The Area - The 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:
Modern French fare at Bistro 1734. Must-tries are the Confit de Canard à l’Orange in a fresh chive crêpe and Travers de Boeuf Bourguignon. 1734 Marine Dr., West Vancouver, (604) 922-8198.

Drink:
The Lost Mexican — tequila, Grand Marnier, fresh apple juice and fresh lime — at Ocean Club, the area’s only late-night bar and lounge. 100 Park Royal S., (604) 926-2326.

Browse:
The boutique shops in Dundarave, a village of West Vancouver. Once you’re weary from browsing, park yourself on the patio of the Dundarave Fish Market, 2423 Marine Dr., (604) 922-1155, for fantastic homemade crab cakes.