The Unique & Hidden Gems Tour
- Part 2 -
Rich in Francophone history, the Town of Falher has something interesting for everyone! Boasting the world’s largest bee and being known as the “Honey Capital of Canada”, you will be able to curate an unforgettable visit or stay during your time here.
World’s Largest Bee
Falher is home to a truly unique marvel – the world’s largest bee structure! Measuring in at an impressive size, this colossal bee statue sits 20 feet in the air and captures the imagination of visitors and locals alike. As you stand in awe of this monumental insect, you will be able to appreciate the intricate artistry that brings this giant bee to life. Created by a local welder in 1990, this well-known monument is the perfect place to snap a few pictures and read up on the historical information displayed around the site.
Honey Capital Park
Happiness can be found at the Honey Capital Park! This bee themed park boasts a 27-foot slide, a toddler park, a four-story beehive play structure, a soccer net, and an entertaining water splash park. You can spend hours here climbing the tall structure, flying down the slide, playing a friendly game of soccer, or running full speed through the splashing water on a hot summer day. Ideal for those who want to experience something different, this unique park is bound to bring endless joy to children and those young at heart.
St. Jean- Baptiste Mission Registered Historical Site
Take a walk back in time at the St. Jean-Baptiste Mission. This registered historical site has been restored to showcase its original appearance and is open to the public to view and explore. Featuring full dovetail notching, a gable roof, and a small cupola crowned with a cross on top, this gorgeous two- and one-half storey building is a sight to behold. You will be able to appreciate the craftsmanship and history attached to Falher’s first church and will have the opportunity to learn more about the area’s historical background.
Eat & Drink
Stay
This friendly, Francophone community has a wide variety of activities and attractions that everyone can enjoy. If you’re looking for a low-key outing, a quiet getaway, or something a little more active, Girouxville has it all.
Girouxville Museum
With a collection of over 6,000 artifacts, this museum depicts the history of pioneers and missionaries of the Smoky River region. This large collection also highlights natural history, transportation, communications, photography, the fur trade, and hunting. Also on display are antique automobiles, such as a fire truck, and even an ambulance. Learning about the historical ways of life has never been more fascinating, and the Girouxville Museum will truly take you back in time.
Smoky Lanes Bowling Alley
If you’re searching for a family friendly activity, then you must make a stop at the Smoky Lanes Bowling Alley! This five-pin bowling establishment will have you laughing, shrieking with excitement at each strike, and having a blast with your closest friends or family members. Perfect for quality time, or those days when you need to burn off some energy, this bowling alley will always be a hit during each visit.
Stay
Known for its captivating beauty, prime golfing location, exciting events, and pristine campgrounds, Birch Hills County offers a plethora of outdoor attractions and one-of-a-kind experiences. Amongst its gorgeous landscapes you will be able to find unique places to explore, stay and dine at.
Eaglesham Golf Course
Located near the charming hamlet of Eaglesham, this 9-hole golf course provides golfers of all skill levels a stunning view as they tee off and putt at each hole. To keep it exciting, this course not only has immaculate fairways and greens, but it also has water hazards and trees to test your skills at each turn. With affordable rates and welcoming staff members, you can rent clubs, carts, and pull carts, or grab a fresh meal and drink at the clubhouse before perfecting your swing on the course.
Dreamers Lake & Campground
Memories are made at the Dreamers Lake and Campground! Be prepared to be greeted by beautiful lake views, enticing trails, plenty of wildlife, a captivating playground, and more. Bring your kayak or canoe and paddle through the calm waters while you watch local birds dip and dive through the sky into the treeline, or lounge in the gazebo with a good book while your children play a thrilling game of tag on the play equipment. Stay for as long as you like and take advantage of the 24 camping sites, washrooms and showers for an unforgettable summer escape.
Wanham Plowing Match
Held every June, the Wanham Plowing Match is an exciting event that highlights the vast history and culture of farming in the region with plowing competitions, horse shows, threshing demonstrations, tractor pulls and more. Take in the exhilarating and high-speed horse events, listen to live music, browse the local food vendors, or take in the parade – there’s never a dull moment at this annual event!
Eat & Drink
Stay
Experience nature, culture, and adventure around every corner of the Saddle Hills County. You will be greeted with natural wonders along the way such as a waterfall, mesmerizing hiking trails, beautifully treed in campsites and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick pitstop or a place to stay for multiple days, you’ll be able to create fond memories within this gorgeous region.
Cotillion Park
Known as one of the best boating locations in the Peace Country, Cotillion Park is home to one of a kind trails, a mini waterfall, and 20 overnight stalls equipped with firepits and picnic tables. Ideal for those looking for a true getaway in nature, you will be able to relax alongside the river, explore the Peace River by boat, see some of the most gorgeous landscapes, and hike throughout the tranquil forests nearby. The best part? The night sky will offer you some of the most epic starry nights as you visit around a crackling fire with your closest friends and family.
Savanna Spray Park
An absolute dream in the summertime, the Savanna Spray Park offers endless sprays, splashes, and nonstop fun to everyone who visits. This professionally designed park is almost always filled with joyous laughter, smiling children, and families completely enjoying themselves. Pack a lunch, bring your sunscreen, a warm towel for later, and you’ll be set for an afternoon of excitement amongst the brightly coloured water features.
Bay Tree Boutique
Craving some retail therapy? Then be sure to add the Bay Tree Boutique to your list of stops this summer. Offering chic clothing and accessories, home décor, beauty and self care products, as well as trendy footwear, tasty treats, and more – you’ll be able to fill your shopping bags and leave on a high note after each visit.
Eat & Drink
Stay
The MD of Fairview is brimming with interactive historical sites, large, forested areas, jaw dropping river tours, incredible camping spots, and some of the best eateries in the Mighty Peace. Here you will be able to immerse yourself in natural beauty, welcoming atmospheres, and some of the greatest scenic views in the Peace Region.
Historic Dunvegan
Discover the charm of Historic Dunvegan where time seems to stand still. Walk through well-preserved historic buildings, explore Indigenous artifacts and their relevance to the area, and enjoy the serene backdrop of the mighty Peace River and Dunvegan Bridge. A journey to the past awaits you in this captivating cultural and natural oasis.
Boating
Launch your boat, canoe, or kayak at the boat launch beneath the Dunvegan Bridge for one of the most thrilling boating or paddling experiences in the Peace. Drift along the scenic waterway and watch as the landscapes around you vary from large rocky cliffs, and dense forests to white sandy beaches. If you’d rather have a local guide you, book with Peace River Adventures for a personalized tour of the river. With an expert, bilingual guide, they will take you to unique spots along the water that can only be reached by boat and unveil tales of local history and wildlife. Don’t forget to bring your camera – the views from the river are unmatched and you will be treated to a unique perspective of the area’s natural beauty.
The Maples
This gorgeous day use area is situated right next to the Peace River and holds great history. Originally an Anglican Mission stood in this area in the 1880’s, but today, the Maples is an ideal spot to host picnics, family gatherings, or be a pit stop for those who want to hike, bike, or play on the playground. Offering a covered picnic area, you will be able to enjoy as many hours as you’d like here. Surrounded by large trees and green grass, this tranquil spot will have you coming back for more visits year after year.
Eat & Drink
Stay
Visit the Village of Hines Creek, where small-town charm meets warm hospitality. Explore local attractions, savor the homecooked meals, and connect with the welcoming community within. This area offers plenty of outdoor excursions, is rich in history, and truly has something for everyone.
Hines Creek Golf Course
A hidden gem in the Mighty Peace, the Hines Creek Golf Course has a beautifully treed in course and is the second oldest course in Northern Alberta. No matter your skill level, you will enjoy this 11-hole course with well manicured greens and the Hines Creek meandering throughout. Cart rentals are available, but if you feel like taking your time and soaking in the surrounding views, then it’s highly suggested to walk the course and appreciate the scenery around you.
Hines Creek Museum
Known as the End of Steel Museum, Hines Creek’s historical centre opened in 1985 and celebrates the fact that Hines Creek was once the end of the railway line. Located on site are three historical houses, among many other buildings. The first home was built in 1928 and is a small hand-hewn log house that was built by immigrant settlers, another is from 1938 that is unusually large, and the third is a French “half house” that was built in 1948 or 1949 that features a narrow staircase and plenty of historical value. With many other buildings and artifacts in the museum, you will have no problem spending a few hours here as you learn about the homesteading history of Hines Creek.
Hines Creek Splash Park & Playground
Ideal for those with youngsters who need to burn off energy, the Hines Creek Splash Park and Playground is perfect for those long, hot summer days. Hours of endless fun can be had here; children often find that they love alternating between running through the water at the splash park and climbing on the playground nearby. Bring a lunch, plenty of snacks and refreshments and enjoy a day with copious amount of fresh air laughter.