RECONNECT & REFRESH – ENERGY
August 11, 2020
Credits: Summerset Festival
Faster than a speeding toddler full of ice cream, summertime has crept up on us. Pandemic or not, we’re currently in the midst of glorious BC weather and plentiful opportunities to explore this beautiful part of the world.
While some of us may typically be gazing across the borders for adventures and exploration, we’re here to show you that there are wonders to be discovered right here in the Fraser Valley that will get you moving, satisfying your thirst for adventure and create memories worth sharing whether you’re an Instagram guru or a good old fashioned photo book collector.
Cycling
Credits: @tlbvelo on Instagram
One of the things that many of us have been yearning for is the feeling of wind whipping in our hair as we explore roads, trails and fresh new sights & sounds atop our bicycles. Langley has become somewhat of a hub for cycling in the Fraser Valley (if you’ll pardon the pun) because starting your ride here means that you have easy access nearby trails, to roads that are limited only by your imagination, and all the fabulous local artisanal coffee and beer to fuel your ride or quench your thirst.
There are at least 186 routes in, through and around Langley. Here are just a few of the most popular rides:
The Tynehead and Walnut Grove Loop
Scenic route through a variety of landscapes. A few big hills but mostly bike paths with very little traffic.
Total route distance: 35kms
If you’re looking for a bit of wine with your weekend ride, then you’ll want to check this one out. It starts you off at Campbell Valley Regional Park, then leads you temptingly close to the tasting rooms at Vista D’Oro and Blackwood Lane wineries (book a reservation ahead of time). You’ll end up in Aldergrove Regional Park where you can loop around and head back for round 2.
Total route distance: 40kms (or 20kms one way).
For the more ambitious riders, this one takes your right to the the border, through some beautiful farmlands and back home to Langley.
Total route distance: 41kms
Road Rally
Nothing says wide open spaces like driving through some of Langley’s scenic back roads. You can find a suggested route here that will take you to green spaces with some other great local stops added along the way. Stop in for a bite to eat or grab something to go from one of our restaurants and cafes. Browse unique, local shopping areas and don’t forget to pick up some libations to enjoy later at home!
Exploring by foot allows time to take in the scenery and avoid the perils of helmet-hair. There are dozens of routes and beautiful spots to take in a bit of nature all throughout Campbell Valley Regional Park, a locals’ favourite for a walk amongst the trees.
Peace and tranquility can be found just a few hundred metres away from the heart of Langley in Portage Park. Take in the fresh air, have the kids run off some steam, and appreciate a moment at the duck pond, all within this quaint bit of conveniently located nature.
Golfing
Credits: @brothers.on.tour on Instagram
Mark Twain famously quipped: “Golf is a good walk wasted”. If you’re the type who sees that as a challenge, then Langley got plenty of opportunities for you. We’re fortunate to have a variety of golf options to choose from, any of which are a fantastic excuse to get outside and moving.
To book your tee time, check out any (or all) of these courses:
Langley Golf and Banquet Centre
Live Music
One of the great tragedies of this time is the festivals, shows and other opportunities to come together that we’ve all been deprived of. This year, our homegrown Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival is looking to offer a solution to that – they’re bringing their unique energy with a virtual music festival that’s the first of its kind.
Over two days on September 4th and 5th, the popular festival is going to be live streaming world class Jazz, Blues and Latin artists, creating a festival experience through interactive games, shows, and even a Moment of Joy that will get you up on your feet.
Right now, they’re encouraging people to start planning their own Backyard Festivals where you invite a few socially distanced friends over and host this year’s jazz festival right there in your own backyard, wherever that happens to be.
They are offering a (very) limited number of tickets for guests to join them at the live event where you’ll experience the shows up close and (safely) personal.
For more information on how to stream the festival, how to get tickets to the feature shows, and how to attend in person, check out Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival.
If you need some live music to tide you over till September, Summerset Music Festival has created Summerset Sundays. This is an opportunity to see a different artist perform on the patio of Trading Post Eatery in Fort Langley every Sunday night in a socially distant friendly format. Check out Summerset for tickets and other information. All proceeds from Summerset Sundays concert series will go towards the Red Door Events Musician Assistance Fund.
This year, we may be socially distanced, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t bring the energy. Langley is the ideal place you can ride, run, swing and dance. All of that activity is sure to work up an appetite, and you know that we’ve got your taste buds covered. Check back next week as we’ll be tempting your senses with the kitchens, wineries, breweries and bakeries that all have tempting treats ready to cap off a day full of outdoor activity.
