Hike and Dine Date: Deep Cove

Deep Cove is one of North Vancouver areas that attracts me like a magnet.  I find every excuse to go there and every single time I get a sense of awe of the beautiful BC nature and a sense of inner calm once I reach the quiet rocky beach surrounded by magnificent mountains.  To me there is no place more romantic than Deep Cove and it has been a destination of quite a few memorable dates.Quarry Rock View

The one I love the most is a combination of a hike and a dining experience. Not a high heel type of affair, but if you ware looking for some quality time together and want to impress your date with breath-taking views and a dinner at a romantic, cozy bistro, here’s an idea.

Head out to North Vancouver into the Deep Cove village, along Panorama Drive. Look for the sign on the left side of the street and walk up the edge of the driveway towards the wooden steps…you are looking for an entry into the Quarry Rock hiking trail.  It’s graded as Easy hike by Vancouver Trails, but there is plenty of steep hills and it takes about 50 minutes one way.  So wear comfortable shoes, bring some water and maybe a few snacks for when you reach the top.  The trail is well maintained, taking you through the mountain forest over the small bridges, waterfalls, creeks and valleys.  After a beautiful hike through the forest, you will see an opening in the trees – you’ve reached Quarry Rock look out with an unforgettable view of Salmon Arm below, Deep Cove and surrounding mountains.  Take in the the scenic view: tiny yachts and kayaks gliding on the water below, sun reflecting in the ocean water. It is an amazing experience – sharing the view like that and a feeling of being on top of the world together.Arms Reach Bistro Whether it’s just a beautiful date or a perfect spot to pop the question – the location and an experience are not to be missed.

After a while it’s time to head back.  Somehow the walk back always seems faster, maybe because one of the hidden gem restaurants, Arms Reach Bistro is waiting at the end of the hike.  Reserve the table and ask for the window seat You will be seated by a welcoming hostess at a table with one of the best views of Deep cove.  Lunch and dinner menu have a mix of favorite staples and seasonal dishes.  Mussels are amazing if you are in for a light meal, so are soups.  Seafood pasta is chock full of shrimp, lobster mean and is unbelievable value.  Arms Reach Bistro has got it right – gorgeous view, cozy patio, unique atmosphere inside, professional and friendly staff, mouth watering dishes, interesting cocktails.  It’s the type of cozy and romantic restaurant where I want to stay for hours, sipping wine, looking out, enjoying closeness and sampling one excellent dish after another.  And whatever you order, leave the space for desert.  Creme brûlée flavors change seasonally and the chocolate flourless cake is to die for.