North Shore

North and West Vancouver collectively make up the district known as the North Shore, situated directly across the Burrard Inlet from the downtown core. Rich in nature and world-famous outdoor attractions, the North Shore mountains are host to snow sports in the winter and challenging hiking and biking trails in the summer. (Fact: you don’t know pain until you’ve climbed the Grouse Grind. “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster” is a steep and rugged 2.9-kilometre trail that rises 853 metres.) Daredevils must visit Lynn Canyon and Capilano suspension bridges, while those who prefer to keep their feet on terra firma can walk the seawall stretching along West Vancouver, or shop for local delicacies at Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver.

EAT:

Traditional Persian cookies made with chickpeas and walnuts at the Rose Bakery (1537 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver, 604-980-2649).

DRINK:

A chilled glass of B.C. pinot gris on the patio at the Beach House at Dundarave Pier (150 25th St., West Vancouver, 604-922-1414).

BROWSE:

The city’s newest pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall, featuring boutique (Kiss and Makeup) and bigger (Whole Foods) shopping (The Village at Park Royal, Taylor Way and Marine Dr., West Vancouver, 604-925-9576)