Stanley Park, an oasis of nature in the heart of the city

Stanley Park boasts an abundance of flora, woods, gardens and ponds, not to mention the 800-year-old cedar, the park's emblem. The wildlife is not to be outdone, with many species of birds to be seen, but not only: you may come across squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, beavers or skunks. It is strictly forbidden to feed these wild animals! From Lost Lagoon to Prospect Point via Third Beach, take the time to explore the park's wealth of trails.

If the wildlife isn't enough, you can expand your discoveries with theVancouver Aquarium. It is now one of the largest in Canada and has enjoyed an excellent reputation since it opened in 1956 in Stanley Park. Over 500 species and 60,000 animals in all will fascinate you for at least 2-3 hours. Tickets cost around €30 (reduced rate for under-13s, students and senior citizens).

Sea otters, seals, sea lions and walruses are a huge hit with the public. With sharks, dolphins, caimans and penguins, there is real diversity. It was the first aquarium in the world to exhibit an orca in the 1960s, until a law in 1996 prohibited the aquarium from capturing cetaceans in their natural environment. There have been no orcas at the Vancouver Aquarium since 2001, and the only animals there are either rescued or born in captivity.

The aquarium focuses on the flora and fauna of British Columbia and, more broadly, the West Coast of North America, but there are also several tropical basins on offer. The aquarium features terrariums as well as various exhibitions and activities. The aquarium promotes the preservation of the oceans and aims to raise visitors' awareness through a range of interactive exhibits, as well as by funding conservation projects from the profits generated by visitors.

If swimming with sea lions and belugas has inspired you, you can go for a swim on Third Beach, which is naturally covered in fine sand. The surrounding trees form a shield that insulates the area from the noise of the surrounding city. Picnics and even barbecues are permitted!

Stanley Park 's other most famous attraction is its collection of totem poles at Brockton Point. Over time, many totem poles have been found in and around Vancouver. Replicas of these totem poles are now on display in the park. The originals, some of which date back to the 19th century, are to be found in various museums. The totem poles tell mythical stories, carved in wood by ancient Indian tribes, and eight of them are painted. The ninth and final one, unpainted, was added in 2009 by Robert Yelton, a member of the Squamish nation who lived on the site where Stanley Park now stands.

The famous Seawall is a cornice that runs around the park, skirting the sea. Along its 8 km of promenade, you'll discover a wide variety of beautiful views over Vancouver. On foot or by bike, it's a must-see in Stanley Park.