Here are our tips for having the best down day in Historic Downtown.

You may have come to Fernie for a ski vacation intending to be on the slopes for every possible minute, but it’s a big mountain and even the best of us need some time off the snow. Luckily, Fernie has a whole range of relaxing activities to enjoy sans ski boots that will perfectly complement those big lines. Here are some top tips for having the best down day in downtown Fernie.

Down days are all about lazy starts, so begin with Brunch at The Loaf on 2nd Ave. This Fernie favourite has undergone a facelift and is now open 10am-10pm serving up brunch, lunch, and dinner with a focus on fresh, tasty, and affordable fare. Order the daily omelette — your taste buds will thank you!

Now that your belly is full, take a stroll to the nearby Fernie Museum and immerse yourself in the rich history of this little mining town. Learn about not one, but two fires, that destroyed the town and led to the architecture you see today. Read about local lore and the legend of The Griz, who is responsible for our deep, deep snowfall! Don’t forget to check out the seasonal exhibit on the upper floor.

Pop over to Essential Yoga Studio for a relaxing and revitalizing yoga class. It’s a great way to stretch out those muscles after charging hard on the mountain. They offer all sorts of classes from flow yoga to hot hatha. Complimentary mats are available if you didn't bring your own. If you are up for something with a bit more intensity, The Castle on First also offers a range of fun dance and fitness classes in addition to their yoga offerings.

Take that zen feeling and head back to 2nd Ave to explore the unique shops that make up the heritage downtown core. Pop into Freyja to get something cozy to wear for your next après ski session, peruse the selection of funky outdoor gear and hammocks at Elevation Showcase, try not to buy all the chocolate at the Beanpod, and let the cheesemonger help you pick out the perfect snack for later at Le Grand Fromage.

Now that you’ve scored some Fernie goodies, it’s time for some serious pampering — your next stop is Three Sisters Day Spa. Opt for a massage or a blissful specialty treatment like the rosemary mint awakening body wrap — hello relaxation!

Finally, bookend your day with more great eats at the South American/Latin fusion hotspot, Nevados. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but the ceviche is particularly delicious and the tacos are a great way to try a little bit of everything. Whatever you choose, pair it with a phenomenal specialty mixed drink like the pisco sour or a seasonal margarita.

After your full down day you have just one more decision to make — you can call it a day and hit the hay early so you’re ready for another big day on the mountain, or keep the fun going and explore this little mountain town’s hopping nightlife! Either way, it’s hard to go too wrong!

Be sure to scroll through the photos above for a taste of everything there is to enjoy. 

By Liz Craig