Abbotsford, also known as the city in the country, has all the amenities and attractions of a modern city right in the middle of one of the most beautiful and bountiful agricultural areas in Canada.
Spectacular mountain peaks and lush river valleys, fabulous shopping and luxurious accommodation; Abbotsford is an eclectic blend of trend setting urban style and friendly country living. Experience the adrenaline rush of skydiving, the relaxation of a day at the spa, or some down home entertainment at the farmers’ market.
Downtown Abbotsford is the perfect meld of past and present – charmingly restored heritage buildings filled with an amazingly vast selection of the latest fashions, home decor, sporting good and specialties. With a character all its own, this is a really fun place to mosey around. Vintage facades, historical plaques, local art displays, and funky sidewalk benches are all part of this interesting shopping district. Several shops carry on the retro appeal inside, including an elegantly refurbished heritage tea house and a 1950’s style soda shop.
The Circle Farm Tour is quickly becoming one of the most popular vacation itineraries in BC. The Abbotsford Tour has a combination of venues offering opportunities to learn about where food comes from, how it’s grown or raised, how it’s prepared, and how farm fresh ingredients can make all the difference! A number of places offer guided tours or special programs, and you can even learn how to fish.
Located just out of the busy city centre is the Abbotsford International Airport and Tradex. The Abbotsford International Airport is the second largest airport in the Lower Mainland after Vancouver International Airport. It is the hassle-free alternative to traveling through YVR with connections to major domestic and international cities. TRADEX, the Fraser Valley Trade & Exhibition Centre is big on space, people and events. Since it opened in 1991 as the host to Airshow Canada it has become well recognized as one of the premier exhibition facilities in Western Canada. With 120,000 square feet of column free exhibition space, it is perfect for all types of trade and exhibition events.
When you’re in a place that hosts a festival just for berries, you know you’re in a city that loves to celebrate. With more than 200 annual festivals and events, there’s something for everyone and hardly time to catch your breath in between. With Abbotsford’s rich cultural diversity, this cosmopolitan community welcomes you to rejoice in all of the good things in life. For more information visit Tourism Abbotsford.
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Agassiz
Set in a friendly country atmosphere, the picturesque agricultural community of Agassiz is located at the junction of Highways 7 and 9, 35 km southwest of Hope. The rural setting of farms and wilderness enhances the community of Agassiz, which strives to maintain its small town values and caring attitude. From community events to dairy farms, to a major downtown revitalization, to tons of green space, Agassiz has it all for the resident and the visitor.
Steep canyon-like walls along the Harrison River, the heights and crags of Mt. Woodside and Green Mountain and spectacular views of the Cheam Mountain range along the south side of the Fraser River offer spectacular vistas and topographic relief from the vast expanses of the productive farmlands.
In Agassiz you can transport yourself right back to the 1920s at the Kilby Store and Farm, an authentic five-acre heritage site along the banks of the Harrison River. Housed in the oldest wooden railroad station still in existence in BC, at over 100 years old, the Agassiz-Harrison Museum offers a unique look into the area’s past as well.
Agassiz is a year-round playground where on the same day you can swim, tan, boat or fish at one of the area's several lakes, rivers and creeks, tee-off at one of the five area golf- courses, mountain bike, hike or snow-ski at Hemlock Valley, hang-glide at one of two world class jump off points or wander and explore along the dozens of valley floor and mountain trails within the region. For more information visit the District of Kent website.
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Nestled against south-western British Columbia’s magnificent mountains and the sandy beaches of Harrison Lake, Harrison Hot Springs is a vacation destination filled with natural wonders and a rich history. Known for its leisurely days, friendly ways, and home of the legendary Sasquatch, a very elusive, giant apelike creature, the region has a lot to offer.
Take in the picturesque backdrops and the mountain fresh air as you free yourself in nature’s playground. The sand and water of pristine Harrison Lake always make for good times. You can go for a refreshing dip, build a sand castle with the family, explore by kayak, hire a fishing guide, tour world class gardens, experience the countryside Circle Farm Tour or just relax with a good book. Wildlife viewing is fantastic year round and numerous trails are yours to explore. Bald eagles, heron, salmon and seals are all common sights. Also, a visit would not be complete without experiencing the soothing hot water of the public mineral hot pool.
The natural beauty of Harrison is brought to life with numerous events and celebrations. In fact, any season you visit, you will be able to take pleasure in a vibrant array of festivals and community events. Inspire your senses with everything from music concerts to arts festivals, from garden shows to auto racing events, from heritage celebrations to dragon boat racing. Come out and enjoy the festivities! At Harrison Hot Springs, you’ll find nature...just up the road. For more information please visit Tourism Harrison.
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Clean mountain air and pristine spring-fed water is just the start; Hope is a small community nestled between the Coast & Cascade Mountains, at the entrance to the Fraser Canyon. History buffs will find Hope has a rich & colourful past. The First Nations people have lived in this region for thousands of years. Simon Fraser passed through in search of a waterway to the coast. A Hudson Bay Company fur trading fort was also located here. Later the gold rush and the railways spurred building booms that brought pioneers from all over the globe.
Hope is a hiker’s paradise and there’s plenty to do outside. There are trails for everyone from the casual stroller, and rugged mountaineer, to the mountain biker and horse enthusiast. Along with great hikes are great fishing areas, rivers, and lakes to swim and fish in. There is also a walking and driving carving tour, where visitors have the opportunity to see and photograph chainsaw carvings made by local artists. Another extremely popular Hope area attraction is the Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park and its historic Othello-Quintette Tunnels. The abandoned railway tunnels form a stunning setting and a short drive through Hope takes you to these famous tunnels. Experience Hope, a daytripper’s paradise. For more information please visit HopeBC.ca.
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Situated on a hillside overlooking the mighty Fraser River, Mission is a growing community with a natural setting and world-class attractions. It is known for festivals, superb fishing, mountain biking, and hiking in the 26’000- acre municipal forest. Other attractions include Westminster Abbey, the Power House at Stave Falls, Mission Raceway Park, and the beautiful Fraser River Heritage Park.
Mission’s downtown is an eclectic mix of unique, funky shops that carry a wide variety of interesting items you won’t find anywhere else. The personal touch is what many customers rave about after visiting downtown. Mission is very quaint, and people can stroll while admiring the tree-lined street and absorbing the hometown feeling exuded by the friendly, helpful merchants.
Spend a day here and sample wild berry wines, micro-brews, reel in a lively trout, and travel through a majestic forest to visit some exotic beasts. Then relax as you shop for garden topiary, stroll through one of several of Mission’s scenic nurseries, and while away the hours at the folk festival. End your day with a fabulous meal at one of the area's most popular upscale restaurants. Mission is the place to live, work, and play. For more information visit the District of Mission website.
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