Top 5 Mood-Setting Picnic Spots
On any good day, there are innumerable places to pack a basket and head out for a picnic. Whether you want to be near the water, on top of a mountain or in the middle of a grassy expanse, there are plenty of options. Here are five of the best.
Stanley Park
The city's largest urban oasis, Stanley Park has more picnic opportunities than it knows what to do with. You can head to one of the beaches that surround the park, take the kids to one of the playground or water parks, or find a secluded area to snack on sandwiches. Chances are good you will have some visitors in the form of squirrels and birds - make sure you don't feed them unless you enjoy being harassed by the furry or feathered kind.
Whytecliff Park
Located in West Vancouver, Whytecliff Park offers a delightful mix of coastal scenery as a backdrop for your picnic. Towering cedars sway as the ocean breezes blow across the beach and grassy areas. There are glorious views of Howe Sound and if you look close you are bound to see seals bobbing in the water and eagles soaring above.
Buntzen Lake
Buntzen Lake is the perfect spot for a family picnic. With plenty of grass as well as tables to spread out the food, it is ideal for large groups plus everyone will enjoy putting a fishing rod in the lake and testing their luck. Located in Coquitlam just east of Indian Arm, Buntzen Lake is a secluded spot and about 30 minutes from Vancouver.
Stawamus Chief
If you don't mind a bit of a hike, the Stawamus Chief is a fantastic way to enjoy a meal. "The Chief" as it known, is just north of Squamish (67km/42mi from Vancouver) and the 1.5 hour journey to the top is the perfect way to build up an appetite. Hikers are rewarded with amazing views of Howe Sound, the Squamish Valley and the Garibaldi Highlands, not to mention hurried visits from hungry mountain chipmunks.
Spanish Banks
One of Vancouver's most popular beach destinations, Spanish Banks offers plenty of picnic opportunities from laying a blanket on the sand to bbqing on one of the grassy areas just up from the water. Kick a soccer ball, throw a Frisbee, set up a badminton net - Spanish Banks is the place to be.
