Day 17

After an early bed and an early start, we were on the road just after 7.00am. It was a rather windy road climbing and descending the mountains ranges as we drove towards Whistler. It would be an easy 3 to 4 hour drive today without stops.

At one stage we had to wait on the mountain road while road workers, hooked up in harnesses, cleared possible rock and rubble slide onto the road. They were drilling into the mountain side, removing rock to avoid avalanches in the coming months.

A little further down the road in the valley we passed where a river flowed into a lake. At this juncture it was blocked by a build-up of fallen logs. We stopped not only to take photos but thought this would be a likely beaver sighting point. Guess what…….. no beavers in sight. They did not get the memo we would be there ready with our cameras for a photo shoot.

Whistler is a typical ski village. Lots of multi storey accommodation buildings. However, as there are so many tall trees lining the streets, the buildings do not stand out. We found the day carpark and then headed to where there was a break in the trees. Incredibly we then walked into what was the 2010 Winter Olympics Village with the stage set up for all manner of entertainment.

We walked around the pretty pedestrian streets of the upper and lower villages. First it was time for a morning coffee. We went into a shop called Pure Bread. We decided it had to be good due to the queue winding its way out the door. We purchased our coffees and treats plus something to have with our evening cuppa. Overall, after our short stay, we were quite impressed with Whistler. We can imagine it as a night time party place for young people like ourselves! (Enjoy Emily). However, given our short stay, the wallet was not depleted too much!

After two hours and many photos later (mostly by Vince) we headed back to the car and on our way for the hour and half drive to Vancouver. We did pass some tall mountains that had snow/ice still on their peaks.

As we drove into West Vancouver, looking out on the bay and islands, Margaret commented that she could imagine how her parents would have enjoyed sailing in these picturesque waters.

Over the Lion's Gate Bridge and a drive through downtown Vancouver we arrived at our home for the next 2 nights (same place as our original stay). Once we arrived home we unpacked the car and put on a load of washing. It was a lovely warm day (it was the last day of an unseasonal heatwave of temps in the 30's) and so we were able to hang clothes out in the sun ( yay, no dryer required! J ).

We then headed to a shopping centre so Vince could have his phone checked at an apple store. Unfortunately, they said a non apple screen had been put onto the phone so they were unable to do anything. The phone still works but the touch screen can be contrary at time, just like a woman! (I will pay for this comment later! L )

We then topped up with petrol and moved onto the DFO near the airport. Margaret needed another pair of capri pants as one pair had somehow gone missing between the car and accommodation in Jasper. Then on to return the car and train home. End of day!