November 2015
As my husband and I basked in the sunshine at Copperpoint Resort in Invermere, we watched our kids bob in the pool, taking turns to see who could hold their breath the longest underwater. At the same time Calgary was recovering from a random (and not uncommon) August snowfall, giving credibility to the bragging rights that Invermere is on the warm side of the Rockies. Nothing beats the guilty pleasure of knowing that while our Calgary friends shovelled snow, we slathered sunscreen. Invermere is a three hour drive from Calgary making it a perfect weekend getaway. There are so many adventures to offer families year-round in this mountain paradise.
Where to Stay
Photo Credit: Copper Point Resort
Copper Point Resort
We stayed at Copper Point Resort located just off the highway before heading into Invermere. Copper Point resort has 173 rooms featuring studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites. We found the 700 sq ft one bedroom suite spacious for our two young kids and they got a kick out of having their very own second bathroom. The fully outfitted kitchen and dining tables inside and outside gave our family that comfort of home experience, allowing for a sunny spot to enjoy a meal in the evening warmth. The patio, complete with a barbeque, was perfectly situated with a full view of the playground. Our kids burned off their morning energy scaling the climbing structure while hubby and I relaxed sipping our morning coffee.
Photo Credit: Copper Point Resort
Copper Point is a great place to unwind after experiencing all the nearby adventures. There are both indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs. Open all year, they make taking a hot dip the perfect après ski treat to soothe tired muscles. In warmer weather, snack on s’mores around the resort firepits. Fires are lit upon request and s’mores kits are available for purchase at the 24-hour market in the lobby. After our adventures, we opted to get cozy inside our suite, borrowing a DVD player from the concierge. My kids loved family movie night. We made some popcorn and my kids poured over the DVD collection in the hotel library with tons of movies to borrow free of charge.
What To Do
Mountain Biking
While there are hundreds of kilometres of trails in the Columbia Valley, just 15 minutes from Invermere is the Lake Lillian Trail Network. The biking trails offer stunning views of the river valley, with a beautiful beach area by the lake to enjoy afterwards. Take the road heading to Panorama from Invermere and park at the Lillian Lake. The trail head is across the highway and is suitable for intermediate bikers comfortable with heights. The trail runs fairly close to the edge of some serious drop offs so be careful. My husband gives “The Johnson” two thumbs up!
On-site bike rentals are available at Copper Point Resort
Golf
Calgary has the highest number of golfers per capita in North America so it’s handy this highly popular area has over 20 golf courses. Copper Point has two of its own golf courses, both with impressive views and stunning scenery. The Ridge offers a leisurely game of golf, suitable for families. If you are an avid golfer, the Point is a championship course that is regarded as being one of the best courses in the valley.
Photo Credit Steph Van de Kemp
Skiing
Panorama Mountain Resort – Panorama underwent major construction two seasons ago and opened their Discovery Zone, a beginner skiers paradise. In fact 75% of their 120 trails are geared for beginner and intermediate skiers, making it a great family ski experience for all ages.
Skating
Sharpen those skates! With 34km of groomed track, Lake Windermere’s White Way boasts the longest skating trail in the world! If you are fit, you’ll likely be able to master the course in a couple of hours. If you have little ones in two, you can opt for a shorter loop for a fun family outing.
Food & Drink
Saunders Family Farm Jams
At my last dinner party a little dollop of Saunders pineapple jalapeño jelly on a smear of smoky cheddar placed on a crisp cracker had my guests gushing. Compliments of a little bottle of yummy I picked up in Invermere. Saunders Family Farm makes dozens of delicious jams. You can find their jams in the gift shop at Copperpoint Resort as well as in local shops in town, including Valley Food grocery store. Their farm is a private facility but you can book an appointment to arrange strawberry picking in the summer.
Stolen church coffee
If you love good coffee, be sure to stop by Gerry’s Gelati in downtown Invermere for some Stolen Church coffee. Stolen Church beans are roasted by Gerry Taft in his backyard and sold in this popular gelato shop. Locals can always tell coffee roasting day because the scent wafts through his neighbourhood. We picked up fresh beans roasted the day before and rivals some of the best coffees we’ve ever had.
Kicking Horse Coffee
You’ve probably drank or have seen Kicking Horse Coffee before at your local grocery store but you may not know that Invermere is where it comes from. The stunning roastery offers available tours of the facility. Their vibrant cafe has a wrap around patio so you find a slice of sunshine when sipping your java.
Hopkin’s Harvest
Pick up some local BC produce, pineapple balsamic vinegar and some delicious smoked chicken wings at Hopkin’s Harvest. Less than 5 minutes away from Copper Point, this is a great spot to pick up some goodies to take and make in your fully equipped in-suite kitchen. Hopkin’s offers fresh baked pies, local cheeses, wood-fired pizza and some great gluten-free options. Cash only.
Meet Rusty the Moose. You’ll find him hanging out in downtown Invemere
