The winemaker 

Winemaking and viticulture was McLean’s second career pursuits after biochemistry. “I’ve never really considered winemaking as a career,” he admitted, but working in restaurants, he developed an interest in wine. After graduating from Brock University’s winemaking program, McLean moved back out west, where he spent eleven years making wine across the Okanagan, British Columbia (including LaStella and Tantalus Vineyards).

A typical winemaker’s journey takes them around the globe, working harvests in different wine regions. This wasn’t McLean’s journey, but Okanagan has a lot of foreign winemakers, which allowed him to work with winemakers from all over the world in a local climate. “The nice thing about having a bunch of different people that you’ve worked with is you can kind of pick and choose what you like from them and carry that with you,” he shared. “In hindsight, it was tough because you’re spending so long training, but now that I’m on the other side of it, I see all the tools and the skills that I picked up from those mentors as really invaluable. I’m really happy that I have gone that way, because it’s given me the confidence to move forward and believe in myself,” he added.

The winery

Black Bank Hill is a family business. The owner, Taylor Emerson, came back to Canada from London, UK, where he worked at the Weather Network, for a hard career pivot to winemaking in 2017. “Aloof” cousins on the mother’s side, Taylor and Jonathan, reconnected over winemaking while Jonathan was working in BC. Having recently lost his father, Jonathan felt a pull back to Ontario, strengthened by the opportunity to work with Taylor. 

“Taylor did a really good job finding a piece of property that can create really beautiful, distinct, and elegant wines,” Jonathan noted. The 20-acre property produces 12 varietals, five red (Pinot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot) and seven whites (Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne). For such a small piece of land, the range is very impressive.

2022 was the first year McLean grew the grapes and made the wine. The immense amount of rain made this a challenging harvest, resulting in a much lower yield. But despite the difficulties, those first few bottles performed really well at the National Wine Awards and in the Decanter Awards, with the Cabernet Franc winning platinum two years in a row. 

Tasting at Black Bank Hill winery in Niagara, Ontario, Canada. Photos by Kateryna Topol.

The not-so-secret sauce

Black Bank Hill winery is inherently natural. No enzymes or other additives are used in production. “People are often surprised that I’m able to create these colours and tannin structures without additives,” I was one of these people, he pointed out. There are a few things that he does differently in the cellar, but in McLean’s point of view, it is his winegrowing skills that make the wine:

The advantage of being the winemaker and wine grower is the ability to nurture the grapes throughout the year: “I’m making wine for four months before the grapes even show up,” he points out, “I think the big difference is the relationship I have with my vineyard”. This care and attention enable Jonathan to predict the yield outcomes come harvest, “my yields are always bang on, and that’s a sense of pride for me, at the end of the season, I can say, Taylor, you told me to pick 44 tons, and I picked 44 tons plus 200 kilograms”.

The grapes are hand-harvested and put through a basket press instead of a modern membrane press. This very strategic decision is one of many that look to treat the grape with respect and ensure year-to-year release consistency. “We’re doing everything we can to make sure that the grape is the hero of the show,” he shared.

Left: barrel room at Black Bank Hill, Niagara. Photo by Kateryna Topol. Right: Black Bank Hill Cabernet Franc harvest. Photo by Jonathan McLean.

The philosophy 

McLean is currently working on his Master’s in Environmental Sustainability. When asked why he chose sustainability over winemaking, a question he’s been asked more than once, he replies: “For me, what was more important is creating wines more sustainably, particularly in how it relates to my Indigenous heritage.”

“We didn’t know much about our father’s side of the family,” he admitted. But after his father’s passing, McLean’s sister dug into their heritage, learning that they come from the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. “I’m also part of the Bear Clan. My heritage goes back seven generations, all the way to the Mohawk Valley and what is now called New York state,” he shares. “My family has been part of this region for time immemorial, and a part of this is honouring them and honouring my ancestors, particularly my great-grandmother, who had her Indigenous status removed by the Canadian government.”

In the vineyard, he “decided to make a sustainability program based on traditional Indigenous knowledge, and that still is the goal,” but first, he needs to properly understand the traditional knowledge systems and how all of these relations (nature, community, history) can inform his approach to viticulture. “Reconnecting is a really challenging thing, because you feel the feelings,” he admits, “and you can choose to feel the feelings, and if you do, you have good days, and you have bad days,” admiring the strength of Indigenous people and being saddened by their continuous mistreatment.

Black Bank Hill winery production spaces. Photos by Kateryna Topol.

The winemaking future 

“My thesis is all about approaching wine in a different way, changing the colonial paradigms of sustainability and just kind of breaking down colonial structures in this industry,” McLean stated. “We have a lot of places in our industry where power is kind of collected and protected for certain people, and I’d love to see an industry that’s more inclusive. An industry that invites new voices and new faces.” McLean’s theory is that inviting new voices into the industry will inspire innovation that the industry so affected by climate change desperately needs. 

Winemaker’s favourite bottles

Visit blackbankhill.com to learn about the wine club and upcoming events.

The post Growing Niagara wine with purpose with Jonathan McLean of Black Bank Hill appeared first on Paths to Travel.

The town is located on the shared, traditional territories of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and Lil̓wat7úl (Lil’wat) Nation, incorporating various authentic Indigenous experiences throughout. Most people come to Whistler to experience nature, but its many museums, art galleries, and cultural experiences will be a great addition to the trip.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here.
Parts of this trip were hosted by Explore Burnaby and Fairmont Chateau Whistler, who did not review or approve this story.

Whistler origins 

Whistler Village opened as a ski area in December 1980, and at the time, it was the largest ski complex in North America. Six years later, the Vancouver World’s Fair caused an influx of tourism to the Coast Mountains, putting Whistler Village on the global map. Soon after, American landscape artist Eldon Beck was recruited to design the village expansion. Beck decided to defy the classic North American grid built and instead wanted to build a “Village in the forest,” emphasising natural sightlines and sunlight paths across the space. The rest, as they say, is history.

What to do & See in Whistler

There are plenty of things to do in Whistler year-round, even for those who don’t come here for the winter sports. From culture and adventure to scenic gondola rides, your Whistler vacation can easily take on the leisurely pace of your choice. Visitors also have access to a collection of free self-guided tours with the Go Whistler app. There are 11 tours total, ranging from cultural and indigenous walks to craft beer and sweet treat tours. 

Explore Whistler Village Centre & Village North

Whistler Village is divided into three parts: Upper Village (the ski-in area), Village Centre, and Village North, the newest corner of town. The curvy pathways of the village cut through forested areas, along waterways and through a scenic wooden bridge. Nature exists seamlessly between the modern alpine ski chalet-style buildings lining the streets. 

Village Centre is packed with bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and over 200 retail shops, selling everything from ski essentials to large-scale souvenirs of Canada. Between the shops are art galleries where local artists display and sell paintings, photography, hand-woven baskets, First Nations designs, pottery and much more. Skis and snowboards are propped up in front of shops and restaurants almost year-round, adding a cheerful touch of colour to the scene. Bright yellow Muskoka chairs and loungers are thoughtfully placed around the village, overlooking ponds, rivers, and public squares. 

Village North is home to the Whistler Olympic Plaza, which prominently features the Olympic sign put in place during the 2010 Winter Olympics. A row of covered picnic pods offers more intimate spaces for an afternoon lunch surrounded by a bright patch of green grass behind the Olympic rings. 

Whistler Village, British Columbia. Images by Kateryna Topol.

Art & Culture 

Whistler Village houses quite a few notable museums and art galleries, in addition to the Whistler Museum. Audain Art Museum, which opened in 2016, has one of the world’s finest collections of First Nations masks, an impressive library of Emily Carr paintings, and works by Canada’s most internationally regarded contemporary artists. 

The building is a work of art in itself. Built to withstand the impact from the Fitzsimmons Creek floodplain and the heavy Whistler snowfalls, the structure seemingly floats above ground. Blending into the surrounding evergreen forest vegetation, the museum sits a full storey above ground and has a steeply sloped roof, making it, from some angles, look like a diamond. The building is connected to the main road by a bridge, which leads to an envelope-shaped entry with the forest shadows cutting through the slatted walls. 

Audain Art Museum 
4350 Blackcomb Wy, Whistler, BC V8E 1N3 | Map link
Tickets: Adults $22, seniors $19, young adults (19-15) $15, youth under 18 are free. 

Above and below: Audain Art Museum, Whistler, BC. Image by Kateryna Topol.

Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Líḻwat7ul Cultural Centre (Squamish Lil’wat) is a first-of-its-kind in Canada world-class cultural centre operated by the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. The museum embodies the spirit of partnership between the two First Nations through exhibitions and experiences that celebrate both cultures.

The museum site consists of multiple interior and exterior areas, including the Great Hall and galleries, a traditional Tl’aktaxen Lam (longhouse), and the İstken (pit house). An hourly guided tour is included in the cost of admission and will bring you into the local culture and history with a knowledgeable local. Ground floor Thunderbird Café serves an Indigenous-inspired menu worthy of a visit on its own.  

Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Líḻwat7ul Cultural Centre
4584 Blackcomb Wy, Whistler, BC V8E 0Y3 | Map link
Tickets: Adult $25, teens (618) $12, children under 5 free. 

Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Líḻwat7ul Cultural Centre. Images by Kateryna Topol.

Maury Young Arts Centre, located closer to Village North, is a community art gallery, theatre, and youth centre. Visitors can pick up art and souvenirs on the ground floor, view exhibitions on the second, or explore classes and entertainment if the schedule allows. The hub is managed by Arts Whistler. 

Take note of the Timeless Circle Sculpture in front of the Maury Young Arts Centre. The sculpture was created by a renowned Coast Salish artist, Susan Point, who created 86 different faces that reflect the diversity of the people who attended the 2010 Olympic Games.

Maury Young Arts Centre
4335 Blackcomb Wy, Whistler, BC V8E 0X4 | Map link
Tickets: Free entry 

Timeless Circle Sculpture, Whistler, BC, Canada. Images by Kateryna Topol.

Blackcomb Mountain Gondola

One of the main attractions in Whistler is Blackcomb Mountain and its newest Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The gondola opened in 2018 and combines Peak 2 Peak and Whistler Village gondolas in a continuous 13.5 km lift system. The gondola goes from the Upper Village to the top of the mountain, where even in May the peaks will be covered with snow. 

Summer Alpine Experience access includes a labyrinth of snow walls that tower above Pika’s Traverse on Whistler Mountain. This unique experience is available for a very limited time, before the seasonal snow melts for the summer. The visitor’s centre at the top has a spacious cafeteria with an outdoor terrace and a seasonal restaurant, Christine’s. 

Blackcomb Mountain Gondola
4553 Blackcomb Wy, Whistler, BC V8E 0Y1 | Map link
Tickets: Spring to fall day passes start at $85 per adult. Seasonal passes are available. 

May on Blackcomb Mountain Gondola. Images by Kateryna Topol.

Hiking & Adventure

Whistler summer activities include hiking, ziplining, mountain biking, wildlife experiences, and water sports.

Hiking in Whistler 

The natural beauty of the mountains is best experienced through their many trails. Alpine hiking on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains is accessible by gondola. The trails vary from family-friendly to advanced hikes to lakes, glaciers and alpine meadows. Blackcomb Mountain Ascent Trails, for example, take you all the way up to the summit for epic views and giant trees. Mid-summer’s must-do is the wildflower trail hike, which lasts only two to three weeks. 

Many hiking trails don’t require a gondola ticket, though some BC Parks, including Garibaldi Provincial Park and Joffre Lakes Park, require Day-Use passes, which can be purchased on bcparks.ca. Some of the best hikes in Whistler include the Lost Lake and the Rainbow Falls Loop.

Soft adventure in Whistler

There are five lakes around Whistler offering breathtaking views and a range of activities from canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards to sailing. The lake can be reached with pubic transit from Whistler Village, making this adventure car-free if necessary. Find canoe tours and rentals info on whistler.com. For a bird’s-eye view of Whistler, hop aboard a seaplane for a Garibaldi Lake and Black Tusk 30-minute plane ride.

Wildlife watching is another popular activity in the region. The Alpine trail map is marked with wildlife viewing spots where you can spot deer, squirrels, bears, marmots, birds, and other creatures. Black bear viewing tours are commonly done with a 4×4 safari-style vehicle, comfortably roaming through the mountain terrain. Bear tours operate from May to October.

Afternoon/Evening bear viewing tour

Enjoy one of the premier black bear viewing spots in Whistler. Join a local professional nature guide and photographers on your wilderness luxury Land Rover black bear excursion. 2.5 hours. 

Book

Bear tour with exclusive Olympic Park access

Discover Whistler’s wild side on a guided black bear tour in Olympic Park. Travel in an open 4×4 built for safari-style viewing and observe wild black bears safely with your expert local guide.

Book

Adventure experiences in Whistler 

In the summer, the mountains transform into a custom-built bike park, perfect for progressive mountain bike rides. Bike park passes are available as one-time visits or seasonal passes. Fans of more extreme activities can head out on the Green River for a whitewater rafting adventure, go rock climbing, or reach the sky with Whistler Via Ferrata. Another fun activity is bungee jumping above the glacial-fed Cheakamus River or ziplining above the forest. 

Where to eat & Drink in Whistler

As expected, there are quite a few restaurants, cafes, and bars across Whistler Village, suitable for different moods and appetites. Provisions is a local favourite for breakfast, most notably for the poached egg breakfast sandwich. For lunch, grab a slice of pizza at Fat Tony’s Pizza or head over to the Thunderbird Café for a delicious chowder and a bannock sandwich.

Find a vibrant atmosphere, good cocktails, and shareable bites at Bar Oso, serving contemporary Spanish cuisine, or Balam, focused on Latin American bites. Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a great option for a seafood set course, or an Après happy hour, 3 PM to 4:45 PM.

Some of the best dining experiences in Whistler are naturally offered by upscale hotels, like Fairmont Chateau Whistler. The Wildflower dining room faces Blackcomb Mountain, perfectly lighting the space at golden hour through floor-to-ceiling windows. The restaurant serves seasonal dishes prepared with hyper-local ingredients.

The menu has a balanced representation of land and sea, and being so close to the source, fresh seafood (Ocean Wise certified) comes highly recommended. From West Coast Oysters served with mint mignonette to Tofino Albacore Crudo and locally caught fish, choosing seafood is easy. Short rib, Fraser Valley duck, chicken and Alberta AAA steaks perfectly balance out the seafood on the menu. 

The Wildflower restaurant at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. West Coast Oysters served over ice with mint mignonette, Hokkaido Scallops perfectly cooked with pork belly and a crispy chicharron, and Dungeness Crab Tagliatelle, decadently flavoured with saffron and chilli butter. Images by Kateryna Topol.

For unique dining experiences, Audain Art Museum hosts seasonal dining events like Art of Wine and Art of the Cocktail. Both Araxi Restaurant and Wild Blue host long table dinners in the summer, and Blackcomb Mountain offers a Mountain Top Summer Feast, among other dining experiences. 

Wellness in Whistler 

There are quite a few wellness facilities in Whistler. The Spa at Whistler, for example, is a spacious public facility with a liquor-licensed area. Whistler Day Spa, The Spa At Nita Lake Lodge, and Vida Spa at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler all come highly recommended.  

Scandinave Spa Whistler, however, is the main spa destination in Whistler. Set among the tall alpine trees, a wooden pathway leads you to the spa from the open parking lot, hash signs preparing you for what’s to come. This is a 25,000-square-foot outdoor sanctuary with four pools, two saunas, two eucalyptus steam rooms, and five distinct relaxation areas. A village in itself, Scandinave Spa Whistler, is ideal for a relaxing afternoon spent coming in and out of sleep between healing rituals. 

Scandinave Spa Whistler
8010 Mons Rd, Whistler, BC V8E 1K7 | Map link
Rates: Starting at $118 per person, robes and towels included 

Scandinave Spa Whistler, images courtesy of the spa.

Where to stay in Whistler

Fairmont Chateau Whistler, situated at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain, is a two-Michelin-key property. It is a ski-in ski-out castle with a spa, fitness centre, multiple pools, five restaurants, and three bars. Rooms range from standard king and queens to luxury suites with balconies and sitting rooms.

Four Seasons Resort Whistler is another two-Michelin-key property in Whistler. The hotel is located a short walk from the main village and offers complimentary car service to all guests. Amenities include a spa, wellness centre, outdoor pool, three restaurants, a cafe, and a pool bar. Rooms range from mountain-view balcony king rooms to spacious resort rooms and speciality suites, some of which have a private jacuzzi.

Nita Lake Lodge is a great boutique hotel alternative to the large resorts with one Michelin key. The lodge, located near the Whistler Golf Club, has a spa, fitness centre, kayak rentals, a garden, two restaurants, and a cafe. Rooms range from balcony one bedrooms to six-person suites with a living room. 

Fairmont Chateau Whistler
4599 Chateau Blvd, Whistler, BC V8E 0Z5
Rooms starting at $450 CAD for a king
Book directly on fairmont.com or compare with your favourite booking site: Expedia | Booking.com | Hotels.com | TripAdvisor

Four Seasons Resort Whistler
4591 Blackcomb Wy, Whistler, BC V8E 0Y4
Rooms starting at $463 CAD for two queens
Book directly on fourseasons.com or compare with your favourite booking site: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor

Nita Lake Lodge
2131 Lake Placid Rd, Whistler, BC V8E 0B2
Rooms starting at $239 CAD for a king
Book directly on nitalakelodge.com or compare with your favourite booking site: Expedia | Booking.com | TripAdvisor

Fairmont Chateau Whistler and Four Seasons Resort Whistler balcony, images by Kateryna Topol.

More hotels & Accomodations in Whistler

Whistler Olympic Plaza. Image by Kateryna Topol.

Getting to & Around Whistler

Whistler is located around two hours from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). You can rent a car at the airport or opt for one of the available shuttles. There are multiple options for the Whistler shuttle from the Vancouver airport, departing at different times of day. A few to consider are:

• Whistler Shuttle, with multiple pick-up and drop-off locations
• Epic Rides with non-stop service from Vancouver to Whistler 
• Bus transfer with Skylinx
• Canadian Craft Charters, which offers private Whistler transfer with an option to add scenic stops 
• Vanlimo Limousine Service, private transfer 
• Private transfer with sightseeing stops in Vancouver and Whistler 

Whistler is very walkable, and if you don’t intend to do any day trips, you can easily navigate without a car. Ridesharing is not available in Whistler, but there is a small taxi company, Whistler Taxis. The company has an app that allows you to track the driver online. You can always call +1 (604) 932-3333 to request a ride; the hold time will be spent listening to music, like 50 Cent’s “In da Club”. 

The post Whistler beyond aprés: three-day summer Whistler Village itinerary appeared first on Paths to Travel.

When picturing British Columbia’s culinary scene, most imagine Vancouver, or perhaps Richmond, for its many Chinese restaurants, but Burnaby is a detour you’ll want to take if food is something you travel for. Burnaby’s culinary scene is rooted in its people and their rich cultural diversity. Each place, and often each plate within it, tells a story through flavours developed by generations. 

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here.
This trip was partially hosted by Explore Burnaby who did not review or approve this story.
All images by Kateryna Topol.

Burnaby, BC, is a city in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia (BC), east of Vancouver and only 20 minutes away by SkyTrain. It is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada, with 120 languages spoken at home. So naturally, the culinary scene is a reflection of this diversity. From family restaurants to fine dining, Burnaby has it all, so bring your appetite, whether you visit the city for a day or stay here for a week exploring its ancient forests, mountainous trails, and urban corridors.

Metrotown is the city’s centre, but one of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods is Burnaby Heights. This stretch of Hastings Street houses nearly 80 immigrant-run family food and beverage businesses, many of which have been here for generations. You can spend an entire day exploring the dining options in this neighbourhood or chip away at them one at a time. The Amazing Brentwood, on the other hand, is a new public plaza and shopping centre. Between retail stores are many larger restaurants and unique dining experiences, equally representative of the city’s diversity. 

House-made sausages and pickled preserves from Cioffi’s Meat Market & Deli.

Cioffi’s Meat Market & Deli

This is the “Heights,” a classic blade sign protruding from the building declares. A woman in a blue dress, just under, is frozen mid-swing, her name is Helen. Helen owned a famous children’s clothing shop in the Heights since 1956, and promised her space to the Cioffi family once she retired. Today, Cioffis own three side-by-side storefronts on Hastings Street, including Helen’s original shop. The business was started by Antonio Cioffi in 1989 and is currently owned by his sons, Rino and Sergio. In conversation, Rino admitted he only got into this business to help his father, “the food business is for life, I wouldn’t wish it on my children,” he added. And yet the passion and dedication are steeped into every corner of this business. 

Cioffi’s Meat Market & Deli supplies both, local residents and Vancouver’s top kitchens with speciality produce, but you can also come in here for a meal or a sandwich, which many locals do on the daily. Porchetta and short rib sandwiches are the top sellers. And then there are the decadent cheese tortellini, imported from Italy (best served in cream sauce with bacon bits), cold tiramisus handmade by Italian Nona’s, house-made sausages, and imported Italian coldcuts perfect for a girls’ dinner or family gathering alike.

Google maps | Instagram | cioffisgroup.com

Cheese Tortellini, imported from Italy, charcuterie board sample with imported cold cuts and aged cheeses from Cioffi’s Meat Market & Deli, Burnaby, British Columbia.

Peaked Pies

The company is rooted in love for food: Kerri Jones missed proper Australian pies from home, so her husband, Alex Relf, made her some pies. The company has four locations across BC, and the Burnaby outpost is a popular stop for lunch and takeaways among the neighbours. Kerri and Alex’s unique take on the classic Australian pie is a top-up tower of mashed potatoes, mushy peas, and savoury gravy. One pie is a whole meal.

The flaky, delicious pastry serves as a vessel for juicy meat fillings like AA Alberta beef, bacon and cheese, butter chicken, kangaroo, and locally sourced vegetables. Pies (and sausage rolls) can be bundled into a lunch or dinner combo with a cold pint of beer, salad, or a non-alcoholic beverage of your choice. 

Google maps | Instagram | peakedpies.com

Peaked Pies with mashed potatoes and mushy peas. Hannah, Peaked Pies Burnaby supervisor.

Di Chai Laotian Restaurant

This family-owned and operated restaurant, focused on seasonal Laotian food, is a unique stop even for Burnaby. This is “a house full of chefs,” co-owner Lena Truong joked, sharing their family backstory, while her brother, Chef Calvin Truong, worked in the back on preparing the meal. The Truong family immigrated to Canada from a war-torn country and built a small culinary empire. Di Chai is their latest opening, drawing on their mom’s recipes with a few modern Lao plates by Chef Calvin.

Lao food is meant to be shared at the round table, sticky rice cups, jaew (traditional dipping sauce), and hot sauce are at the centre. Every dish is refreshingly green and decadent. The best way to experience Lao food is a sharing plate. There are four on the menu, but Saap Saap will encompass most of the essential dishes in one. Perfectly seasoned beef jerky, decadent lemongrass chicken, juicy grilled pork, and lao sausages are just a few of the items on this show-stopping plate. For a lighter meal, Gang Som hot and sour soup has a light, but flavourful broth and a wealth of chicken and vegetables, the kind of bowl that can easily become a weekly favourite. 

Google maps | Instagram | Reservations

Saap Saap sharing plate; cover image is Nam Khao (crispy rice wrap), Di Chai Laotian Restaurant, Burnaby.

La Taquería Restaurante Mexicano

La Taquería have three concepts across Vancouver, and this Brentwood location is a classic Mexican restaurant. A spacious dining room spills out onto the terrace with views of the lively Amazing Brentwood. La Taquería is a cool spot you can come into for a snack, for a big date night, or a casual family celebration.

The menu is created by Chef Maria Ponce. Navojoa Mexican-native Chef Maria trained in award-winning kitchens across North and Latin America before settling in Vancouver. Staying close to the concept name La Taquería offers authentic Mexican food like the traditional Esquites served with queso fresco (sautéed corn), silky tuna tostada with citrus vinaigrette, and mole-forward main dishes like pork belly or tetela (triangular corn dough pocket stuffed with cheese). Guests have an option to add an agave flight pairing to their meal, which can include mezcal, tequila, and raicilla. 

Google maps | Instagram | lataqueria.com

Esquites, margaritas, and tuna tostada at La Taquería Restaurante Mexicano, Burnaby, BC.

Atlas Steak + Fish

A modern take on a traditional steakhouse, Atlas Steak + Fish is the kind of place you go to celebrate. The decor is elegant and atmospheric, heavy curtains and dim lighting setting an intimate mood. Located inside the Delta Hotels Burnaby Conference Centre, sharing the floor with Grand Villa Casino, the restaurant feels like a world of its own.

Many of the menu items are prepared tableside with a flair, adding a layer of entertainment to the meal. Premium cuts like tomahawk steak and beef carpaccio are accompanied by butter-poached asparagus with Béarnaise sauce and whipped brie mashed potatoes. Top-catch seafood is always on the menu, and the Atlas signature is the crowd-stopping seafood tower, which lands on the table in a cloud of white fog. To close out the meal, baked Alaska is set a flame tableside, adding crisp toasted streaks to the otherwise pillowy, cold dessert. 

Google maps | Instagram | atlassteakandfish.com

Chef Olya Karpova, a Marriott Masters of the Craft award winner, restaurant interior, and Baked Alaska prepared tableside at Atlas Steak + Fish.

Seafood Tower and Beef Carpaccio at Atlas Steak + Fish Restaurant, Burnaby, BC.

Getting to Burnaby

From the airport

If you are travelling from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) SkyTrain is always an option and will take you through Vancouver to Metrotown in about an hour. The best way to get to Burnaby from YVR is by car. You can rent a car at the airport or through Turo (a peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace). You can also order a taxi or an Uber, or prebook a private transport with companies like Star Chauffeured Services. Some hotels offer a free shuttle service from the airport.

From Vancouver

If you are staying in Vancouver, you can take the SkyTrain, Millennium or Expo Lines. The Expo line from the Waterfront takes 20 minutes to Metrotown, for example, which makes it very accessible for lunch or dinner. Taxis and rideshares are always an option as well. 

Find a hotel in Burnaby 

Hilton Vancouver Metrotown, 1 King 2 Room Executive Suite and just some of the breakfast options.

The post Best Restaurants in Burnaby BC: A local dining guide appeared first on Paths to Travel.

All images courtesy of the distillery.

The origins of Macaloney’s Island Distillery: Scottish inspiration meets Canadian terroir

Years ago, Graeme Macaloney was quietly laying the seeds of his future success with a humble summer job bottling the “water of life”, which fueled his lifelong fascination with whisky. Years later, his passion, combined with credibility and expertise, helped those seeds bloom into a legitimate business. Joining the team were veteran Scottish master distiller Mike Nicolson and maturation expert Dr. Jim Swan, who together fused centuries-old Scottish traditions with Canada’s Pacific Coast ingredients and climate, earning a devoted following among connoisseurs and curious travellers alike.

Thanks to a maritime climate that mirrors Scotland’s whisky-making environments, Victoria proved to be an ideal home base. The region’s clean island water, fresh, coastal air, and temperate oceanic climate all contribute to the spirits’ distinct flavour and character. Using Canadian barley and copper pot stills from Scotland’s renowned Forsyth’s distillery, they got to work building a facility that would produce legitimately authentic single malt whisky with a uniquely Canadian identity. 

Award-Winning Canadian single malt whisky

In the grand scheme of the whisky world, Macaloney’s is a young pup. But nobody can deny that the distillery’s national and international success has been swift and impressive, proving that Scottish technique and Canadian ingredients were paying off. 

Among Macaloney’s standouts internationally are the double gold-winning An Aba, a lighted peated sherried whisky, An Loy, a double-distilled, single malt whisky, and triple-distilled Kildara, which won World’s Best Pot Still Whisky in 2023. Macaloney’s Sherry Bomb Whisky, Cath-Nah-Aven, won gold in 2023’s edition of the World Whiskies Awards. Nationally, its St Mallie Portugues Red Wine Single Cask, Peat Project Red Wine Cask Whisky, and Peat Project Bourbon Cask Whisky took home Best Canadian Single Cask and Single Malt in 2020, 2022, and 2025, respectively. Its Killeigh Triple Distilled Whisky won Best Canadian Pot Still in 2022, while its Kirkinriola Portuguese Red Wine Single Cask won the same award in 2024. Its Peated Kildara, Triple Distilled Lightly Peated Whisky took home top prize in the same category in 2025. 

Finally, Macaloney’s Peat Project Moscatel Cask Whisky was awarded 2025’s Canadian Whisky of the Year. Made with local BC barley, lightly smoked with peat, and aged in a Portuguese Moscatel cask, it offers notes of coastal pine, juicy pineapple, and chocolate-orange. On a wider scale, this win was integral as it competed against nearly 200 others in blind tastings, proving that Canadian single malts could rival even the most established and respected names in the world. 

Why Macaloney’s whisky has captured global attention

Let’s not overlook the fact that whisky tourism has exploded, and discerning visitors are eager to include a spirit tour on their itinerary. Fundamentally, the success of Macaloney’s can be traced to a deliberate combination of authenticity, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of place. Vancouver Island’s natural environment, when combined with Canadian barley, fresh water, and a cool ocean breeze, results in a series of character-rich spirits. Furthermore, its reliance on copper potstill distillation, long fermentation periods and careful cask selection is reminiscent of Scotland’s storied whisky houses. 

The future of Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Canadian whisky

Along with an expansive three-season patio in the works, Macaloney’s also plans to add more tours. tasting programs and collaborative events in the coming years to accommodate a growing demand.  Along with tasting as many spirits as you like, Macaloney’s signature experiences will include a Grain-to-Glass tour, taking guests behind the scenes – from the grist mill and warehouse, to the pot stills and the maturation room – with the option to even smoke peat upon request. 

For decades, the conversation about single malt whisky centred mainly on Scotland. Macaloney’s is proof that new regions, including Vancouver Island, can create exceptional whisky. And while Macaloney’s has racked up a list of impressive awards, it’s important to keep in mind that thousands of whisky barrels are still maturing, each representing future, potentially award-winning releases, further elevating the brand’s reputation. Currently, Macaloney’s is the 3rd most-awarded distillery in the world and the most-awarded craft distillery in Canada. Conclusion: Graeme and his team are just getting started! 

Sidebar – don’t skip the beer!

Named after a poem by Robbie Burns, Twa Dogs Brewery operates inside Macaloney’s, pouring a rotating lineup of craft brews brewed on site using high-quality ingredients. Behind-the-scenes tours offer guests a chance to sample various strains of malted and unmalted barley while enjoying a few beer and whisky tastings along the way. Macaloney’s brewery arm adds another dimension to the visitor experience, all in a relaxed, speakeasy-style setting that feels upscale yet welcoming, without the pretentious atmosphere or hefty price tag. Be it a pint or a dram, Macaloney’s delivers a memorable experience, with a touch of West Coast swagger. 

The post The rise of Vancouver Island whisky: The story of Macaloney’s Distillery appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Cover image: Salt Spring Island. Image by Andrea Johnson, courtesy of Destination BC.
This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 

Salt Spring Island: The artistic heart of the Gulf Islands

Salt Spring is famous for its vibrant arts scene, friendly locals and stunning natural beauty. This article is informed by multiple trips to this island, including a week-long stay, during which we chatted with artists, sampled local food and hiked quite a few trails.

Top things to do on Salt Spring Island

1. Visit the Saturday Market

The Saturday Market in Ganges is not to be missed. Over 140 local vendors set up shop from April to October. Find everything from handmade soaps to fresh goat cheese. Pair it with some crackers and a bottle of wine for an ideal picnic. The vibe of the market is lively, and chatting with the artisans was a highlight.

2. Explore local art galleries and studios

You can spend hours wandering through galleries and open studios. The Salt Spring Studio Tour is a must. Pick up a map and meet artists in their creative spaces. Activities like glassblowing demos and pottery workshops are available in this space.

3. Hiking, kayaking and beaches

Hike Mount Maxwell for epic views, bike along the bike routes, kayak along the coast, and relax at Beddis Beach. Rentals are easy to find in Ganges, and the trails are well-marked.

4. Camping

Some of the best camping in BC can be found on this island. The only thing to be aware of is that the camping spots get reserved almost immediately on their release date, leaving only a few walk-in sites, so plan accordingly.

Local’s tip: If you are with a larger group, you cannot go wrong with a group campsite. Most of these have an open view of the water, where you can see BC Ferries go past every few hours.

Where to eat and stay

Cafés and restaurants

Become a  regular at Barb’s Bakery for breakfast and indulge in made-from-scratch fare at Auntie Pesto’s. Don’t miss the Salt Spring Island Cheese Company to stock up for a picnic lunch.

Recommended accommodations

Stay in a cosy lakeside cabin or choose one of the many great B&Bs and boutique hotels around Ganges. Harbour House Hotel is a great option with full amenities, while The Cottage and Castle offer a unique local stay. Book early in summer as Salt Spring fills up fast. Camping, of course, is always an option for the more adventurous.

Pender Island: A nature lover’s paradise

Spend a few weeks on Pender Island, it’s a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. This destination offers plenty of hiking, paddling, and dining options around the island.

Must-see attractions on Pender Island

1. Hiking Mount Norman

One of the most scenic hikes is up Mount Norman. The trail isn’t too long, about 1.5 km each way, but it’s a steady climb. It takes around 45 minutes to reach the top, and the panoramic views over the Southern Gulf Islands are absolutely worth the climb. Make sure to pack water to stay hydrated and a camera for those epic shots.

2. Kayaking and paddleboarding

Rent kayaks from a local outfitter at Port Browning Marina. Paddling along the calm coastline, you might spot seals, deer, bald eagles, and other local wildlife. The water is usually gentle, especially in the mornings, making it perfect for beginners. Paddleboarding is also super popular here because of the calm waters and the stunning views.

3. Exploring beaches and parks

Spend time in  Mortimer Spit and Medicine Beach. Both are great for picnics, beachcombing, and just soaking up the sun. The island parks, like Beaumont Marine Park, are perfect for a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.

Dining and lodging options

Local eateries

There are many family-owned spots to try, including the local favourite,  Slow Coast Coffee, for breakfast. The vibe is friendly, and the coffee is strong. For dinner, check out the fresh seafood at The Hub.

Unique stays

Book a cosy cabin or one of the many charming B&Bs and glamping options, like Airstreams with hot tubs in the woods. Staying somewhere unique really adds to the island experience. Many places offer stunning views and easy access to trails and beaches.

Galiano Island: Adventure and relaxation combined

Galiano Island can easily become your favourite Gulf Islands destination for its perfect blend of outdoor adventure and laid-back charm.

Highlights of Galiano Island

1. Biking and hiking trails

Explore Galiano’s network of trails. Bodega Ridge Trail is a highlight, with sweeping views over Trincomali Channel. The trails are well-marked and range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Alternatively, you can rent a bike and cruise along the quiet roads, traffic is light, so it’s super relaxing.

2. Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park

Spend a few afternoons at Montague Harbour. The white shell beaches are perfect for picnics, and the sunsets are unreal. Kayak rentals are available, offering an opportunity to get closer to seals and otters while paddling.

3. Art and culture spots

Galiano has a surprising arts scene. Visit the Galiano Island Gallery and several roadside studios to see the full range. The local artists are friendly and happy to chat about their work.

Where to eat and sleep

Top restaurants

Make sure to visit  Pilgrimme to experience their farm-to-table dishes. For casual eats, the Hummingbird Pub is recommended for their fish and chips.

Cozy accommodations

Choose a waterfront cabin or one of the many cute B&Bs and eco-lodges. Book early in summer, places fill up fast.

Notes on getting around the Gulf Islands 

Ferries are the main way to get around the Gulf Islands. BC Ferries runs regular routes from Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Make sure to book ahead, especially in the summer. If you haven’t reserved, then always arrive early, as lines can get long. Bring snacks, check schedules, and pack layers because the weather changes fast out on the water.

Guest author: Isheeta and Shrey from the Travelicious Couple

traveliciouscouple.com | @travelicious_couple 

Remote workers and slow travellers since 2018, Isheeta and Shrey have explored all 7 continents while calling British Columbia home. Join them for slow travel inspiration, remote work tips, and deep-dive guides, especially across Canada.

Left: Galiano Island, image by Ben Giesbrecht, courtesy of Destination BC. Right: Gulf Islands ferry, image by @localwanderer.

The post Best Gulf Islands to visit in British Columbia appeared first on Paths to Travel.

The property is very elegantly designed, highlighting the historical details while mixing in modern design twists throughout. For this visit, I had an opportunity to stay in the Dividend Junior Corner Suite. This particular room is called the Pender King Suite Suite.

The location of the EXchange Hotel Vancouver is very convenient: a short walk away from Canada Place, shopping, dining, Chinatown, and Gaston. Being so close to the city’s many favourite spots has been definitely helpful.

This article might contain affiliate links. Read the disclaimer about affiliate links & PR gifting here. 
The stay was sponsored by the hotel, which did not review or approve the story.

The Vibe & Shared Spaces 

The hotel lobby is quite small: a porter desk followed by a hall with elevators that go to your specific floor only. The old Stock Exchange architecture is notable in the fine details of the elevator design and the decorative arch sealing that I could not stop staring at. 

The check-in desk is located on the second floor, directly across from the elevator. This space has a lovely sitting area on the right and a small bridge to the hotel restaurant on the left. We only stayed here for one night so I haven’t had the time to wonder about this floor. The hotel certainly has a modern, vibrant feel, something that welcomes you upon entry, in that cool and classy kind of way.

The top left image is the hotel lobby on the ground floor. The second image is of the small table at the entryway.

Bear vs Bull statute on the entryway table and the hallway leading to the bedroom.

Inside the Suite

Pender King Suite Suite wraps around the building’s corner occupying well over 400 square feet of space. At the entrance is a coat rack with some storage and a bar sync with an ice bucket. Not being able to see the full room upon entry certainly created a bit of mystique. 

Once you turn the corner you see a long hallway, windows on one side and a door on the other. The door leads into a full-size bathroom suite. Single sync, toilet with a privacy door, and on the left soaker tub and a large shower. This side of the bathroom is all glass. The tub is surprisingly comfortable (I often slide down uncomfortably but not here) and offers a shaded view of the city, you can read, watch TV, tease your partner through the glass, or just stare out in the window.

The bathroom is equipped with towels, robes, and L’Occitane bath products.

On the left is the spacious shower and on the right is the tub as seen from the bedroom.

Past the bathroom, the space widens to its fullest. Baroque King bed on the left, framed by two side tables with mirrors. The entire back wall is a wall mural, dark with splashes of bright colours, contrasting the black and white photo art on the walls. A small desk across the bed hosts a coffee maker, a welcome tray with Mission Hill wine, and of course a television. Past the bedroom area is a sitting corner with a lush velvet pull-out sofa, a glass coffee table, and another storage cabinet. 

The floor-to-ceiling windows are shaded by two layers of automated curtains: transparent and dark. You simply pull on one end and they spread apart like magic. Or technology, if you choose to use the remote control near the bed, whatever sparks your fancy. The 11th-floor city view looks at a couple of office buildings and the street. This seemed rather dull at first but then we kept finding ourselves staring out the window, decoding the lives of the people we saw on the other side. In that “Rare Window” kind of way.

Knowing that the room would be impressive we checked in on time and took full advantage of its amenities: the bath, the view, the wine, and the open space. I can certainly get used to this life in Vancouver. 

Note: If you are looking for some outdoor activities near the city here is a lovely list of some Vancouver City nearby hikes.

Dining & Entertainment 

Hydra is a full-service restaurant and bar located on the second floor. The resultant focus is on Mediterranean cuisine. The design of the space is stunning and the menu looks exciting and robust. For this stay, I did not have an opportunity to dine at Hydra though so you’ll have to let me know how it was .

I have visited a range of other restaurants nearby but that will have to be a whole other story. For now, though, I highly recommend visiting the historic Marine Building around the corner and Nightingale Restaurant. It is a stunning piece of architecture and the restaurant menu is filled with tasty delicious farm-to-table plates. Note that the entrance to the restaurant is a separate door around the corner.

Revolving door entrance into the Marine building followed by a delicious pasta from Nightingale restaurant.

Wellness & Fitness 

There is a state-of-the-art fitness center located on the premises open from 6 AM to 9 PM daily. To access it you will need to grab a pass card from guest services. There is a pretty good selection of equipment including treadmills, spin bikes, ellipticals, recumbent bikes, a rowing machine, free weights, and resistance training pieces. The cool thing, however, is there is a fitness training study where you can stream workout videos on a SmartTV so you can keep up with your at-home routine.

It is worth mentioning that this is a Four Diamond, Executive Hotel property. Executive Hotels and Resorts may seem boutique in comparison to the massive hotel chains we are all familiar with but they do own 17 properties across North America. All of these properties are strategically located in the heart of the city offering “quality workmanship, excellent customer service, and attention to detail”. I certainly witnessed this at the EXchange.

* * *

EXchange Hotel Vancouver
475 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2B3
Book directly on exchangehotelvan.com or via booking.com for a genius discount.

The hotel offers “better-than-the-best-rate” and free parking for locals if booked directly. Knowing me I would still compare with multiple other sites to see where I get the best deal. 

Rooms start at $198/night for The Boutique Studio Queen, personally, I find that room way too small.
Dividend Junior corner suites, Pender King Suite is seen in this article, start at $429/night.

The post Where to stay in Vancouver: EXchange Hotel Vancouver appeared first on Paths to Travel.

Stop one: Overnight at Halcyon Hot Springs

Great little resort with a few cabins spread out on the edge of a hill overlooking a lake. The rooms are spacious and cozy with a separate kitchen. Pretty much all of them have a little deck and look out onto the mountains. In the main building are the 3 hot spring pools: crazy hot, crazy cold, and warm. On a lower level is a large pool, this one closes a little early and opens quite late (after checkout). The resort is a bit off the main path and involves a ferry ride as a part of the highway. The fairy comes once an hour, and you can get out of the car to enjoy the view during the quick ride over.

Address: BC-23, Nakusp, BC V0G 1R0

Tip: Drink some local beer, there are many options.

Stop two: Emerald Lake

The colour of the water is truly majestic, the views everywhere are amazing, and the hiking trails vary in complexity. There is enough here to do for a good few hours if not an entire day. We rented a canoe and took it around the lake for an hour. I could’ve easily spent two because the lake is bigger than it seems. Bring a picnic for a snack to make the most of your visit and hike. Before heading out, do some shopping at the park store (they sell North Standard Trading Post stuff!). Unless you’re just walking around the lake, the hikes are pretty steep walks up so proper hiking gear is important.

As you drive towards Banff there are multiple opportunities to pull over and do some brief site seeing. At this point of the road trip the mountains, pines, and glacier rivers are everywhere. A few lovely spots to have a picnic and see some odd historical sites.

Stop three: Johnston Creek

We tried to go to Lake Louise but this location is so insanely popular now that the parking lots are full by 6 am with cars and tour buses. I can only imagine how crowded it is around the lake. What we really wanted to see is Moraine Lake but since it is located behind Lake Louise the whole thing was just a nightmare. We tried twice, gave up, and instead went to see some waterfalls at Johnston Creek. It’s a fairly easy hike on the side of a tall cascade of water. You can hike pretty much all the way to the top with multiple viewpoints and rest stops. And at the top, on a nice day, you’ll see a rainbow!

Stop four: Banff Gondola Park 

Another spot you can easily spend a day in! If you’re brave enough, you can hike all the way up. For everyone else, there’s the gondola and then the wooden stair path to the top of the mountain, where the historic weather observatory is located. The view from the observation deck is breathtaking – mountains everywhere! The restaurant at the top is quite nice as well, we had a lovely snack with some local beers. For overnight, we stayed in Canmore. It is a smaller town with a few wineries and cool nighttime spots to hang out in. Banff is generally more pricey and harder to find accommodations.

Tip: get tickets ahead of time online to avoid the lineups.

Stop five: Kelowna wineries

Driving back towards Vancouver we went through the Okanagan Valley. We stayed overnight at an AirBNB, and had a nice dinner in Kelowna and some local beers for a nightcap. The wineries are in clusters and all fairly close to the main route but it’s good to have the map of the valley. You can find a map at most wineries or a local information centre. Here are the wineries I liked the most:

Gray Monk Winery: This lovely winery has a nice selection and a beautiful restaurant with a nice menu and a deck overlooking the vineyard.

Indigenous World Winery: the winery merges modern culture with Indigenous history. There is a great selection of wines served by lovely and very knowledgeable people.

Tip: Pull over and buy some fresh fruit and cherries from a local farmer.

The Hatch: as soon as you enter the yard you know this place is different from the rest. In their own words, The Hatch is a tasting emporium. Ran by a bunch of ‘rebels’ with tattoos and loud music this place is super fun. The wine selection is quite unique as well. The labels are custom-made by a local artist and each label has a story as interesting as the wine itself.

Quails’ Gate Winery: a luxurious spot with a beautiful view, a large area to walk around and ponder, and an amazing restaurant. Having already done the tasting we picked our favourite wine, half of the things on the menu, and sat there for a few hours in blissful mist enjoying our meal. Great end to the road trip!

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