If the thought of relaxing in natural hot springs, wandering amongst graceful mountain paths and enjoying the bright lights and buzz of the city ignites your senses, then America’s Pacific Northwest is just waiting to be discovered.
- San Juan Islands, Washingtonecstaticist / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-SA
The Pacific Northwest just oozes with character and charm and with an underlying sense of humor, the area has a unique character all of its own. Here are just five of the fabulous places you really must visit!
The San Juan Islands, Washington.
Setting sail to the San Juan archipelago is like entering a brand new world… a place where cars take second stage to bicycles and the beautiful madrone trees outnumber buildings. Just a scenic ferry ride takes you from the Washington mainland to this island paradise. Visitors will love the slow pace of life and the wealth of outdoor opportunities which allow you to fully immerse yourself in mother nature. Whether it be bicycling, kayaking, whale watching or simply relaxing with a great meal and a glass of wine, the San Juan Islands are a must visit.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver has often been voted one of the best places to live and work in the world and with good reason. Vancouver offers something to suit all ages and interests and is Western Canada’s largest city. A sparkling clean city, dense waterfront forest and beautiful snow capped mountains, its easy to see why so many people come to visit, live or work here. City highlights include the sea to sky vistas of Stanley park, the quirky, artsy Granville Island and the enticing West Side Beaches.
The Oregon Coast, Oregon
Taking a drive along Oregon’s coastline is one of those experiences you will never forget. Perfect at any time of year, visitors can expect to marvel at a wealth of natural sights and vistas to blow your mind. Huge rocky headlands stand high above the ocean and powerful rivers flow through rocks and forest to create the perfect natural playground. Outdoor enthusiasts will love this area with excellent opportunities to enjoy hiking, boating and fishing. You’ll also find the Oregon Dunes here, some of the largest coastal dunes in the world as well as whale watching opportunities and abundant wildlife.
The Yakima Valley, Washington
The Yakima Valley offers a broad spectrum of different landscapes, experiences and has a fascinating history. Scorched hills and 300 days of sunshine provide the perfect growing conditions for more than 100 award winning wineries. The Yakima River sparkles and glimmers its way through this otherwise dry desert as it makes its way from the snow capped Snoqualmie Pass to join the might Columbia.
Mt Rainier, Washington
Standing proud at 14,411ft the majestic Mount Rainier is the Cascade’s highest peak. This north western icon looks impressive at any time of year with its snow caped summit, forest covered foothills and flower carpeted meadows. Take a hike here to fully appreciate the natural beauty which this area offers. There are hikes to suit all levels of fitness and aspiring climbers can take on the alluring conical peak on a formidable challenge. With an atmospheric clouded summit and 26 glaciers, Mount Rainier is sure to raise the pulse of even the most jaded traveller.
