A Girls' Weekend in Steveston
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For an unforgettable girlfriend getaway, Steveston Village in Richmond, British Columbia, is just the place. While Steveston is proud to be Canada’s largest commercial fishing harbour, a love of fish isn't required to make a trip here enjoyable. Officially part of Richmond, Steveston is situated at the end of No. 1 Road where the Fraser River and the Strait of Georgia merge. A small community bursting with things to do, Steveston’s charm lies in its history, and the way that history is preserved and celebrated.
At the turn of the 19th century this village was home to North America’s largest cannery operation. Strolling the boardwalk, it is easy to imagine the original wooden walkways lining the river, connecting more than a dozen canneries that were the lifeblood of this community. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery, built in 1894, is one of the only surviving canneries in British Columbia. Designated a National Historic Site in recognition of its place in history, tours are available of the cannery from March to November. Today the boardwalk outside it takes visitors past restaurants, boutiques and museums, creating an intriguing contrast to the fishing vessels that line the wharf.
Time without the demands of work and family is the perfect time to feed the mind as well as the soul. To better understand Steveston’s past, the Britannia Heritage Shipyard, London Heritage Farm and the Steveston Historical Society Museum are must-sees. For an extra-special experience, themed teas are held frequently at London Heritage Farm, while the heritage flower garden is a delight in itself. Culturally, Steveston supports a diverse variety of artists whose works are shown in local galleries. Works on display and for sale include paintings, mixed media, art glass, clay sculpture, and northwest coast jewelry, prints and wood carvings. WHAT EVERY GIRL NEEDS A weekend away with the girls seems almost pointless without some time at the spa, and Steveston has a healthy selection to choose from. With services ranging from traditional manicures and pedicures to the luxury of a Vichy rain massage or the heavenly Indian Champissage, Steveston’s spas don’t disappoint. For those very important girlfriend getaways, select spas feature a double treatment room for side-by-side treatments. Exotic alternatives that fuse the body and mind include belly dancing classes, yoga and inspirational workshops. ATTENTION SHOPAHOLICS
Shopping in Steveston is much like treasure hunting. The best bargains and greatest finds are worth the time it takes to browse through the many unique stores. Whether searching for that special antique teacup, some New Age reading material, or one-of-a-kind decor items, Steveston is sure to have it. For an equally interesting shopping experience, Richmond’s Golden Village can be easily accessed from Steveston via Number 3 Road. Called the Asian Gem of British Columbia this shopping district takes visitors on an international journey, complete with Chinese New Year Celebrations each January or February, without ever leaving Richmond.
Despite Steveston’s small size, dining is not a problem. Everything from charming cafés, to fish and chips on the wharf, to exquisite fine dining is available in the historic core of the village. There are hearty breakfasts at the sun-filled Cannery Cafe, superb lattes at the Steveston Coffee Company, terrific fish and chips at Pajo's and fine northern Italian cusine at Papi's Ristorante Italiano. PAJAMA PARTY A vacation weekend calls for long lie-ins, comfortable rooms and pampering. Luckily, Steveston's accommodations can deliver. In keeping with the quaint seaside atmosphere, the primary lodgings available in Steveston are bed and breakfasts. A wider range of options, including hotels and motels, are available a short drive away in Richmond. |
