Lions Bay British Columbia is a delightful little village situated on the side of Howe Sound, with breathtaking views of the mountains and water. It is conveniently located on Highway 99, just ten minutes north of Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal and ten minutes south of Furry Creek Golf Course, on the way to Squamish or Whistler. Not only that, this scenic village of Lions Bay, is located about half an hour north of the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver. Right in the middle of 2010!

The village is becoming well known for its Lions Bay General Store and Cafe, where you can stop and get a latte or have a lovely lunch. And then stroll down to the Lions Bay Art Gallery at the other end of the building and discover some wonderful Canadian landscape art or Canadian gifts. And if you want to check out the price of real estate you can check out the realtor window along the way.

The Lions Bay Beach Park

Lions Bay also has a Marina with a boat launch down at the water's edge, but if you want to go to the beach, the best place is the Porteau Cove campground just ten minutes north of Lions Bay where there is a public beach and picnic ground. This scenic spot is perfect for family bonding, and the park is often full of families either heading to or from the world-class resort of Whistler BC.

People do hike up to the Lions peaks on the North Shore Mountains from Lions Bay, but be prepared to park your car in the Park and Ride under the highway as there is only residential parking up where the trail starts in the forest, so your car may be towed or ticketed if you park in a residential parking only spot. And also be prepared to meet black bears along the way as it is their natural home.

On The Road To The 2010 Olympic Winter Games

Lions Bay has started to attract recent retirees and commuters looking for a beautiful home away from the city, but close enough to get there with little trouble. Speaking of trouble, Lions Bay was often cut-off by landslides that would cripple the only roadway in or out. But with recent improvements to the highway for the upcoming Vancouver-Whistler 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Lions Bay looks safe and secure. Incorporated in 1971, currently there are less than 1400 total residents, including some well-known Canadian celebrity figures.

You will not be disappointed with the drive out to Lions Bay; the beauty of Howe Sound alone is well worth the drive. This is Canadian living and outdoors at its best.