British Columbia is home to countless opportunities for outdoor adventures, and there’s no better way to experience them than by staying in the heart of the community. When you rent a Williams Lake vacation rental, you’ll have plenty of room to store your mountain bikes, fishing equipment or other gear, and let you experience the comforts of home while on the go. Here are some of the best places to look for a vacation rental around Williams Lake as you plan your trip.
1. Williams Lake
Named after the lake, this bustling town is the local population center. It is known for the Williams Lake Stampede, an annual rodeo that draws visitors from all over British Columbia. Adventure seekers can enjoy whitewater rafting down the Fraser River, while nature lovers can explore Scout Island, a local nature preserve. Williams Lake is also home to numerous theater groups, art galleries and other cultural events. The most famous is The Station House, an old rail station converted into a world-class gallery.
2. 150 Mile House
Located a mere 20-minute drive to the east of Williams Lake, 150 Mile House provides a quaint, rural setting while remaining close to modern amenities. This unincorporated community is dotted with ranches and open space, including Dewar Lake, a beautiful lake nestled in the heart of the community. Find a lakefront or riverfront vacation rental easily in 150 Mile House.
3. Horsefly
Situated on several waterways and known for its numerous waterfalls, the town of Horsefly is a fisherman’s dream. This small town is home to a cafe, pub, and general store, as well as antique and artisan stores. The Horsefly River is also one of the largest salmon spawning grounds in the province, creating plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. Horsefly also features numerous wheelchair-accessible trails.
4. 108 Mile Ranch
This small community traces its roots back to the Gold Rush days, and many of the homes and buildings retain a quaint, handmade look. The community association maintains miles of greenbelt parkland that give this area a natural beauty. Despite its rural feel, 108 Mile Ranch is home to a supermarket, cafe and other modern amenities.
5. Nimpo Lake
If you’re looking for a back-to-nature wilderness adventure, consider staying in Nimpo Lake. This small, remote community is about four hours from Williams Lake, but it acts as the gateway to a plethora of hiking, skiing, and rock climbing opportunities. Fishing and canoeing are also popular activities,and floatplanes offer aerial tours. There aren’t many shopping opportunities in Nimpo Lake, but it is home to a general store and several restaurants.
6. Quesnel
Enjoy a combination of rustic charm and modern amenities in Quesnel, located about an hour north of Williams Lake. This bustling little town boasts world class dining, with options ranging from old-fashioned cafes to exotic ethnic fare. A wide variety of shopping is also available, including upscale boutiques, First Nations artisans and more. During the summer months, you can stroll around the farmer’s market on Saturday mornings to pick up some delicious, locally grown food to cook in the kitchen of your vacation rental.
7. Likely
Nestled at the mouth of Quesnel Lake, Likely is filled with small town charm. This quiet community offers a couple of dining options as well as a general store, but the real draw is the outdoor activities. Canoeing and fishing are popular here, and there’s plenty of room for hiking and mountain biking. Likely is located approximately halfway between Quesnel and Williams Lake, so it can be a good base if you plan to explore numerous towns in the area.
8. Glendale
Located just to the northwest of the town of Williams Lake, this charming residential community has a small town feel but big city amenities. The homes are a mix of cute bungalows and charming ranch houses, giving you plenty of vacation rental options. In addition, easy access to two major highways lets you easily explore the area or head into Williams Lake for shopping and dining.
9. Fox Mountain
This quiet neighborhood is a mecca for mountain bikers thanks to the sprawling, well-maintained trail system. Take your bike out of your vacation rental’s garage and start pedaling, and you’ll find yourself in the forest in no time. Despite that easy trail access, Fox Mountain is located just minutes east of downtown Williams Lake to give you the best of both worlds.
10. Lac La Hache
Lac La Hache’s eccentric atmosphere makes it a popular destination for both tourists and retirees. It’s a great choice if you’re bringing along a boat, jet ski or kayak, as the long, pristine lake has numerous public launches. Lac La Hache is nicknamed “The Longest Town in the Cariboo” due to the way it hugs the shore of the lake, which means that you may be able to walk to a public beach from the door of your vacation rental.