The right amalgam of mountainous ranges, breath-taking views, incredible ski destinations, great lakes, gorgeous ski lodges, and scenic winter beauty makes Canada one of the most celebrated countries in the world. While a rich blend of French-English culture is enough to appeal to people from different parts of the world to move to the country, the immensely beautiful countryside takes one and all on a thrilling outdoor adventure. In this piece, we are talking about some of Canada’s best places to live in Canada.
Think of Canada, and the images of beautiful landscapes, vast coastal shorelines, wild terrain and plenty of freshwater lakes will start conjuring up in your mind, right? The second-largest country in the world, Canada, is where people have a lifestyle more connected to nature; it is where you can turn your dream of living in the lap of the outdoors into reality. With endless beautiful outdoor spaces, the country leaves you spoilt for choice when finding a perfect location with ample natural beauty. Be it the West Coast that lures you, the Maritimes you love, or everything in between that appeals to your senses, Canada has a place for everyone from far and wide.
Besides, the country astonishes travellers as well as Canadians with its wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, running, golfing, swimming and more. In addition to this, various studies suggest that there are numerous benefits of living in a location surrounded by nature. So before proceeding with our discussion on the best places to live in Canada, let’s learn about these benefits:
Living amidst greens in some of Canada’s best cities helps in the following ways –
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- Improves short-term memory
- Relieves stress
- Reduces the chance of poor vision
- Decreases inflammation
- Restores mental energy
- Enhances your thinking power
- Increases anti-cancer proteins
- Enhances focus and concentration
- Improves immune system
- Decreases the risk of early death
Such benefits encourage families to consider embracing living outdoors and adding years to their lives. Here, we are discussing Canada’s best cities for the outdoors. So, if you are planning to move to the country and start a new life journey, learn where you can buy or rent your dream home amidst nature’s delight.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver has always been renowned as a true paradise for outdoor lovers. One of the densest cities in Canada, it enjoys a filming location in the lap of mountains along with a flourishing art, theatre and music scene. One of the best cities for the outdoors, this city thrills you with adventurous activities throughout the year. You can enjoy incredible sailing in the morning and breath-taking skiing in the afternoon. Less adventurous people can spend mornings and evenings jogging or walking in Stanley Park. Besides, there are numerous golf courses everywhere that are ideal for beginners as well as champions. Mount Seymour, Grouse Mountain and Cypress Mountain are some of the best winter options for skiing and snowboarding, just an hour away from the city. You can discover some of the best slopes in the world in Whistler Blackcomb, a 115-km drive from Vancouver. Since the city serves you with several months of winter, there are plenty of adventures for the season. If we talk about summer, Vancouver doesn’t stop luring you. With more than 30 kilometres of beaches, the city offers ample fun. Mountain biking, ziplining and hiking are other adventures this beautiful place provides across its abundance of trails.
Victoria, British Columbia
Sitting on gorgeous Vancouver Island, Victoria is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque cities in Canada, with dramatic mountain and ocean vistas. Apart from the beautiful greenery, Victoria appeals with a stunning harbour, a rich British ancestry and splendid architecture, drawing the attention of all visitors and residents. There are countless opportunities for outdoor activities in the city, ranging from cycling, hiking and camping to ziplining and more. It was named after Queen Victoria, the city that lures people with its old-world charm and British feel. It is also called “The Garden City” due to its wonderful collection of gardens, including the famous Butchart Gardens, a 25-minute drive from downtown Victoria. Divers will make countless memories in the city since it has been designated one of the best cold-water diving destinations. There is no end to thrill in the town; you can also explore an array of golf clubs, tennis courts, marinas, a horse racing track, a car racing track and more. Besides, the great educational standards and facilities make it an ideal location to live for families, and amazing adventurous activities make it one of the best outdoor places.
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is one of Canada’s cleanest, wealthiest and most liveable cities, lying 1,048 meters above sea level. Beautifully tucked in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the city makes an ideal destination for those who love the outdoors. Several beautiful routes scattered across 20,000 acres make this city a runner’s paradise, where 115 marathons occur annually. Canada Olympic Park in Calgary draws a lot of attention from adventure enthusiasts where one can delight themselves in incredible skiing, snowboarding, bobsledding and public skating opportunities. Mountain biking and ziplining are activities to enjoy during summer. Banff offers wonderful downhill skiing opportunities just an hour’s drive from Calgary. If you can go a little far, a five-hour drive away is Jasper, renowned for amazing skiing opportunities. Both these places have national parks where you can enjoy camping and hiking. Apart from this, if you are living in the city, you will enjoy magnificent sightseeing at breath-taking glaciers and ice fields.
Toronto, Ontario
One of the most liveable cities in the world and the largest in Canada, Toronto offers a fine mix of an urban and relaxing lifestyle. With an endless collection of parks, golf courses, jogging trails and green spaces, the city conquers hearts from different parts of the world. Being one of the best places to live in Canada, Toronto offers gorgeous public green spaces. Rouge Park and Don Valley Brick Works Park are the most stunning green oases in the city, renowned all over the country. Toronto enjoys proximity to several breath-taking secluded islands that you can access via water taxi or ferry. During winter, you can enjoy a beautiful blanket of snow and witness many ice skating rinks and snowboarders. The summers are hot and sunny in the city and treat you with plentiful activities, including outdoor concerts, beach trips and festivals. Not just the natural wonders but the city is also considered one of the most liveable places based on other factors, including culture, healthcare, education and environment. There are amazing hiking and rock climbing opportunities for residents as well as tourists in the area of Niagara Escarpment. Besides, you can enjoy water skiing and various other water sports in the Greater Toronto Area and some nearby leisure locations such as Kawarthas and Muskoka.
Montreal, Quebec
Counted among the happiest locations to live in the world, Montreal is a beautiful city that appeals to its character and atmosphere. It is the second-largest city in Canada, where Montrealers love diving in all kinds of weather. The vibe in Montreal is a rich blend of true urban and lush countryside, and one can enjoy several surprising and memorable outdoor adventures. Surfboarding on the St. Lawrence River is one amazing experience you cannot miss out on! While eco-friendly gardening ensures a healthy lifestyle in the city, a non-profit organisation named Soverdi has taken a green-based initiative of planting millions of trees, making the city one of the most peaceful places to reside in. Many families are here chilling on the beach at the Montreal Clock Tower and spending leisure time at a spa at Bota Bota. With a huge French influence, Montreal is renowned as a little European slice of Canada with some magic in the air in all seasons – spring, summer, fall and winter. Apart from this, Montreal is also popular for hosting the Montreal Outdoor and Travel Festival, which draws several adventure lovers from far and wide.
Whistler, British Columbia
Outdoor enthusiasts are naturally drawn to Whistler for its spectacular alpine setting and the wealth of activities it offers. Whistler’s claim to fame as the home of one of North America’s largest ski resorts, Whistler Blackcomb, is just the beginning. The area’s deep snow, extensive trails, and challenging terrain attract skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts from around the globe. Beyond the thrill of winter sports, the town is steeped in the captivating cultural heritage of the Coast Salish First Nations people, adding a layer of rich historical significance to the natural beauty. Exploring this land, one follows ancient nomadic paths, trade routes, and the echoes of a vibrant, living history beautifully encapsulated at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. Whistler transcends being just a scenic locale; it is a place where culture intertwines with outdoor adventure, where every trail tells a story, and where the spirit of the land resonates with every visitor’s heart, making it a profoundly beloved destination for those who cherish the outdoors.
Banff, Alberta
Someone passionate about the great outdoors would find Banff an irresistible destination. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies within Banff National Park, this resort town is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers. The majestic peaks of Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade offer a stunning backdrop to a city where wildlife roams free, and the landscape is vast and untamed. Imagine walking down Banff Avenue, surrounded by the grandeur of château-style hotels and the charm of mountain boutiques, then stepping into the wild where elk and grizzly bears are your neighbours. This unique interplay of civilisation and wilderness is underpinned by a harmonious blend of governance, reflecting the significance of Banff as a treasure of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The UNESCO World Heritage designation underscores its global importance, preserving the cultural tapestry and biodiversity that make Banff not just a place to visit but a place to connect deeply with the earth’s magnificence.
Jasper, Alberta
Jasper beckons outdoor enthusiasts with limitless splendour, encapsulated by the sweeping vistas atop Whistlers Mountain. Nestled within the Canadian Rockies in Jasper National Park, this quaint alpine town harmoniously blends the simplicity of its railway heritage with an array of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Visitors are greeted with UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of mirror-like glacial lakes, evergreen forests, and winding rivers. Experiences range from the expansive views on the Jasper SkyTram to the cultural narratives housed in the Jasper Yellowhead Museum, creating a rich tapestry of adventure and history. Adventure-seekers can indulge in star-filled backcountry sojourns, floral-carpeted valley hikes, and exhilarating mountain bike descents. At the same time, those yearning for peace can enjoy meandering scenic drives, observing wildlife, or picnicking beneath towering peaks. With each season, Jasper transforms—its winter cloak beckoning with quiet snowshoe trails and frosty fat bike paths, while summer offers a verdant playground under the watchful eye of the Milky Way. In Jasper, the wild is not merely an escape but a vivid embrace, offering a sanctuary where the spirit of nature profoundly touches the soul.
The Laurentians, Quebec
Laurentides, is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Whether blanketed in winter’s pristine snow or basking in summer’s lush greenery, the region is a year-round haven for those who revel in nature and festivities. Here, the landscape serves as more than just a backdrop; it’s an active participant in diverse festivals celebrating music, dance, and theatre, enriching visitors’ experiences with the region’s creative pulse. You can also find thrilling sporting events across numerous disciplines, set amidst rolling hills and clear lakes. The local flavours and gourmet experiences are aplenty. Families can find numerous activities designed to entertain and engage all ages.
Tofino, British Columbia
Tofino, British Columbia, is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts, an idyllic escape where the mighty Pacific Ocean meets lush rainforests and expansive sandy beaches. This small district on Vancouver Island is a sanctuary within the Clayoquot Sound, celebrated for its rugged and untouched landscapes. It’s a place where surfers can catch waves year-round at beaches like Cox Bay and Chesterman Beach and where Long Beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve offers a panoramic vista of the ocean’s endless horizons. Tofino is more than just a town; it’s an experience steeped in the deep cultural heritage of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, surrounded by the UNESCO-recognized biodiversity of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Region. This locale invites you to rise with the sun and immerse yourself in its natural splendours, from the tranquil inlets to the ancient, mist-shrouded forests that speak to the soul. Renowned for its rich culinary scene and vibrant coastal arts, Tofino is where connections run deep between the land, the sea, the wildlife, and the people.
Fernie, British Columbia
Fernie, Elk Valley, is another great pick for those who love the outdoors. This city boasts a rich history closely intertwined with the rugged terrain surrounding it. Founded on the back of the coal industry by prospector William Fernie in the late 19th century, today’s Fernie has shifted its gaze from the minerals beneath the earth to the sweeping slopes above. With over 5,000 residents and a significant seasonal population boost during the winter months, Fernie transforms into a bustling hub for outdoor activities, primarily driven by the exhilarating mountain slopes that beckon skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. Fernie’s mountains provide year-round adventures, from hiking and mountain biking trails that offer breathtaking vistas to fishing in the serene Elk River. The city’s heritage as a coal town adds a unique historical layer to the outdoor experience, with mines that once powered a nation now serving as landmarks and reminders of the city’s enduring spirit.
Kamloops, British Columbia
Kamloops, British Columbia, presents a blend of cultural richness and untamed natural beauty that outdoor enthusiasts find irresistible. The city’s name, “where the rivers meet,” speaks to its deep-rooted significance as a hub of trade and social convergence for the “real Shuswap” people. Its reputation as Canada’s Tournament Capital is not just about sports; it embodies a community spirit that thrives on inclusivity and growth in all forms of outdoor and cultural engagements. From the adrenaline of mountain biking to the serenity of a wine-tasting hike and high-performance athletic camps to vibrant art festivals, Kamloops is a community that invites everyone to experience and partake in its abundance of outdoor and cultural offerings.
Collingwood, Ontario
Collingwood, Ontario, offers a rich tapestry of recreational activities against the stunning backdrop of Georgian Bay and the Blue Mountains. As a four-season playground, it boasts the adrenaline-inducing slopes of Blue Mountain Ski Resort. It serves as a hub for downhill and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Beyond the winter allure, its location on the shores of Nottawasaga Bay opens up a world of water sports and scenic beauty. The town itself is steeped in a shipbuilding legacy and proud of its Beaux-Arts architecture, adding a touch of grandeur to its vibrant streets. With over thirty restaurants, sixty boutique shops, spas, and live music venues, downtown Collingwood has a rich cultural background, making it more than just a day’s outing for outdoor pursuits. Whether sailing on the bay, hiking along the trails, indulging in après-ski activities, or enjoying the local arts and music, Collingwood offers an eclectic mix that promises to enchant those who cherish an active lifestyle and cultural richness in equal measure.
Summing it up
Since Canada is renowned for its most liveable atmosphere and high quality of life, there is no denying that it is home to some of the best green cities in the world that represent peaceful living. A vast collection of coastal shorelines, stunning landscapes, beautiful parks, and freshwater lakes makes it a tourist destination and an ideal place to live with family. If you plan to move to the city and start a new life with your family, you have countless options for pretty locations. As we have discussed above some of the best places to live in Canada, we hope it will be easier for you to choose a city per your preferences and requirements. Besides, you will find several other places in the country that ensure ideal outdoor living. We recommend you do thorough research and decide what suits you the best.
