Top 10 Reasons to Visit Powell River this Winter

Today is the first "official" day of Winter. What are your winter travel plans? Here's a reminder of the top ten reasons you should make Powell River BC your winter travel destination.

10. The 2010 Winter Olympics. Are you coming to the Vancouver Winter Olympics? Take time to explore all that our region has to offer. Powell River is just two ferry rides and a beautiful drive north of the Olympic venues or a twenty-five minute flight on Pacific Coastal Airlines. Come early and see the Torch Relay pass through Sliammon and Powell River on February 3 with lots of pomp and ceremony.

9. Take the scenic route. If you're at the Olympics, you'll pass the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal more than once. Here's where you catch a ride on BC Ferries to Powell River. Your drive will take you along the uncrowded Sunshine Coast with its scenic vistas. At Earl's Cove, you'll catch the second ferry to Powell River, the Pearl of the Sunshine Coast. The trip itself will be a vacation highlight.

8. Locals know. Talk to some locals on your ferry ride. They'll gladly share some of the history and highlights of our unique region. Stop at the Tourism Powell River Visitor Centre in the Crossroads Village Shopping Centre next to Quality Foods on Mondays through Fridays 9:00-5:00. Pick up a free Powell River Living magazine or Powell River PEAK to see what's happening around town.

7. Cozy seaside resorts. Along the way you'll find signs directing you to great out-of-the-way places to stay. Many take full advantage of our beautiful coast. In winter, you can sit warm and cozy inside while you watch exciting weather outside. South of Powell River look for Kent's Beach, Seabreeze Resort, Suncatcher B&B, Oceanside Resort and Cabins or Beach Gardens. If you're north of town, try the Historic Lund Hotel overlooking the harbour or the Sevilla Resort on an island of its own.

6. Sumptous restaurants. Powell River is well known for its many restaurants. The atmosphere may be casual, but the settings are romantic and food is excellent. The Laughing Oyster on Okeover Inlet is well worth the drive. Try the Shinglemill Pub overlooking spectacular Powell Lake for appies. Head to the Alchemist Restaurant or Savoury Bight for a yummy dinner, or the Manzanita Restaurant at the Old Courthouse Inn for a taste of local cuisine and history. Or just stroll along Marine Avenue and find a world of flavours to choose from.

5. Holiday events. Come spend the Christmas season in Powell River. Special events include the Powell River Chorus on the 2nd and the Academy of Music's Carols by Candlelight on the 11-12th. The Parade of Lights with glittering boats and a bonfire is on the 4th at Willingdon Beach. Don't miss Santa on the 6th in his very own parade down Marine Ave, our quaint shopping district. Then New Years brings the Polar Bear Swim at Willingdon Beach!

4. The Historic Townsite. Powell River was founded as a mill town for the Powell River Paper Company. The homes are now privately owned and the Townsite was designated a National Historic District by Parks and Monuments Canada in 1995. Discover Powell River's history at the Museum near Willingdon Beach and stop by the Tourism Powell River Visitor Centre for a walking tour guide of the old homes and other historic buildings.

3. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Marine effect protects Powell River from heavy snow, but just a few miles inland from late fall to spring you'll find plenty. Bring your own gear or check with Alpha Adventures or Mitchel's for rentals, guides and advice. We even have two free back country cabins in the Knuckleheads Recreation Area. Take care driving on back roads though, they can get boggy at times. Read Up the Winter Trail for more exciting things to do.

2. Lots of other year-round outdoor activities. Whether your favourite activity is boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, ATVing, 4X4 adventuring, horseback riding, kayaking, touring, adventuring or just relaxing, Powell River has it all. Popular Desolation Sound anchorages and forest campgrounds are almost empty for the hardy outdoor enthusiast. But be careful, you might come for a weekend, but stay for a lifetime like we have.

1. Heading up the lake. Powell Lake is my home. Wayne and I live up the lake in all seasons, and winter is one of our favourites. You can rent a float cabin like this one to experience life on the lake for yourself. You can also read about off the grid living on Powell Lake in Up the Lake and Farther Up the Lake available at www.PowellRiverBooks.com.

Need more reasons to come? Visit Tourism Powell River. -- Margy