West Coast culture is all about diving into the natural beauty of your environment, kicking back and taking the time to enjoy the sweeter things in life. There’s no city in the world that embraces wellness like Vancouver, so set your out of office alert and leave your suit and tie at home, it’s time to let your troubles melt away in our Relax and Unwind weekend itinerary.
Day One
REST AND RETAIL THERAPY
For the height of luxury and relaxation, check into the Shangri-La. As Vancouver’s most famous luxury hotel, you’re guaranteed sweet dreams and a host of upscale amenities and luxury hospitality services. The hotel is connected to downtown Vancouver’s luxury retail row on Alberni Street, and if you’re interested in some serious retail therapy, you’re only steps away from Canada’s flagship Holt Renfrew store.
After an afternoon of browsing through designer labels, drop your shopping bags in the hotel room and enjoy upscale comfort at Carlino. Located in the Shangri-La, their menu features northern Italian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh West Coast ingredients.
Georgia Street, Downtown Vancouver (can see the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and Shangri-La Hotel)
Day Two
UNWIND AND WINE
If you’re craving a coffee or ready to sit down for a full brunch in the morning, make your way to popular downtown brunch spot Cafe Medina. Known for their eclectic bistro fare, connoisseur-savvy coffee and sweet waffles, there’s bound to be something to delight you. Back at the hotel, you’ll want to make time to visit CHI, The Spa to enjoy a world of quiet reflection in six luxuriously appointed spa suites. CHI, The Spa offers an holistic approach to massages and treatments, drawing on authentic natural healing methods found in the restorative riches of Asia’s traditional well-being practices.
To cap off the evening, hop in a cab to Railtown and sample local wine at Belgard Kitchen. Located in the historic Settlement Building, diners and wine tasters can enjoy elevated pub classics while wetting their whistle with wine tastings and flights from the 36 wines-on-tap at Vancouver Urban Winery.
Photo Credit: COURTESY OF CHI, THE SPA
Day Three
SEAWALL AND SUPPER
Pick up a coffee, head down to Coal Harbour and go for a relaxing stroll on Vancouver’s famous seawall. Surrounded by the refreshing sea air, you can gaze over the water to the mountains. For an even more serene view, the patio at Lift Bar and Grill is an ideal spot for a glass of wine and light lunch. If you’re more interested in forest bathing, take a detour into Stanley Park and spend time wandering through the acres of majestic trees and make a stop for a cocktail at the Teahouse.
End your stay with phenomenal food at Nightingale. Named Canada’s best farm-to-table restaurant, this lively downtown establishment serves creative house-made pastas, pizzas, seasonal veggie dishes and to-die-for desserts alongside local craft beers, wines and an inventive cocktail menu.
Photo Credit: COURTESY OF NIGHTINGALE RESTAURANT
INSIDER TIPS
- If you’re looking for a full day of fitness and spa treatments, the wellness facilities at the Spa by JW at JW Marriott Parq include eucalyptus infused steam rooms, a manicure and pedicure bar, and the Aqua Lounge, an outdoor pavilion with hydrotherapy tub and yoga space.
- Heading to Whistler after your Vancouver visit? Book a treatment at Scandinave, for a refreshing nordic spa experience.
