Embarking on a Journey of Splendor and Challenge
"Dangerously Beautiful" 50-mile round trip
Vancouver is undeniably a city brimming with opportunities for numerous activities, whether it be a tranquil walk around Downtown Vancouver or a jog across the scenic Stanley Park Seaway. Yet, one activity has seen immense popularity among locals and visitors alike - biking across the lower mainland.
The city has evolved since my days as a resident, with a notable increase in bike lanes and cyclist-friendly paths, encouraging a biking boom across the city. With the convenience of bikes, traveling from one end of the city to the other is a breeze, taking just around 20 minutes. Additionally, the city's transportation system is incredibly bicycle-friendly, making commuting within the lower mainland as easy as pie.
Starting off at 7 am, this bike ride is a personal favorite of mine. It is a journey of endurance, patience, and a resolve to tackle roads that can, at times, be treacherous. The view, however, is absolutely spectacular, and the exercise, though strenuous, is rewarding once completed. I fondly refer to this experience as a "Dangerously Beautiful" 50-mile round trip.
The journey begins at Grey Point, and the route encompasses the South West Marine Drive and one of North America's most magnificent universities - the University of British Columbia, or UBC. Encompassing over 900 acres of prime real estate along Vancouver's shorelines, UBC has been shaping minds since 1908. As British Columbia's oldest university, it stands tall at #35 in Best Global Universities and caters to over 60,000 students annually. It is an institution I am proud to have attended, given the enriching experience it offered.
Navigating through the university, one is shielded by the lush tree canopy as the sound of waves crashing against the shore fills the air. Wreck Beach, while not easily accessible due to its cliff-like surroundings, is known for its status as a welcoming and safe clothing-optional beach in Vancouver. If you walk several yards north, you'll find the colorful remnants of Vancouver’s Point Grey Battery, a defense outpost from World War II.
Beyond UBC and along North West Marine, we arrive at the famous beaches of the Spanish Banks. Named to commemorate the 1792 meeting between the English and Spanish, these beaches are particularly loved for their sandy shoreline and beautiful views, especially enjoyable at low tide.
As we venture through the neighborhoods of Vancouver, the wafting aroma of coffee fills the air. The Vancouver lifestyle is fueled by this beloved beverage, and one of the places that perfectly bridges the city's traditional European coffee heritage with the contemporary scene is Milano Coffee. The scent of their brew is an anticipatory delight, promising a satisfying cup post-ride.
Approaching the city center, the buildings rise tall as we cross the Burrard Street Bridge. One of the oldest surviving bridges in the Vancouver area, it holds significant historical value. Featured on a Canada Post stamp in 2011, the bridge is a splendid representation of Canadian Art Deco architecture.
Maneuvering through the city, we make our way back to the English Bay. Serving as the connection between the city and the ocean, English Bay has been instrumental in Vancouver's development over the past century. Its attractions include the beach, the seawall, the Inukshuk Monument, and it even inspired the Canadian band Blue Rodeo to write a song about it.
Our journey then leads us to Stanley Park, albeit briefly, as our destination is the Lion's Gate. This stage of the journey is challenging yet beautiful, hence the name "Dangerously Beautiful". The Lion's Gate, or the First Narrows Bridge, has been standing since 1938, connecting Vancouver to the North Shore municipalities of the District of North Vancouver. The term "Lions Gate" is a reference to a pair of mountain peaks visible from the bridge. Two cast concrete lions, crafted by Charles Marega, guard the southern entrance of the bridge.
As we traverse the Lions Gate Bridge, the refreshing sea breeze rejuvenates us for the adventure that lies ahead. We turn westward on Marine Drive, biking through West Vancouver, a picturesque community nestled between mountains and waters.
The ride becomes more exhilarating as we start ascending the first hill, leading us to the first of many twists and turns along the cliffs of Marine Drive. Our first stop is St. Francis-in-the-Wood, a historic Anglican parish church located in the Lower Caulfeild neighbourhood. This location is part of the enchanting Tidley Cove, contributing to the region's historical richness.
Continuing our ride westward on Marine Drive, our second stop is the majestic Lighthouse Park, home to some of the largest Douglas Fir trees in Greater Vancouver, along with awe-inspiring water views.
Our journey doesn't end here. We continue biking west, navigating the serpentine roads along the cliffs and basking in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, until we reach Horseshoe Bay. Known for its BC Ferry terminal, we pause here for an early lunch while watching ferries depart and arrive, appreciating the simple yet beautiful elements of life.
Yet, our ride is far from over. We retrace our route back, returning to where our cars await, concluding this "Dangerously Beautiful" 50-mile round trip. This journey, filled with splendid views and demanding paths, captures the heart of Vancouver's beauty and spirit.
Are you ready to embark on this journey?
Canadian Adventure Journey
Embarking on a new series of travel adventures, I invite you to join me as I share personal anecdotes and captivating moments from my journey back to my beloved home, Vancouver, Canada. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring natural beauty this region has to offer. I sincerely hope you find joy in this narrative.
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