Travel to Powell River, BC

Manzanita Restaurant in Powell River, BC on the Sunshine Coast

After my enjoyable night at Rockwater Secret Cove Resort, the group of us made our way up to Powell River, BC. Also on the Sunshine Coast, Powell River is accessible by a 50-minute ferry ride by BC Ferries.

I was really surprised at how much I liked this small city. The feeling was of a small town lull with some creative sparks lining the streets. Funky shops, laid back cafés and friendly people have the once-prosperous pulp mill (it was the largest in the world at one time) as a backdrop.

Look beyond the eyesore, though, and views of the Georgia Straight and coastal mountains make up for the blemish.

Lunchtime rolled around as soon as we arrived. A trip to Manzanita Restaurant, located in the Old Courthouse Inn, was delicious. 

View from Valentine Mountain near Powell River, BC on the Sunshine Coast

Amy and Allan Sharp treated us to butternut squash and sweet potato soup (with a perfect spicy kick), fried oysters with smoked paprika and capers sauce, bison burgers, and I had a mushroom burger. Desserts were to die for: chocolate cake, carrot cake and, my favourite, crème brulée.

The artwork, which changes “irregularly,” was warm and bold. Artists Megan Dulcie Dill and Anna May Bennett really created a warm environment.

After this substantial meal, we headed to Valentine Mountain for a hike (and a little digestive help). All was well as we admired, yet again, the stunning coast of British Columbia.