Getting an escape out of a ‘family escape’ isn’t always as easy as it sounds, right?! That’s where the Family Escape Challenge comes in, a useful and at times playful collection to help you actually make a vacation out of catching up with family (when permitted). Recently, the Fox and Vanjecek families turned to the Campbell River Collection App to break out of the routine. Hitting up a total of 7 locations in one day; they beat cabin fever, had some laughs, collected points for sweet prizes and re-connected safely. Check out how they took on the Family Escape Collection – scoring 70 points in one day – can you beat the challenge?
*Restaurants, bars and pubs are closed for indoor dining until April 19th in accordance with the latest Public Health Orders. Outdoor patio seating and take-out are still allowed. Please call local restaurants to find out their dining options.
meet the families
The Fox Family
Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Yarrow and Matthew returned home to the island to start their family. The Fox fam has called Campbell River home for the past 10 years. You can find them with their kids cruising Beaver Lodge on their bikes, beach fire building at one of the local beaches, bobbing in the ocean with their wild swimmer’s crew, sipping craft brews or taking in community culture (when we could!).
The Vanjecek Family
We are the Vanjeceks. A family of 5 including myself Nycky-jay (camera in hand), and Dad Vin (house chef), raising our kids Oliver (11) and Alistair (6) with our pup Leo leading the way. When we aren’t exploring the beaches and lakes or biking the forest trails, we are most likely tasting all of the local treats and bevies. We love to let the kids choose our weekend adventures and see Vancouver Island through their eyes.
Follow Their Route
Stop #1 Elk Falls Provincial Park
Snow days in Campbell River are few and far between. Both families agreed that seeing Elk Falls in the snow was the highlight of the day. It made this special park that much more magical!
Local Tip: If you have younger kids, the stairs can be a lot. Keep the energy up with the promise of treats after!
Stop #3 Session Kitchen and Tap Room
Craft beer for the parents, craft sodas for the kids and pizza all around! This is a great stop for a mid-day pick-me-up!
Local Tip: Don’t forget dessert! Check out their cheesecake, we promise you won’t regret it!
Stop #5 The Discovery Pier
The pier is a classic family experience in any season. During the quieter winter months, check out the interactive digital screens to learn about the marine life below!
Local Tip: You never know when whales will pass by. Keep an eye out on the horizon.
Stop #7 – Coldwater dip
For those brave souls, challenge yourself with a refreshing dip in the ocean. Warm-up after with a beach fire and a marshmallow roast.
Local Tip: Ken Forde Park is a great spot for a dip as the water gets deep fast!
