Located on the Burrard Peninsula and sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by Vancouver Island, Vancouver is a relatively compact, scenic metropolis with a mild climate boasting an extraordinary mix of environments. Visitors can be enjoying a drink harbour-side, exploring downtown or within half an hour be skiing or hiking in the wilderness of the North Shore Mountains.
The North Shore Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the city of Vancouver and are visible from most areas in the city. Whether winter or summer there is an infinite number of activities to enjoy. Hiking trails provide hours of walking and mountain biking during the summer months while skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing and tobogganing are all on offer during the winter. Cyprus Mountain was home to the 2010 Winter Olympics freestyle skiing events and is just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver.
Granville Island rose out of the sand bars in the creek around Vancouver city in the mid-nineteenth century, which was then just a small sawmill town. Today, Granville Island is a cultural hotspot for arts and foodies. Day and night festivals, theatre, street performers and music shows take over the island. Food is a big attraction, and visitors can choose from waterfront cafes, stylish restaurants or national snacks from the famous public market or abundant colourful stalls.