A Getaway in May

There is almost nothing more beautiful than springtime in Canada. With the new season in full bloom, we can say goodbye to the cold winter months as the days get lighter and longer. Enjoy Canada’s warm and sunny weather by taking part in some fun spring activities. There are lots of things to do to keep entertained throughout May, from music festivals to Victoria Day.

Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take advantage of Whistler’s glorious spring snow. There’s nothing like skiing in the sunshine! Skiers will be pleased to know that thanks to the amazing snow this season, there will be plenty of fresh powder on Blackcomb Mountain until the end of May. Have lunch al fresco on the terrace of a mountain hut and enjoy an après ski session into the long evening. With après options scattered across the slopes you will have a great time no matter where you end up, but our favourites are Dusty’s, Garibaldi Lift Co. and Merlin’s Bar & Grill.

Between 20 and 23 May 2016 Whistler’s third annual great outdoors festival, GO Fest takes place. Falling on the Victoria Day long weekend, the four-day event offers an array of activities such as sports, music, art and culture, in a beautiful wooded setting. Be inspired by the festival’s Adventure Film Series, which engages visitors with the environment through films and conversations. Don’t miss Crud 2 Mud too – it’s great! Pick up your skis or snowboard and race down the slopes of Whistler Mountain, then climb onto your bike for the next stage of the sprint through Whistler Mountain Bike Park, to meet the cheering fans waiting in the village below.

For more Victoria Day fun, why not head over to the Queen’s namesake city on Vancouver Island? Victoria is easy to get to by ferry or plane if you’re staying in the Vancouver region and promises an incredible parade to celebrate the holiday. The three-hour parade begins at 9am every Victoria Day and boast hundreds of musical floats, marching bands and festive clowns. Meanwhile, on the opposite coast of Canada, Toronto will put a spotlight on arts and culture with a photography festival during the whole month of May. This year is the 20^th anniversary of the Contact Photography Festival, which fills Toronto’s galleries, cultural hubs, streets and public spaces with incredible artwork that is free to view.

For another getaway destination, head to downtown Niagara Falls for a festival of food, beverages and music. Marking its tenth anniversary, Springlicious will take place 27 to 29 May 2016. The Niagara Falls provide a splendid backdrop to the endless entertainment, culinary delights and exceptional beers and wines on offer. With a great line-up of diverse musicians, there is something for all guests to enjoy. As the historic downtown plays host to this evolving event, organisers hope to welcome over 30,000 visitors this year from all over the world – don’t miss out! Springalicious has been rated highly for being family friendly, great value and incredibly exciting.

Canada’s spring activities provide great entertainment. If you are looking for a lovely getaway then try out our highly recommended places – we love them!