Exploring the Mighty Peace Region: A Family Trip to the Peace River Area

Heading Home

Its been a few weeks now since I took my family back to my old stomping grounds and I have to say this trip created memories that will last a lifetime for both me, my wife and my three kiddos. I always love heading back to the beautiful Peace River region, ad on this particular trip nature’s beauty met family fun, and the charm of small-town Alberta unfolded in front of our eyes. From stunning sunrises and cozy accommodations to outdoor adventures and local flavours, every moment of this trip was filled with joy, exploration, and a touch of relaxation. Here’s an in-depth look at our trip, including the places we visited, the activities we enjoyed, and the experiences that made this journey one to remember.

A Warm Welcome at the Wild Rose Guest House

Our adventure began at the Wild Rose Guest House, nestled in the heart of the Peace River area. After a scenic drive through rolling hills and rural landscapes, we arrived at this charming, rustic yet modern getaway. The Wild Rose Guest House offers a unique blend of comfort and character, providing the perfect home base for families like ours who are looking to experience the beauty of the region. The building itself exudes warmth, with its welcoming ambiance and cozy interiors, making it feel like a home away from home.

Our family was immediately taken by the peacefulness of the surroundings, with the guest house providing panoramic views of the mighty Peace River Valley that stretches on for miles. Whether you’re waking up to a beautiful sunrise or winding down after a busy day of exploration, the Wild Rose Guest House offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The property also offers plenty of room for kids to run around and explore, making it an excellent choice for families. After settling in, we took a moment to unwind and appreciate the charm of the guest house before heading out to explore the local area.

Barrel Liquor: A Taste of Canadian Wine

One of the true highlights of our trip was our visit to Barrel Liquor, a charming and welcoming local establishment that truly showcases the rich flavors of Canadian wine and spirits. Tucked in a cozy corner of the Peace River area, this hidden gem offers an exceptional tasting experience that stands out in the local landscape.

As we entered Barrel Liquor, we were immediately greeted by the friendly staff who made us feel at home. The atmosphere inside was warm and intimate, creating a perfect environment for exploring the world of Canadian wines. The rustic decor, coupled with the friendly chatter of fellow wine enthusiasts, added to the welcoming vibe of the space. The staff guided us through a variety of wine options, patiently explaining the unique characteristics of each bottle ,whether you're a wine connoisseur seeking to discover new and exciting flavors or someone who simply enjoys a good drink, Barrel Liquor has something to offer.

The intimate nature of Barrel Liquor allowed us to ask questions and engage with the staff, who were eager to share their knowledge and passion for the craft. It wasn’t just a stop to pick up a bottle; it was a journey into the world of Canadian wine, where we got to appreciate the artistry behind each label.

After spending the time, we left with a couple of bottles in hand, excited to share our newfound discoveries with friends and family back home. Barrel Liquor is a true testament to the quality and richness of Canadian wine, and it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the Canada’s diverse wine market.

A Delicious Meal at What The Chuck

No trip is complete without indulging in some local cuisine, and for us, that meant dining at What The Chuck, a popular eatery in the Peace River area known for its creative menu and laid-back vibe. After spending the day exploring, we were ready to relax and enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming setting.

What The Chuck is known for its innovative twist on comfort food, offering everything from burgers and sandwiches to shareable plates and mouth-watering appetizers. The restaurant’s contemporary design is paired with a warm and casual atmosphere that made it easy to kick back and enjoy our meal. We were impressed by the wide selection of dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re craving something hearty or light, there’s something on the menu for everyone.

We opted for a few different dishes to share, and each one was bursting with flavor. From juicy, perfectly cooked burgers to savory sides, everything we tried was top-notch. The friendly staff ensured that our experience was seamless, providing excellent service and making us feel right at home. After our meal, we couldn’t resist trying one of their decadent desserts, which was the perfect sweet ending to our dining experience.

A Beautiful Morning: Sunrise and Hot Tub Relaxation

The next morning greeted us with a spectacular sunrise that bathed the surrounding countryside in warm golden hues. Waking up early and taking in the view from the comfort of our guest house was a peaceful way to start the day. We couldn’t resist stepping outside to enjoy the crisp morning air and bask in the tranquility of the moment.

After our sunrise experience, we decided to enjoy some relaxation time in the hot tub. The Wild Rose Guest House features a hot tub that overlooks the beautiful Peace River Valley, providing the perfect setting for a slow and rejuvenating morning. Soaking in the warm water while watching the mist rise from the valley below was an incredibly peaceful experience that allowed us to unwind and connect with nature before heading out for the day’s adventures.

Northern Dough: Coffee and Treats to Start the Day

After a relaxing morning in the hot tub, we made our way to Northern Dough for some much-needed coffee and fresh treats. Northern Dough is a delightful local bakery and café that serves up delicious coffee, pastries, and baked goods. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to kick off the day.

We ordered a selection of fresh-baked pastries, including muffins, croissants, and cookies, which paired perfectly with the amazing coffee. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods filled the air as we chatted and enjoyed our breakfast. Northern Dough has earned a reputation for its high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, and it was easy to see why. Each bite was bursting with flavour, and the friendly service made the experience even more enjoyable. You could really tell that this place was built on passion. I honestly think I will be making trips in the future just for Northern Dough. It was the perfect way to fuel up before continuing our exploration of the Peace River region.

Outdoor Skating at Lac Cardinal

After our delicious breakfast, we headed out to Lac Cardinal Recreational area a beautiful and serene lake that offers a perfect spot for outdoor activities. During the winter months, the lake transforms into a popular location for outdoor skating, and it didn’t take long for us to fall in love with the area. We laced up our skates and hit the ice, enjoying the crisp air and the natural beauty surrounding us.

Skating at Lac Cardinal was a truly magical experience. As we glided across the ice, we couldn’t help but appreciate the peacefulness of the surroundings and the simplicity of the activity. It was a great way for the whole family to get some exercise, have fun, and connect with nature. After skating, we took a leisurely family walk on the trails around the lake where we found the opportunity to play on the newly built Lac Cardinal Recreational Playground Area. The kids can never get enough of playgrounds so we took the time to slow down and let the kids be kids, because what's better than a little unstructured play on a really cool playground.

In addition to being a great place for a quiet skate, Lac Cardinal is also famous for hosting the Alberta Pond Hockey Championship. Every winter, the lake becomes the backdrop for this exciting event, drawing teams from all over the province. It’s a unique celebration of the sport, where the competition takes place on natural ice rinks set up on the lake itself. The atmosphere is electric, with players and spectators alike enjoying the thrill of pond hockey in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Curling Lessons at the Grimshaw Curling Club

One of the unexpected highlights of our trip was the opportunity to try curling at the Grimshaw Curling Club. Grimshaw’s Curling Club has been around since 1937 and always sets the standard in the area for talent and competition. I felt grateful to hang out and learn the ropes from Dave. Dave was a passionate curler and you could feel the pride as he explained the game to the girls. He also spoke to the recent resurgence in popularity of the sport ad how the Club was working to improve the rink, a building that I myself curled in when I was young. incredibly welcoming, providing us with everything we needed to get started. They explained the rules and techniques of curling, and then we hit the ice for our first lessons. The experience was both fun and challenging, as curling requires a unique combination of skill, strategy, and teamwork. Hazel, in particular, loved the sport and quickly became a pro at sliding the stones down the ice. It was a great bonding activity for our family, and it left us with a newfound appreciation for the sport of curling. Hazel quickly fell in love ad we’re thinking that next year we will try to get her signed up to play here at home!

A Family Dinner at Mr. Mike’s in Peace River

To wrap up our trip, we ended our weekend with a family dinner at Mr. Mike’s, a popular restaurant chain in the Peace River area known for its fun atmosphere and delicious food. The restaurant offers a variety of menu items, from steak and seafood to burgers and pasta, making it a great choice for families with diverse tastes.

We had a fantastic time at Mr. Mike’s, enjoying a delicious meal while playing fun games and enjoying each other’s company. The kids especially loved the interactive games available at the restaurant, which added an extra layer of entertainment to the dining experience. The food was outstanding, with generous portions and flavors that satisfied everyone’s appetite. It was the perfect way to end our trip, leaving us with full stomachs and happy memories.

Conclusion: A Trip to Remember

Our weekend in the Peace River area was a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and family bonding. From the welcoming atmosphere of the Wild Rode Guest House to the fun activities we enjoyed, each stop along the way added something special to our trip. Whether we were tasting local wine at Barrel Liquor, skating at Lac Cardinal, or learning the art of curling, every moment was a chance to connect with each other and with the stunning natural beauty of the region.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway that offers both relaxation and adventure, the Peace River area should definitely be on your list. With its welcoming community, wide range of activities, and charming accommodations, it’s a destination that has something for everyone. We left the region with hearts full of memories, and we can’t wait to return for more adventures in the future.