Are you looking for a fun and affordable getaway for your family this winter? Perhaps just a weekend escape from the holiday hustle and bustle?
Harrison Hot Springs Resort has got you covered!
Affordable off-season rates and packages? Check. Family-friendly amenities? Check. Close to home for Valley moms? Check. Festive fun and photo ops galore? Heck, yes!
Throughout the calendar year, this little slice of West Coast paradise in B.C. offers a unique experience for every season, but Christmas may just be my new
ALSO READ: 8 REASONS TO VISIT HARRISON HOT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA DURING SPRING BREAK
With our schedules about to get jam-packed with school concerts, festive parties, and family obligations, etc., we headed East for a girls’ getaway with my mom.
From Langley, the trek was around an hour and 15 minutes.
After checking in to our spacious waterfront room with a picturesque view of Harrison Lake, we bundled up nice and toasty in preparation of seeing Lights by the Lake.
We then headed to Harrison Village to grab a hot chocolate at a nearby cafe and wait for the sun to set and the waterfront to come to life with dazzling Christmas lights and displays. This free attraction runs until Jan. 12, 2020.
The light display is a must-see this holiday season, and you don’t have to be a guest at Harrison Resort to enjoy it. Lights go on at dusk and stay on until 11 p.m.
The Plaza is also decked out with magnificent weeping Christmas trees, lights and decorations to get you in the Christmas mood, but that’s not all. During your visit, you must also experience the new Outdoor Ice Rink and Christmas Tree Trail.
New Outdoor Ice Rink – Lights by the Lake includes a new outdoor synthetic ice rink. Bring your skates or rent some from the concession and enjoy our outdoor rink by the lake. Open daily, access to the rink is free, but there is a small charge for skate rentals.
Christmas Tree Trail – To enhance your Holiday experience, pick up a Christmas Tree Trail guide to see all the Christmas Tree displays in Harrison. Some real beauties can be found throughout Harrison Hot Springs Resort.
After all that walking and photo-snapping, we had all worked up quite the appetite. It was time for dinner at Harrison Hot Springs Resort’s family restaurant, Lakeside, which serves breakfast and dinner daily.
With an ethereal view of the waterfront that reflected thousands of twinkling Christmas lights below, it was the perfect spot to recharge after our day of play and exploration.
There are some great selections for little ones on the kids’ menu and a very tasty steak dinner I highly recommend ordering if you’re as hungry as we were.
Of course, no visit to Harrison Hot Springs resort is complete without a dip in the outdoor hot mineral pools– or if your family is like mine, it’s a two-hour float session. It was chilly coming out in our robes and sandals. Still, it felt so good to immerse ourselves in the irresistible natural essence of Harrison Hot Spring just as the sky started to freckle with stars.
Originally used by the Coast Salish for their medicinal properties and rejuvenating effects, the hot springs pools have been attracting visitors to Harrison Hot Springs for years. Guests have included famous guests such as Clark Gable, John Wayne, Michael Bublé, Robin Williams, Liam Neeson, and as of a couple of weeks ago — Valley Mom! (*said tongue in cheek*).
There are five natural hot spring pools to choose from, including one for families and an adults-only side. Honestly, I’ve experienced both, but prefer the family side myself. My girls played in the water while my mom and I met families from all over the world.
“You’re so fortunate to have all of this so close to home,” said an elderly man from across the border. He was celebrating a golden wedding anniversary with his wife.
It was getting late, but we weren’t quite ready to call it a night. After drying off and getting into our PJs, we ordered a movie and some room service treats — a heaping plate of cheesy nachos and iced cold Cokes!
“Mom, this was so awesome, can we come back again soon?” asked Zoe, all snug in bed next to her big sis.
While we won’t be able to get away again before Christmas, there are some pretty enticing off-season deals for families right now at the resort.
Maybe if I’m a good little Valley Mom, Santa will put a gift certificate in my stocking?
Hint, hint Jason.
Harrison Hot Springs Resort
Harrison Hot Springs Resort is located at 100 Esplanade Avenue in Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia. For more information, call (604) 796-2244 or visit www.harrisonresort.com.
Disclaimer: This experience was courtesy of Harrison Hot Springs Resort.
