Ever feel like you just need to get away for the weekend, but don’t want to spend a ton on flights or sit for hours in the car? In many countries, where ultra-low-cost airlines are a dime a dozen, people don’t think twice about hopping on a flight for a weekend getaway. Here in Canada, it hasn’t always been that easy.
With the launch of Swoop, Canada’s first true ultra-low-cost airline, flights have become increasingly affordable, making quick weekend trips easier and more accessible. Here’s inspiration for what you can do on a weekend escape to Abbotsford or Vancouver. And the best part is, you can find round-trip flights from Edmonton to Abbotsford for $88 – that’s the total price per person [i] .
Once you arrive in Abbotsford, the activities you can enjoy in the Fraser Valley are endless. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend retreat, a couple’s getaway or time with the family. Or, rent a car and head into Vancouver to enjoy a more downtown vibe.
From quaint B&Bs to charming heritage buildings, Abbotsford is brimming with relaxing, rustic charm and is the perfect destination for a weekend of unwinding. Spend the day in Historic Downtown Abbotsford exploring local shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as craft breweries and galleries. Pack a little Farmer’s Market picnic and head Mill Lake Park in the heart of Abbotsford. This lake offers many summer activities along with an art gallery, playground and spray park. You can even try your luck at fishing or enjoy the easy 2.1-km. stroll around the lake.
Foodies should schedule a stop at Bow & Stern to enjoy classic fish and chips, fresh-shucked oysters and market-fresh seasonal offerings. With wine, cocktails and more than 50 different kinds of craft beer from 18 local microbreweries, Bow & Stern is a great place to spend an evening with friends.
The Fraser Valley is known for its many wineries and craft breweries. Take a self-directed wine tour to Singletree Winery, Ripples Estate Winery and Mt. Lehman Winery. If craft brews are more to your taste, check out Field House Brewing Co with its beautifully lit patio, live entertainment and wide selection of craft brews.
Vancouver is only about an hour and fifteen minutes from Abbotsford by car, so it’s easy to zip into the city for a stroll in Stanley Park or visit to the Vancouver Aquarium.
If you’re up for a walk on the wild side, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is a must-see. Prepare to have your breath taken away and replaced with cedar-scented rainforest air as you wander through the tree tops of towering evergreens.
Hop on the Aquabus to Granville Island, a quaint and quirky oasis that’s open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. With shopping, dining and daily entertainment, it’s fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to try some beverages at the Granville Island Brewing, Liberty Wine Merchants and Liberty Distillery. There’s even a boutique sake winery, Artisan Sake Maker.
Learn more about Swoop and its ultra-low fare routes at FlySwoop.com or get connected on social media by following @FlySw2oop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
This content was supplied by the advertiser for commercial purposes. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of Avenue staff.
