Some of us, if we are lucky, have had an astounding experience while travelling: you stumble on a magical place that only the locals know about. It's in a postcard setting with unique shops, restaurants and sights. There's a sense of serenity in the air and the people that you meet are friendly and welcoming.
On the north shore of Vancouver's Burrard Inlet, the historic seaside community of Dundarave in West Vancouver is such a place.
As the city of Vancouver grew in the late 19th century, the undeveloped sandy shorelines nearby became a popular destination for townspeople to set up summer camps. People made the crossing from Vancouver in canoes and rowboats until a regular ferry service to the new Dundarave Pier was initiated to serve the holiday makers.
The first settler, John Thomas, acquired the plot of land where Hollyburn Creek meets the sea. In 1873 he built a home - Hollyburn House - which still stands today at 1768 Argyle Avenue, and is the oldest continuously inhabited residence in the Lower Mainland.
Soon, other permanent residents staked their claim in the area and early West Vancouver began to take shape - yet Dundarave never really lost its 'holiday destination' feel.
Today, Dundarave retains its individual flavour and sense of community. The central flower-lined boulevard adds colour
