surprise. All opinions are our own.

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I avert my eyes from my friend’s disbelief. “You’ve never been to Radium? How is that possible? It’s just a few hours away!” In defense I mumble that I’ve driven by the Radium Hot Springs a couple of decades ago. “No the village of Radium Hot Springs!” She speaks as though I am having difficulty hearing her. Less than three hours from Calgary, where we have lived for over thirty years, I admit I know nothing about the things to do in Radium Hot Springs, well other than the fact Radium has hot springs. “You do know about the Bighorn mountain sheep though. Right?” I ashamedly shake my head. “They have mountain sheep in the Village of Radium Hot Springs?” “No, in the Radium Hot Springs pools.” She is teasing now. “Well not in the summer, but in the spring, the mountain sheep are all over the place until they move to higher ground for when the lambs are born. In the fall they come back down to the village of Radium for their famous head banging routines to impress the females.” Sounds more like a headache routine. Yet who can resist the idea of herds of sheep wandering around a mountain village? Where is Radium Hot Springs? Located at the edge of Kootenay National Park in British Columbia, Canada, the Village of Radium Hot Springs is 250 km. (155 mi.) west of Calgary, and 135 km. (84 mi.) west of Banff. The Radium Hot Springs Mineral Pools are within the national park, just prior to entering the village of Radium. Nestled in the Columbia Valley, the village sits between the Rocky Mountains to the east and the Purcell Mountains to the west. The Columbia River runs just west of the village. 15 Things To Do In Radium Hot Springs and Area No time to read this now? Click on our 3 minute video below to see the beauty of Radium Hot Springs. Is there a bear out there? What is the difference between a mountain goat and a mountain sheep? Are there bears on the hiking trails? What does a tick look like? How is an antler different from a horn? Open 362 days a year, the Radium Hot Springs Visitor Information Centre is no ordinary tourist booth. Filled with wildlife and educational displays, the destination education centre staff are available with up to date knowledge on safely enjoying the great outdoors in the Columbia Valley. Learning to co-exist with the wildlife for which Radium is famous for, makes a stop at the Radium Hot Springs Visitor Information Centre an important one. Radium Hot Springs Visitor Information Centre The Visitor Centre counsellors can also assist with questions about Radium Hot Springs hotels and places to visit in Radium Hot Springs and the surrounding area. Golfing with mountain sheep When I tell the golf pro at The Springs Course in Radium I would be more comfortable jumping off a cliff than trying golf, I am only half joking. Having never golfed in my life, and apparently missing the gene for eye-hand coordination, I now find myself with club in hand in Radium Hot Springs. Sue and the mountain sheep gallery A smiling Sue with the most patient golf pro on the earth. Just the thought of crowds of experienced golfers impatiently glancing at their watches while I mercilessly swing at a ball, that refuses to move, makes my hands sweat. With the pro’s soothing voice, simple instructions and a gallery of mountain sheep looking on, I manage to hit the ball and not send the golf club into the side of anyone’s head. There is not another golfer in sight on this spring day. Just the scenery of majestic mountains and mountain sheep wandering in the distance. Dave and I end up playing nine holes and even I will admit to having fun. The only crowds on the course are mountain sheep Vegetarian bannock at Elevations Restaurant – The Springs Course Clubhouse Lunch with a view – Patio at Elevations Restaurant Don’t judge a restaurant by its horse It’s not every day you see a towering metal stallion, rearing on hind legs, outside a restaurant, let alone in a quaint village setting. Albeit an impressive art installation, I suspect the vegetarian choices inside Horsethief Creek Pub may taste like the boards the horse is balancing on. “Oh come on I’m sure it will be fine. “Hubby’s nose is pulling him toward the savory smells of BBQ wafting from the restaurant. The evening becomes a classic you-were-right-and-I-was-wrong couples moment. Finding the Horsethief filled with locals, I am surprised by all of the vegetarian choices along with more traditional meat fare. While inhaling a scrumptious spinach burger, I manage to steal a few sweet and salty yam fries from Dave’s plate. He’s too busy with his smoky chicken burger to notice anyway. Sweet and salty yam fries Spinach burger Hanging with the sheep at Bighorn Meadows Resort “You’ve got to see this!” At the moment Dave bellows from our deck at Bighorn Meadows, I happen to be putting refreshments in the fridge to cool. Startling at his exuberance, my head and the fridge have an unfriendly meeting. I soon forget any discomfort at the sight before me. A herd of Bighorn mountain sheep are strolling by on the 9th hole of the golf course outside our window. Gazing at the mountain sheep visitors from our deck Thinking it might be a most unusual occurrence, we incessantly snap photos. As it turns out, in spring, these four-legged visitors stroll by frequently. I suggest to my husband we could invite them to use the hot tub. Or perhaps in for coffee, since likely we could fit the whole lot of them in our suite. Dave showing how it’s done on the 9th hole with Bighorn Meadows Resort in the background He suggests we stick to taking photos. Radium Hot Springs Pool Truthfully, I have not been a fan of hot springs. Something about the smell of rotten eggs that takes the fun out of it for me. I click my heels with glee, or attempt to, when I learn the Radium Hot Springs are odourless. We spend the spring evening gazing at mountain sheep on the rocky cliffs surrounding the pool while soaking in the warmth of clear mineral water. Perhaps a dozen other people are taking advantage of the early season before Canada’s largest spring fed pool becomes frenzied with high season tourists. A visit to the hot springs is one of the top things to do in Radium Hot Springs. More information such as Radium Hot Springs hours can be found here. Radium Hot Springs hiking trails An easy walk along Sinclair Creek Gurgling its way through the the village of Radium Hot Springs, the Sinclair Creek is ours to walk alone this spring morning. As tree buds begin to bulge, awakening from winter slumber, the soothing sounds of the water provide background music for nature’s unfolding. Looking for more challenging hiking trails, we head to the Valleyview Trail which starts near the Radium Visitor Centre. Alternatively, one can drive to the Valleyview Lookout picnic area. Gazing over the Columbia Valley, the village or Radium quietly lays below. Meeting the locals on the Valleyview trail above the village of Radium Hot Springs Not far from the lookout, four Bighorn sheep rest, as if placed in a photo shoot above the village of Radium Hot Springs. We keep a respectful distance. Can I have coffee and pie for breakfast? Freshly baked pies in Radium Hot Springs BC Having once baked pies in a home business venture, I can spot quality homemade pastries at a glance. At Radium’s Big Horn Cafe, I manage to pull myself away from the callings of Sour Cherry and Strawberry-Rhubarb and settle in with a latte and a melt-in-my-mouth mixed berry scone. As locals swap stories, visitors come by ordering sandwiches to go, for hikes and adventures around the Radium area. I sip my latte and keep an eye on the pies. Stations of the Cross Wheelchair accessable path along the Radium Hot Springs Staions of the Cross Ask frequent visitors about what to do in Radium Hot Springs and very few will have found this unique activity. Directly behind the Radium Visitor Centre, is an outdoor walking path of the Stations of the Cross. With admission on a donation basis, the life sized sculptures are a public prayer path. Especially significant to those who celebrate Easter, the outdoor stations see an influx of visitors in the spring. Olive Lake Clouds admiring themselves in pristine Olive Lake near Radium Hot Springs Shimmering in the sunlight, the pristine lake, 13 km. (8 mi.) east of the village or Radium Hot Springs, peacefully absorbs its spring water source. Archaeological finds confirm that Indigenous hunting parties camped at the idyllic oasis centuries ago. Now, an easy walk from the parking lot and picnic area, we check our camera settings. Could the water truly be that emerald green? On this spring day, the gem of Radium Hot Springs attractions is ours alone to enjoy. Kootenay Valley View Point Heading toward Radium BC from Calgary, parking for the stunning Kootenay Valley View Point is on the right hand side of Highway 93. Clutching Dave’s hand as we sprint across the curving highway, I am grateful for the lack of traffic on this spring day. Kootenay Valley Viewpoint I announce that I would not attempt that highway crossing is in the summer, pedestrian sign or not. I am no sissy by any means, but the thought of crossing the road in the midst of high season with tourists distracted by the gobmacking view, leaves me shaking. It is definitely a Radium Hot Springs location not to miss. We suggest driving from Radium 16 km. (10 mi.) east, where parking will then be on the same side of the road as the lookout. How did the fish cross the road? Covered picnic area next to the educational park at Dolly Varden off Highway 93 The Dolly Varden Day Use Area, 37 km. (23 mi.) east of Radium, British Columbia on Highway 93, serves as an educational park. Like neighbouring Banff National Park, Kootenay National Park has constructed multiple wildlife crossings. Decreasing collisions and promoting natural migration patterns, the crossings serve as a animal protection model for countries around the world. The Dolly Varden presents a miniature version of the crossings where children and adults alike can burn off road trip energy while learning about how humans are helping animals cross the road. Numa Falls Although Numa Falls is not visible the mountain backdrop is spectacular. “Do not even think about going through that hole in the fence!” My husband knows my adventurous ways and the gap someone has torn in the safety barrier is tempting. Due to a bridge wash out, the Numa Falls trail is currently inaccessible, as are views of the falls. Instead we enjoy our snack on a picnic table as the Vermilion River babbles its way through a spectacular mountain backdrop. One can imagine the crush of summer crowds at this spectacular stop 80 km. (50 mi.) east of the village of Radium Hot Springs. This spring day we share the parking lot with one other vehicle. Vibrant Shades of the Paint Pots Kootenay National Park Paint Pot in early spring Although arguably not as jaw dropping as the Banff National Park’s Ink Pots, the Paint Pots of Kootenay National Park are a colour extravaganza worth seeing. With a wheelchair accessible trail, as well as a dirt trail leading to a bridge crossing the Vermillion River, the yellow, brown and red Paint Pots can be viewed by all ages and abilities. The acidic mineral spring system deposits ochre, a natural clay pigment once collected by the Ktunaxa people, for use in tipis, clothing, rock drawings and body paint. The Paint Pots are 85 km. (53 mi.) east of the village of Radium Hot Springs on Highway 93. Marble Canyon Marble Canyon is 87 km. (54 mi.) east of Radium Hot Springs I can not help myself. Running up stairs of the Marble Canyon trail to yet another stunning vista my enthusiastic shouting echoes against the deep canyon walls. The turquoise water rushing downward pays no attention to my excitement. “Why have we never been here before?” With no answer coming my way I take heart in the endless beauty that no photography will ever do justice to. Thankful to share the treasured find with only a few other spring tourists, we scamper about the protected fenced sides of the water-gouged rock. Although the area was scorched by forest fire in 2003, rock, water and the rebirth of forest create a spectacular setting. Visit Invermere, British Columbia Resting beneath the Rocky Mountains and on the shore of Lake Windermere, the community of Invermere is a 15 minute drive from Radium. Its trendy boutiques and specialty shops are still quiet in the shoulder season, making it an enjoyable addition to a list of things to do while visiting Radium BC. The non profit Village Arts consignment coop for local artists, has been promoting Canadian art for over 30 years. Canadian art at Village Arts Invermere Kicking Horse Coffee Invermere Arrowhead Brewery Invermere Walking into Arrowhead Brewing tap room is like stepping into the 1950’s. The vintage decor, fresh baked pretzels and a wide variety of craft beer make this one of our suggested stops in Invermere. If coffee is more your taste across the street you will find the home of Kicking Horse Coffee. Canada’s number one choice of fair trade organic coffee for more than a decade, you will smell the beans roasting the minute you step on the street. Want to plan your own trip to Radium Hot Springs? Pin these to your Pinterest travel board. What would be your pick of things to do in Radium Hot Springs? Thank you to Tourism Radium and partners for hosting our stay. All opinions are our own.

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Von Tarifa ist es ein Katzensprung nach Gibraltar. Lies hier nach, warum ich trotz typisch britischem Wetter einen tollen Tag hatte.

“You’re going where in Mexico?” Our excited reply of Manzanillo brings on blank stares from our neighbours. Most everyone has heard of Cancun, Mexico or Riviera Maya, Mexico, but less is known this port city on the Pacific Ocean. Even an internet search of things to do in Manzanillo Mexico typically lists beaches and day trips out of town. Not that beaches are a bad thing and Manzanillo beaches go on forever. What else is there to see in Manzanillo? This being our third trip to visit our friends living in Manzanillo, we decide to dig deeper. Known as the sailfish capital of the world, this sunny Mexico vacations destination must surely have hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So the quest for what to do in Manzanillo Mexico begins. We hound our friends, their friends and neighbours and basically anyone who will speak to us. Locals are always the best source of information. Below is a Manzanillo guide and maps we have created. We believe they will be helpful to anyone planning a trip whether you want to go deep sea fishing or find the best views of the city. Table of Contents Toggle Where is Manzanillo Mexico? 20 Things To Do In Manzanillo Mexico Manzanillo Restaurants Manzanillo Activities Manzanillo Attractions Manzanillo Shopping Where is Manzanillo Mexico? Located on the Pacific Ocean, Manzanillo Mexico lies in the state of Colima and is the busiest port in the country. It’s protected bay, with curving, wide sand beaches, handles all cargo headed for Mexico City. Manzanillo is 274 km (170 mi) south of Puerto Vallarta by car. Map of Manzanillo Colima Mexico The map of Manzanillo below, includes our suggestions for what to see and do in the city that retains its authentic Mexican feel. We hope you love it there as much as we do. Manzanillo map – Guide to Manzanillo Interested in other Mexico travel? Read these. Smart Souvenir Shopping Mexico 7 Day La Paz Mexico Travel Itinerary – A Complete Guide Ultimate Gray Whale Watching – Baja Friendly Giants 20 Things To Do In Manzanillo Mexico Click to find Manzanillo Hotels Manzanillo Restaurants This Manzanillo restaurant has one of the best views in the world Often in our travels we arrive to tourist crowds elbowing for the best view. Feeling as though we are a decade too late, we wonder what it would have been like in the early days. Casa Luna Manzanillo sunset view Discovering the new rooftop restaurant Casa Luna in Manzanillo, the feeling is far different. With its stunning 270 degree view from the Santiago peninsula, the Bay of Santiago and the Bay of Manzanillo are visible. The jaw-dropping sunset view in one direction gives way to the night skyline on the opposite side of the bay. It beats any restaurant view we have seen in the world. The owners are local, the staff are friendly and the pina coladas the best we have tasted in our travels. A nip of cinnamon is the secret we are told. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 6 pm onward, the vibe is casual with music of the 70’s and 80’s wafting off the rooftop. Casa Luna Manzanillo restaurant at night Our advice would be to visit Casa Luna soon. We predict it will be one of the most sought after Manzanillo restaurants, if not worldwide, very soon. One word of caution for those with mobility issues. The owners advise they do not yet have elevator access and the restaurant access requires several sets of stairs. Eat tropical tacos with a Manzanillo ocean view Tropical tacos at Pacifica Del Mar Manzanillo There is la lot to love about the Las Brisas restaurant Pacifica Del Mar. The outstanding ocean view, the choice of seating from indoors to partially covered to outdoors. However it is the tropical tacos on the menu that steal my heart. Rather than corn or flour tortillas, the chef uses thin slices of jicima as the base for his fresh seafood tacos. Manzanillo bars and restaurants at Playa La Boquita Ramadas or tents along this Manzanillo beach are often referred to as La Boquita At the far end of the Playa La Boquita you will find many ramadas, or tent covered beach bars and restaurants. On weekends and holidays the locals come to relax and enjoy family time. Beach vendors offer enough inflatable toys to bring up the shipwreck off shore. It is a friendly vibe and a good place to sit back and take in the relaxed Mexican pace. Our one tip would be sure to bring some pesos in coins as some of the bathrooms (baños) require a fee. Giant board games at this Manzanillo Mexico restaurant In a lesser known gem on the beach, Hostal Olas Atlas welcomes guests from around the world. Within the building, is the funky Hoa Bar, with a casual vibe. The decor is eclectic with murals, quotations and assorted board games. View from Hoa Bar Manzanillo Mexico Whether sitting at indoor tables overlooking the beach, or with your toes in the sand at tables on ground level, you can’t get a much closer Manzanillo ocean view. While playing over-sized Connect Four or Jenga, you can sip cold cervezas and cocktails or choose something tasty from the small menu. This is a dog friendly establishment and we had several quiet canine visitors. Free food with your drink at Manaanillo Bar Social 1952 Established in 1952 in El Centro, the owner of Bar Social established a policy that free food would be given to those who ordered drinks. His theory was that patrons would not get drunk too quickly, allowing for more consumption of liquor and beer. Inside Bar Social 1952 in El Centro Manzanillo Now refurbished, the Manzanillo restaurant tradition continues. Our cerveza arrives with spiced jicima and cucumber. As an added bonus the bartender gives a juggling performance with a bottle from the bar. Manzanillo Activities Hike to the abandoned houses of Manzanillo Casa Abandonada Gazing at the view of Manzanillo from the abandoned building, high above the Palma Real resort, one can see why a builder would love the location. Unfortunately, according to locals, the project never really got off the ground due to issues with water and power access. A dream never realized. A rainy hike to the view of Manzanillo from Casa Abandonada – Photo credit Marg McKenna Below it, lies another abandoned structure. Those who have lived in Manzanillo for decades, say this house was inhabited for some years and hosted extraordinary parties. To hike to Manzanillo’s abandoned houses, head to Playa La Boquita at the end of the Club Santiago area, cross a pedestrian bridge and follow the paved road. A steep, shorter route follows the road, which if you stay left becomes a dirt pathway taking you to the abandoned houses. Alternatively, for a longer but easier hike, follow the road along the lagoon to a stone sign that says El Risco. Turn left and go uphill. When you reach the sign Condominios Asturias turn left again. Follow that path to the abandoned buildings. Turn left at this sign and start going uphill Turn left just past this sign Be aware both both structures are in a state of disrepair. Use caution and watch your footing. We saw two bats when we were exploring inside the abandoned houses and kept our distance. Where to run in Manzanillo There is no shortage of beaches in Manzanillo for running or walking. For those wanting a pathway, cobblestone is a common surface and not ideal. In the Fovissste area of Manzanillo the Sports Stadium “May 5” ( Unidad Deportiva “5 De Mayo”) is open for public use. The outdoor track is in great condition and will save your ankles from a nasty turn on the cobblestone. Manzaniilo Sports Stadium Watch the ships come into the port of Manzanillo If you are a lover of ships, Manzanillo boasts the busiest port in Mexico. Handling cargo for Mexico city and area from the Pacific Ocean, the industrial ships waiting their turn to unload is a constant. One of the best vantage points to watch the action is from the Las Brissas beach ( Playa Las Brisas). Go deep sea fishing in Manzanillo On our first visit to Manzanillo years ago, we booked a fishing excursion and came back with less than a nibble. Since the area is known for its abundance of fish, they don’t call Manzanillo the sailfish capital of the world for nothing, we were disappointed. Friends who live in Manzanillo tell us success in deep sea fishing is all about the expertise of the captain and the crew. Although the weather did not cooperate for us on our recent visit, our friends booked with Brian of Renta De Lanchas Manzanillo Albatros the day after our departure. As you can see by the photo below, the captain and crew found where the fish were biting. Photo credit Marg McKenna On our next Manzanillo visit we will be following that recommendation! Snorkel at the San Luciano shipwreck Anchored on the Juluapan peninsula near Playa La Boquito in Santiago Bay, the San Luciano is Manzanillo’s sunken treasure. Since 1965 the 300 foot long vessel has sat in a relatively shallow waters at 6 meters (20 feet). To swim out to the wreck takes about 10-15 minutes from shore. Our safety recommendation is to book a reputable snorkeling tour or at the very least to wear a life jacket. Take a swing at Manzanillo golf Club Santiago Manzanillo golf course With three Manzanillo golf courses in and around the city, Las Hadas, El Corozon and Club Santiago, golf lovers will have no shortage of things to do in Manzanillo. Since we are not golf experts,we asked our friend David, who is an avid golfer living in Manzanillo, for his description of the courses. ‘Las Hadas is a very challenging course. El Corozon is very well manicured and has stunning views. Club Santiago is a 9 hole course with alternating tees for the second nine. It is casual and sneakily difficult.’ Try stand up paddle boarding in Manzanillo Stand up paddle boarding and paddle surfing originated in Hawaii, allowing surfers to get farther into the ocean to catch waves. In the last decade the sport has exponentially increased in popularity throughout the world. Paddle boarding allows for almost silent gliding over the waters surface, well unless one is flailing and falling in every 30 seconds as may or may not have been the case for me in first attempts at this sport. Mexico vacations on the beach now often include the sport. In Manzanillo you can take lessons or for the more experienced, rent stand up paddleboards, through Oasis Ocean Club. At Oasis you will also find a popular beach front Manzanillo restaurant. The beach bar has a fun vibe and a favourite of many winter visitors. Manzanillo Attractions Watch for a wild coati How many caotis do you see? These small mammals, known as ‘hog-nosed coons’ in English, are the size of large house cats. The omnivores with long, slightly upturned noses ( hence the pig reference), are native to Mexico, Central and South America as well as parts of the southwestern United States. At the end of our Manzanillo hike a large number of coatis came out of the jungle near Palma Real. Be aware coatis have sharp teeth and feeding wildlife is never a good idea. Stand with the Manzanillo Sailfish sculpture ( Monumento al Pez Vela) Can you spot Dave at the base of the sculpture? Proclaiming itself as the ‘Sailfish capital of the world,’ Manzanillo makes the point with a monstrous sculpture. Mexican artist Sebastian leaves no doubt to the message of importance of fishing to this coastal community. At 30 meters (90 feet) tall and 25 meters (82 feet) wide, the giant blue sailfish is referred to by some locals as ‘el camaron’ for its resemblance to a giant shrimp. The massive sculpture is hard to miss on the waterfront in central Manzillo ( El Centro). Take a photo of the Manzanillo sign The Manzanillo sign on the waterfront in Central Manzanillo ( El Centro) Near the sailfish statue in the plaza area near the cruise ship dock, look for the Manzanillo sign. Vibrant shades, and with its own mini sailfish, the sign makes for an iconic photographic souvenir. Watch a turtle release with Tortuga Manzanillo Turtle release Manzanillo Mexico Watching the tiny Olive Ridley turtles run for the sea, is a wonder of nature. How these little newly hatched creatures, gently dug from their sand nests, know which direction to go, leaves my head tilted like a puzzled puppy. Run by the University of Colima, the Tortugario Manzanillo not only saves turtles but educates the public on the dangers of plastic in the water to wildlife. A fenced area protects the nests of the sea turtles and the releases take place nearby. The address is 28218 Santa Domingo, on the beach behind the Walmart. Finding out when the turtle releases happen is the biggest challenge. This one was at 6 pm and we found out from someone living in Manzanillo. Our suggestion would be to send a message using the link above. Fill a fish with plastic – PETZ recycling One of the Manzanillo PETZ recycling fish swallowing up discarded plastic bottles In an effort to promote the recycling of PET plastic bottles, massive fish shaped containers are appearing on Mexican beaches. The PETZ containers (a combination of PET and the pez, Spanish for fish) are open mouthed waiting to swallow beach goers plastic. Keeping waste off the beach translates to protecting the marine environment. Several of the giant metal fish can be found along Manzanillo’s Miramar Beach (Playa Miramar). Look for the Colima dog sculptures in La Brisas Manzanillo These dogs are hard to miss on the sidewalks of Las Brisas Manzanillo The Mexican Hairless dog or Xoloitzcuintie ( try saying that 10 times) has a long history in the state of Colima, Mexico. Archaeological evidence has been found dating back 3500 hundred years to similar dogs in this area. When visiting the city of Colima you can’t go anywhere without seeing replicas of the famous dog. In Manzanillo watch for the vibrant pups in the Las Brisas area. Manzanillo Shopping Saturday morning shopping Tianguis Santiago From hardware to tupperware, bras to berries, the open-air market of Manzanillo bustles from 8 am onward each Saturday morning. In Mexico and Central America, the word tianguas refers to an outdoor market that springs forth just one day a week. Manzanillo Tianguis Saturday market Attracting both tourists and locals the market is a moving sea of people. We suggest that you brush up on Mexico shopping skills prior to stepping into the maze of tarp covered tables and trays. A map showing the location of the Santiago market can be found here. Each year the Manzanillo Artisans Market sets up under a large white tent near one of the big box stores. You will typically find the market around mid January to the first days of February. Local Manzanillo shopping in Centro Santiago Bring your patience and parking skills should you arrive to Centro Santiago on the weekend. Follow the locals to the line ups for fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables. This is a no nonsense area where folks have come to do their shopping and get on with enjoying their weekend. Do your best not to jam the narrow side walk gawking and snapping photos. I admit that may have been me asking forgiveness in broken Spanish. Manzanillo tuk tuk or “ubercito” Here was the only location we saw a Manzanillo Tuk-Tuk, affectionately called an ‘Ubercito’ by some. New to the city, and with rumors of them being rounded up for lack of registration or insurance, this may be a rare sighting. What would be your pick of things to do in Manzanillo Mexico? No time to read this now? Pin it to your Pinterest travel board for a future Manzanillo travel. Interested in reading more about Mexico travel? Check out our articles below. Mulege Mexico – Baja Sur’s Best Kept Secret Sayulita Mexico – A Not So Sleepy Surf Town El Pardito – A Fishing Village Frozen In Time

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