Lush forests sit near the water and beneath the rolling mountains of this B.C. city, which perfectly balances serene nature with urban amenities. It’s easy to imagine how it gained the title of the “most livable” city in all of Canada, set up for its residents to have a lifestyle blending adventure with productivity.
North Vancouver is a smaller city with easy access to the major metropolis of Vancouver, separated by the Burrard Inlet. It still has its own bustling downtown area though, that almost lives in juxtaposition to the wilderness that it’s at the edge of.
The Globe and Mail just solidified how unique this place is, in its recently released ranking of Canada’s Most Livable Cities. Aimed at helping Canadians discover the cities that they can thrive in, the publication considered everything from weather and amenities to the long-term impact of climate change.
As you might expect, given it’s in Metro Vancouver, North Vancouver lost some points in terms of its housing score, but still earned the top spot thanks to its other perks. Now officially ranked as the most desirable hub to live in the county, it’s not difficult to picture what life would look like here.
After-work hours can be spent exploring Lynn Canyon Park with its peaceful paths into the forest, where you’ll find trees up to 100 years old, emerald-green coloured swimming holes, and a suspension bridge that can carry you above rushing waters.
On a Saturday afternoon, you can wander around the small village of Deep Cove, taking in the calm waters of the harbour, distant mountains and quaint atmosphere.
Activity is at the forefront here with endless hiking trails, mountain biking in the summer, and skiing in the winter at one of the local hills — Grouse Mountain or Mt. Seymour.
Deep within the acres of woods are some of the most breathtaking parts of nature, like Norvan Falls. Navigate the 7-kilometres into Lynn Headwaters Regional Park and you’ll reach the narrow cascade of water tumbling from a cliff into a shallow pool.
30 Foot Pool is another one of these gems, set back in Lynn Canyon. Its bright green colour and rugged boulders along the shoreline attract many in the summer who want a refreshing dip into the water.
You can get that retreat into nature, but still meet up for happy hour at one of the bars or restaurants in the city. Lower Lonsdale is where you’ll find boutique shopping, breweries, food spots and cute cafes. There’s also a night market in the summer here, making The Shipyards that much more lively.
You’re also still only 30 minutes from Downtown Vancouver so can get all the benefits of one of Canada’s major hubs.
Albeit expensive, it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots around and the lifestyle that it offers is a tempting change from the commotion of what you might expect from typical city life.
Maybe it’s not time for a move, but we can all keep dreaming of North Vancouver days.