This is a perfect time of year for a drive in the country. If you don’t want to invest in a whole weekend away but need the restorative break of leaving the city, consider heading toward Ladner/Delta for a day trip on Westham Island. There’s something immediately relaxing about the sound of wooden slats under your tires (be they car or bike) as you cross the Westham Island Bridge. On the other side are quiet roads flanked by long grass, plus roadside egg and vegetable stands. Cropthorne Farm is a great place for fresh, organic vegetables and, if you get there before they are all sold out: stunning bouquets of seasonal flowers. Fit in a walk at Reifel Bird Sanctuary too if you can (register in advance). You’ll feel like you’ve escaped on a country vacation, because you have!