Navigating the Neighbourhood: What’s Hot in Cambie Village

By Lise Boullard

Yes, Opal’s luxury residence is set to offer so many amenities and activities (from a spa to cooking, yoga and TaiChi classes), that residents and their families might not find a reason to ever leave. But when they do want to go for a stroll, a short drive or a bike ride, they will be starting from their home at 438 West King Edward Avenue, smack dab in the middle of one of the most peaceful-yet-interesting neighbourhoods in Vancouver.

Walk Score gave Opal by Element’s address a score of 84 (“Very Walkable”) since most errands can be accomplished on foot, and the site called it a “Biker’s Paradise” with a rating of 97, since the area is mostly flat with excellent bike lanes. Opal is also perfectly situated for transit-takers: it’s only a one-minute walk to the King Edward stop of the Canada Line Skytrain station, and there is a bus stop right next to the residence. Here, a few areas for you explore nearby:

Cambie Village: The most culturally interesting neighbourhood west of Main Street, Cambie Village is home to the Park Theatre, a quaint one-theatre movie house opened in 1941 showing both blockbusters and indie films. Another cultural institution, the lively and authentic Kino Café (you’ll likely feel as if you’ve flown to Barcelona for the evening), has been serving up Spanish tapas, sangria and nightly live performances, including Flamenco or stand-up comedy, since it opened in 1987. When it comes to coffee and dining options, Cambie Village delivers with excellent java at J.J. Bean Coffee Roasters and mouth-watering menus at Vij’s and BierCraft.

 Queen Elizabeth Park: A short jaunt on foot, by bike or car will bring you to one of the lushest and most beautiful green spaces in Vancouver. In addition to acres of grass and kilometres of trails along which to run, bike and play, the 53-hectare park boasts a pitch and putt green, tennis courts, The Vancouver Lawn Bowling Club, a roller hockey and disc golf rink, picnic area and an off-leash dog park. A short walk or drive up the hill (which, at 152 metres above sea level, offers one of the best views in Vancouver) will bring you to the Bloedel Conservatory which features an expansive arboretum full of rare exotic and native plants. At the peak of Queen Elizabeth Park you will also find the acclaimed Seasons in Park restaurant, a favourite spot for special occasions, including family celebrations.

 Nat Bailey Stadium: During the summer months, families fill the stands at “The Nat” to watch their beloved Vancouver Canadians baseball team play (but not before loading up on hot dogs, popcorn and sodas at the concession). Just like many of the arts, crafts and cooking activities offered at Opal by Element, an afternoon at “The Nat” is a great bonding opportunity for kids, parents and grandparents alike.

 For more information visit walkscore.com