Hot Vancouver getaway: Pemberton Valley Lodge

Two and a half hours from Budget Rent a Car on West Georgia and Homer, I'm sitting with my feet up in a shaded porch enjoying the radiating heat and mountain view from the warm and welcoming Pemberton Valley Lodge.  With three boys lazing around in the spacious living room of our suite doing what they do best: screen time, I'm a relaxing single mother, so well taken care of that I haven't had time to wonder if it would have been more fun to have had a partner along.  In a few minutes, we'll go to sample the pool. I can see it around the corner, umbrellas, deck and that drop dead beautiful view of the craggy mountain, and the piney one in front of it, and closer in the wind rustling through the  leaves of the aspen trees. 

The air smells sweet and dry and I'm looking forward to checking out a variety of fun-looking activities from the area:  the ropes adventure course twenty k from here, an eight hour rafting trip, horseback riding, or golf.  BC's best golf course is only a few minutes away, the hotel manager told me and one of my favourites spots, Nairin Falls, is about the same distance.  Most of all though, it's hot, the sky is cloudless and this feels like a perfect place to rest some weary bones, rent bikes, let the internet go and have a great family time.  Knowing that this beautiful suite is waiting, the table already set enticingly for a homecooked dinner (suites come wtih very ample kitchens), is a delicious feeling.  Nothing to do now but have fun.

Publisher's report card: This hotel offers mid-range comfort.  Nothing fancy, but everything you need.  The double suites are spacious and in good taste. The beds are comfortable. It's quiet at night, despite being located next to Highway 99.  The views from the rooms are spectacular and it's well-located for, golfing, hiking, horse back riding, or hang gliding---and in winter, skiing.