Six reasons to travel to Squamish, B.C.

1. Action station

Whatever you fancy, the Squamish Adventure Centre is ground zero for accessing a staggering wealth of outdoor recreation. Windsurfing, kiteboarding, hiking, bird-watching, mountain biking, golfing, rock climbing, river rafting — the list goes on and on. And it's all just 40 minutes from downtown Vancouver. 38551 Loggers Lane.

2. Ultimate glamping

If the buzzing community feel at the Sunwolf doesn't get you, the food from hot local visiting chefs at the central café will win your heart. When the sun goes down, warm up by the campfire and be lulled to sleep in your wooden cabin by the sound of the river splashing. 70002 Squamish Valley Rd.

3. Foodie fix

If you're more interested in an adventure of the culinary kind, head to 38084 Cleveland Avenue. The steaming coffees served up at Zephyr Café are special enough to have attracted the attention of the New York Times. And the food is fresh, tasty and inspiringly healthy. On the flip side, just down the street, the new Campfire Grill is fired up and cooking mouth-watering low-and-slow barbecue, in a wood smoker. Delish!

4. Extreme shopping

It's not all about sportswear in this 'hood. Local labels with a conscience, like Lav & Kush, fill organic-lifestyle boutique Agnes Jean (38016 Cleveland Ave.). And uncover hidden gems (like Prada!) in racks of gently worn items at Random. 38065 Cleveland Ave.

5. Beauty and the beer

The Howe Sound Inn and Brewing Company is set in stunning surroundings where two rivers meet, at the base of the giant granite monolith known as Stawamus Chief. Nestle into the brew pub to enjoy a selection of microbrewed beers and a hearty menu. If you find yourself overindulging, the rooms upstairs are clean, comfy and half the price of their Whistler counterparts, just 30 minutes up the road. 37801 Cleveland Ave.

6. Sushi secret

If you eat at just one place in Squamish, it has to be here. Tucked away in a strip mall, Sushi Sen tantalizes taste buds and sends tongues wagging. Walls are adorned with kimonos as vibrant as the food. Locals say the Agedashi (deep-fried) Tofu is the best outside Japan, but don't forget mochi ice cream or the complimentary box of Pocky when you're done. 40382 Tantalus Way.