Author: Natasha Netsky Davis
I have always longed to go to BC to escape the summer heat. Before autumn arrives, have a few days to relax, recharge and soak in nature. In early August, my husband and I packed up the car for a four-day, three-night vacation. We wanted somewhere close enough for a leisurely drive, but far enough away that we felt we had left our daily lives behind. Our bucket list was simple: good restaurants, a beautiful lake, and activities that felt rejuvenating rather than rushed. Pemberton ticks all the boxes: It's a welcoming valley town just 20 minutes north of Whistler, with a slower pace and sweeping mountain views that make you feel calm the moment you arrive.
Where water works its magic
I didn’t realize how much of an impact water would have on my trip until I got there. In Pemberton, you're never far from it. Numerous creeks and rivers, including the Lillooet, Ryan, Miller, Pemberton and Green rivers, all flow into the valley, surrounding you with the sounds and sights of flowing water. That constant downward thrust seemed to take away all the worries I was carrying.
These aren't just any bodies of water. When the glaciers melt in the summer, they turn bright green. The color is so bright you can hardly believe it is real. It comes from rock dust, which is fine sediment ground up by glaciers and is carried downstream where it reflects sunlight, creating a milky green glow. Sometimes, algae with tiny calcium carbonate scales produce flashes of light. It’s nature’s remedy, in bright colors.
First impressions and first attempts
From the moment we arrived at Pemberton Valley Lodge the tone was set. The staff are welcoming, smiling and very helpful. The cabin itself was airy and spotless, and when I walked into our one-bedroom suite with its fully equipped kitchenette, patio, and walk-in shower, it felt like we had way more space than we needed. I dropped off my luggage and within minutes I was in the pool, recuperating from the 35°C afternoon heat. It happened to be happy hour.
The next morning we started walking around One Mile Lake, where the boardwalk circles the sparkling green water. By 11am it was already scorching hot so I jumped right in. A cold plunge sent a chill through my body and I felt ecstatic. There are mountains above my head, meadows in front of me, and fresh mountain air filling my lungs. It's almost spiritual.
Markets, walks and waterfalls
Later, after reading poolside, I wandered over to the Friday Farmers Market. The scent of Aboriginal elixirs hung in the air, a folk band played nearby, and I munched on ginger raspberries while browsing the produce and handicraft stalls. Around 5pm I hiked to Nairn Falls. As I got closer and closer, the sound of rushing water became louder and louder, until I finally saw the majestic, noisy and exciting waterfall.
Dinner at Fescues at Big Sky Golf Course, the mist of the vineyards, the view of the meadows, the friendliest staff and my lovely husband wearing his favorite Hawaiian shirt made for a great end to the night.
Horses, meadows and glacial lake
Day two was the highlight of my trip: a two-hour horseback riding tour with Copper Cayuse Outfitters. Captain, my horse carries me across the riverbed, his hooves on invisible stones beneath the water. It felt like a dream as we meandered through warm, sunny trails and stopped in a beautiful meadow. There are mountains in all directions, the captain is eating grass contentedly, and I always have a smile on my face.
After the ride, I refueled with a kale, spirulina, and spinach smoothie from an organic food store, then drove to Lake Birkenhead, a glacier-fed oasis perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. I swam, then read under the willow tree, and the day slipped away in quiet bliss.
Leave the lighter
Our last morning was slow and sweet. Cuddle the lambs at North Arm Farm, buy jams, drink a refreshing cider at The Beer Farmers and admire their Highland cows before heading home.
Four days and three nights, I left with a lighter beating. At Pemberton, water, mountains and warm, easy smiles work together to heal the mind, body and soul.
Natasha Netschay runs a PR and communications agency in Vancouver and teaches writing courses at SFU. She also writes wellness articles for travel, yoga, and mental health media.
Pemberton Valley Lodge is a valued partner of Wellness Travel BC. Located about half an hour north of Whistler, the valley offers a more tranquil atmosphere to Whistler's energy, and the lodge is the perfect base from which to explore the area. For more information, please visit https://wellnesstravelbc.com/partners/pemberton-valley-lodge/.
