Choosing the perfect location for your law firm's retreat in British Columbia

Looking for a Canadian law firm retreat location? Selecting a Canadian destination for your law firm’s retreat is no simple task, especially in a place as diverse and scenic as British Columbia. Let’s look at some gorgeous retreat locations in BC for your firm’s next destination.

The right location fosters productivity, team cohesion, and relaxation, while also providing engaging extracurricular activities and top-tier accommodation.

Here are five recommendations that can accommodate firms ranging from 20 to 900 members, offering accessibility, a variety of leisure activities, and a stunning backdrop for your retreat.

1. Vancouver

Vancouver remains one of the most vibrant and picturesque cities in the world, consistently ranking among the top destinations for corporate retreats and conferences. With easy access to locations such as Whistler, Victoria, and Vancouver Island, an extended retreat or post-retreat vacation is simple to plan.

Outdoor activities abound in Vancouver year-round. A great way to get your team acquainted with the city is by taking the Grouse Mountain Skyride, which offers breathtaking views of the skyline and surrounding nature. The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Treetop Adventure also provide a unique team-building experience amid towering Douglas fir trees.

The award-winning Vancouver Aquarium is where some of the city’s most memorable corporate events are held. You'll enjoy a buffet-style breakfast while viewing more than 7,000 species of sea life. The galleries are available for meetings, including a boardroom that backs on to the beluga-whale tank. Cool.

For a different water perspective, consider a private yacht charter or a scenic harbour cruise to create extra special memories of the beautiful scenery of Vancouver and the surrounding area. Top it off with a spectacular sunset.

Vancouver is a food city. Dining options in Vancouver cater to all tastes, with 10 Michelin-starred restaurants and so many others worthy of considering, including many with stunning views and private rooms.

Vancouver has several world-class hotels including the Fairmont Pacific Rim, JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, and the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, all of which offer premium meeting spaces. The Vancouver Convention Centre remains a premier venue for larger firms.

Most conference facilities -- including the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre, or the Art Gallery Rotunda -- are within walking distance from downtown hotels.

2. Whistler

The excitement will build as you take in the scenery traveling up the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler Mountain (about 1.5 hours). Charter a comfortable coach, hire a tour guide and use some travel time to set the stage for an extraordinary retreat. For the best experience, plan to travel during daylight hours to fully appreciate the scenery. Novices on this winding highway should avoid driving it themselves at night or during wintry conditions.

Whether you arrive amid snow or sun, there’s plenty to do with your spare time. Mountain biking, golfing (choose from one of four championship courses), rafting, canoeing, bungee jumping, hiking, zipping, heli-touring, and of course, skiing (November to April) to name a few. For thrill-seekers, the Whistler Zipline Tour and Peak 2 Peak Gondola provide unforgettable views and team bonding experiences.

To make Whistler even more appealing, consider the many festivals and events, restaurants and the variety of hotels and resorts.

The Four Seasons Resort Whistler is a special property. The signature brand of Four Seasons luxury is ever-present, and its Whistler property has a touch of alpine charm. This resort offers unique semi-private dining options – including one on manicured grass in its beautiful courtyard during the warm weather. Gather around the outdoor fire pit for aperitifs, after dinner cocktails or even s’mores. Its spa, fitness centre, slope-side ski concierge and gorgeous guest rooms will keep everyone happy. Meeting space is designed for up to 350 people. So, a firm of 250-350 people will take over the resort!

The award-winning Fairmont Chateau Whistler is at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, and accommodates small and large firms beautifully. Meeting and guest rooms are lovely, and the health club and fitness centre will inspire you to sweat. The Chateau Whistler offers preferred tee times on its golf course and discounted rates for guests.

The Westin Resort & Spa is also warm and inviting, and another large award-totting resort. Located at the foot of Whistler Mountain, the Westin can accommodate a whopping 900 people in its largest ballroom. Unique among the large resorts, all the Westin rooms have kitchens. Nice for a partner/spouse or kids.

Smaller boutique hotels offer an intimate setting without compromising comfort. Nestled in the heart of the charming Whistler village, the Sundial Boutique Hotel and Pan Pacific Lodge are both a snowball throw from the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas. Meetings will need to be held elsewhere but, conveniently, the impressive Whistler Conference Centre is just a three-minute meander away.

Large firms should book early to get the whole firm accommodated in one location.

3. Victoria (Vancouver Island)

Imagine hanging baskets, horse-drawn carriages, illuminated Parliament buildings and breath-taking gardens. Easily accessible by ferry or plane, the capital city of British Columbia enjoys a mild climate and abundant sunshine. The seaplane trip could be among one of the most beautiful 30 minutes you’ll ever spend in flight.

The province’s capital gets only half the usual rain of the Pacific Northwest, so outdoor activities are easy to plan. With 2,196 hours of sunshine a year, this city is overcome with flowers in the spring and summer. Tourism Victoria is brimming with unique corporate activities.

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel and Marine Resort is on the doorstep of a pristine wilderness reserve. The Hotel Grand Pacific and Fairmont Empress are among the city’s top hotels, offering a mix of classic elegance and modern comfort. The Hotel Grand Pacific’s meeting rooms are flooded with natural light and many have patios for truly refreshing breaks. With a fitness centre, spa, business-services centre and gracious hotel-wide hospitality your firm will be very productive and comfortable here.

Here you can enjoy a guided kayak star-gazing event that’s topped off with a crab feast.

Whale watching in nearby waters in a covered or open boat is a favorite activity and will leave you in undeniable awe.

For active firm members, Victoria is the "Cycling Capital of Canada" according to the Government of Canada. Pedal heads can rent bikes and enjoy scenic bike paths for easy sightseeing.

The Butchart Gardens is also worth considering, despite the 35-minute drive from Victoria. A National Historic Site of Canada, the stunning 55 acres property is 121 years old and still privately owned.

4. Tofino (Vancouver Island)

Way out on the farthest western point of Canada, you’ll find rugged shores, miles of sand and the bountiful outdoor wilderness. This is the home of crashing waves, and long, sandy beaches dotted with surfers, sightseers and sun worshippers. Year round, the seaside village of Tofino on Vancouver Island is a favorite among locals, and has become world-renowned for its ancient rainforests, dramatic winter storms and the natural sweep of beaches. Tofino’s breathtaking scenery also attracts artists from around the world.

It’s easy to get here by flying direct from Vancouver – keep your phone camera poised. On arrival, you’ll overlook the Pacific Ocean where the entire population of Pacific gray whales swims north each spring. Stunning.

A unique selection of oceanfront boutiques, outdoor adventure tours and recreational activities are plentiful on this spectacular peninsula. Popular activities in Tofino include whale- or bear-watching tours, a kayaking retreat to a remote location, a guided rainforest walk, first nation canoe trips, fishing and, for the fit, surfing lessons.

The popular award-winning Wickaninnish Inn is a few minutes from the picturesque township of Tofino. The guest and meeting rooms overlook the ocean and the quiet tranquility coupled with superb cuisine (fresh seafood, free range meats and organic produce) make for a productive but relaxing retreat. Small firms (up to 30 people) will find good meeting space here, but larger firms will need to book nearby conference facilities.

5. The Okanagan Valley (Central B.C.)

From lakeside to mountain peaks, the entire Okanagan region is a year-round paradise for nature lovers, adventurers and recreationalists. The uniquely varied landscape and moderate, sunny climate are natural ingredients for first-class golfing, water sports, hiking, climbing and, of course, skiing and snowboarding.

It’s also a serious wine country region. The Okanagan’s Fall Wine Festival is a premier event held annually in October, offering exclusive tastings and vineyard experiences.

Wine tour services will pick you up in their luxury vehicle at your hotel and guide you to a selection of the Okanagan's most exquisite wineries, including complimentary wine tastings, and a vineyard lunch.

The Okanagan Valley has several spectacular golf courses within a short drive from Kelowna. The region, with its diverse landscape and more sunshine per year than any other region in Canada, boasts a spectrum of excellent golf courses.

This region offers just as much in the winter months. Try dog sledding, skiing, backcountry touring, snowmobiling or snowshoeing.

Fly into Kelowna and a 20-minute car ride later, you’re at the Grand Okanagan Lakefront Resort. The Grand Okanagan Lakefront Resort, located in central Okanagan, can accommodate small to large law firms. This deluxe resort hotel, situated on 25 acres of parkland on the shores of Okanagan Lake, is within walking distance of downtown Kelowna. A variety of boutiques, restaurants and water activities are on-site with beaches close by. Kelowna is in the heart of golf, wine, orchard and lake country.

If you’re including business sessions, always book a room that has natural light and decent AV tech and support. If you need an external speaker, book early to secure your preferred individual and ensure there is plenty of planning time.

British Columbia offers a diverse range of retreat locations to suit a variety of needs. Whether your team prefers an urban escape in Vancouver, an adventure-packed stay in Whistler, the sunny climate of the Okanagan, or a tranquil retreat in Tofino, the options are many. Planning ahead ensures your firm secures the best accommodations and experiences for a seamless, memorable retreat.