Hey friends! I had the opportunity to collaborate with "The Fraser Valley" on this project, and it was so much fun meeting and working with their team of lovely humans.  Photos are by the ever so talented: @artandthearealist - Kat Grabowski, unless otherwised tagged.

They asked me to share a few of my favourite spots in the valley, and it was tough to narrow them down!  There are so many incredible local places that have been popping up in recent years, and they've affirmed my decision to continue to make the Fraser Valley my home.

So, if you were visiting the Fraser Valley for a couple days....this is what I would say to you:

Day 1

Start your morning off in the quaint town of Fort Langley, with breakfast at Wendel's Bookstore and Cafe (I would recommend the French Toast or Avocado Benny), and be sure to browse their book selection as well.

Walk over to the Village Antique Mall, which has an amazing assortment of treasures, including vintage records, postcards, jewelry. furniture, books, and more.  You never know what you might find....maybe even a replacement gravy boat that matches your Grandma's original China set (true story!).  There are so many other sweet antique shops in the area, as well as candy story, cranberry store (life-changing cranberries!), hat shop, gelato and ice cream shops, and more.

Head over to Abbotsford in time for lunch at Duft & Co Bakehouse.  You truly can't go wrong in this bakery, and deciding what to order might be the toughest decision you make all day.  My go-to sandwich is their smoked turkey, bacon & cheddar sandwich, which is served on the most delicious, flaky butter croissant.  For a sweet treat I would recommend a seasonal danish, or their sour cream doughnut if you go on a Saturday!  (They also have gluten free options!)

Next, pop over to Spruce Collective and their sister store The Market (located directly across the street) where all of your home decor dreams will come true.  Half of my home is from Spruce, from furniture, to pillows, to soap, and more.  They have so many beautiful locally made items, as well as gorgeous vintage pieces.  This is a great place to find unique gifts for friends, family, or for yourself!

Explore the rest of downtown Abbotsford as well, where there are so many local shops (Confetti Floral, Montrose and George, Hemingways Used Books, The Kindred Clothing Co, etc).

For supper, visit Duft & Co Brickhouse for the most delicious pizza you've ever had in your life!  Cooked in a traditional brick oven, the crust on these pizzas really makes them stand out.  I always order the Bianco (looks unassuming, but is unreal), and usually try whatever special they have. Don't miss out on their housemade chips for an appetizer, and the salted caramel chocolate tart for dessert.

To end the night, head over to Field House Brewing for a local beer, and maybe even some live music depending on what night you visit.

Day 2:

Grab coffee and some breakfast eats at Oldhand Coffee in downtown Abbotsford.  Their nitro cold brew is incredible, as well as any of their scones, and please don't leave without trying the Cinnamon Brioche (warmed up of course!).

Fall Activities:  If visiting in Fall, check out some of the amazing Fall activities that many of the local farms offer.  U-pick apples, pumpkin picking, hayrides, hot apple cider, corn mazes, petting barns....the list goes on!  Willow View Farms, Taves Family Farm, and Maan Farms are just a few great options.

Then head over to Chilliwack for some outdoor fun.  Stop at Hazel Springs Bakery on the way for lunch, which has an eclectic feel and such good eats.

One of the best hikes I've ever done is Mt. Cheam.   Breathtaking views, wildflowers in bloom (if you're lucky) and such a diverse landscape as you ascend, and the best panoramic view of the Fraser Valley, this hike will be sure to impress you.  Important things to note:  must have a rugged 4x4 vehicle, as the drive to the trailhead is not for the faint of heart.  Also, this hike is intermediate level, and not for beginners.
 

For an easier adventure, visit Bridal Veil Falls, walk along the Fraser River, or visit Cultus Lake.

End the day with supper at Shandhar Hut for delicious Indian Cuisine.  Everything is served in beautiful copper servingware, and they have too many good dishes for me to try and choose a favourite.

That's really just the tip of the ice berg!  There are so many amazing things to experience here in the valley, and I do hope you'll visit one day!

-Kelsey