Deep Cove and Mount Seymour, nature just a few minutes from the city centre

As mentioned above, there are plenty of activities available in Deep Cove, enough to fill a summer Sunday afternoon. The most common is to hire a kayak or paddle and venture out onto the Deep Cove waters. It costs $45 for two hours' hire of a single kayak, and $70 for a duo in a double kayak. There is also the option of sailing with a guide, which is ideal for special events such as the famous "full moon", which brings a huge number of Vancouverites to the area. Gliding over the waters reflected in the silvery light of the full moon is a unique experience. Don't be mistaken, though: although the surrounding forests and the colour of the water suggest yet another Canadian lake, it is in fact the ocean that touches the shores of this place, more specificallyIndian Arm, a steep-sided fjord some twenty kilometres long.

The Quarry Rock hike is hugely popular in the area. For good reason, its simplicity is matched only by the superb view that awaits you at the end of the path. A breathtaking panorama overlooking the whole of Deep Cove, with a view of the Indian Arm. An amateur walker can reach this spot in just under two hours. Although it is one of the most accessible in the region, you still need to be properly equipped. The loop is strewn with roots and rocks. It's also worth noting that the locals strongly recommend carrying pepper-based anti-bear spray, a scent that repels bears. Quarry Rock is right on their territory. For the time being, however, the bears are relatively quiet, as the trail has been closed since 2020 due to deterioration caused by extreme weather. It is due to reopen in autumn 2023.

After the 3.8km walk, what could be better than a donut from the famous Honey's Doughnuts? The famous pastry has even been acclaimed by Kate Winslet. However, you'll have to be prepared for a bit of a wait - it's better to take two for the trouble! The problem is that hiking and doughnuts make you thirsty. Fortunately,Deep Cove Brewers and Distilleryis just around the corner. It's famous for its locally produced gin and vodka. You can enjoy beer and cocktails, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Deep Cove also has a number of local artists' and interior design shops, so you'll be sure to bring home a souvenir from Indian Arm.

The various activities at Deep Cove also give you the chance to discover the local wildlife. When you leave the coast, you'll be sailing through sea lion territory. Many have taken up residence on the various surrounding islands, all accessible by kayak. Obviously, it's best to leave these animals alone, but you can still observe them from a distance. On the paths in the hills, you can hear and see all the varieties of birds in the region. They hide in the foliage of the trees alongside the squirrels. The luckiest and quietest may come across deer and hinds. Although it can be an unforgettable memory, it is not advisable to come across a black bear.

Many of the local trails are closed in winter, but Mont Seymour remains accessible. There are around twenty possible routes during the season, ranging from two kilometres to 10 times that, with hikes of around twenty kilometres. Even over this distance, you can't get enough of the sound of boots or snowshoes in the fresh snow. The summit is also ideal for skiing and snowboarding, weather permitting. The panoramas take on a whole new flavour during the white season, when you can admire the immaculate forests as far as the eye can see, with Vancouver in the distance losing its grandeur in the immensity and calm of the surrounding countryside.