Tour Overview
British Columbia is Canada’s ‘outdoor playground’ offering year-round adventures for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike. Situated in BC’s southwest corner and bound by the Strait of Georgia, the Fraser River, and the Coastal Mountains, is the alluring city of Vancouver. In Vancouver, one can experience a wide array of recreational activities by day with the comfort of returning to urban amenities at night. Continue on to the Sunshine Coast. While technically part of the mainland the Sunshine Coast, reachable only by boat or air; feels more like an island. BC Ferries sail regularly between main areas of interest offering visitors access to miles of pristine coastline and lush countryside. Roughly the size of Holland, Vancouver Island is an exciting region rich in history and culture, wine and agro-tourism, wildlife watching and a plethora of outdoor activities. Also home to the historic capital city of Victoria, which is famous for its historic buildings and bustling inner harbor; no trip to the island is complete without visiting this jewel. From the internationally renowned Metro Vancouver area to the 110 mile stretch of paradise known as the Sunshine Coast, & Vancouver Island visitors can experience BC’s breathtaking scenery their own way – from five-star resorts to rustic cabins, laid-back relaxation to white-knuckle adventure.Day by Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Vancouver, CanadaArrive in Vancouver, British Columbia. Collect your luggage and pick up your rental car. Drive to the hotel for check-in. Situated between the Coastal Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is a combination of a bustling multi-cultural cosmopolitan and an outdoor mecca.
Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre or similar Day 02: Vancouver - Gibson's - Egmont (Sunshine Coast)
This morning drive to the ferry terminal in West Vancouver and board the 45-minute ferry (not included) across Howe Sound. Today’s drive to the lodge is scenic and leisurely. With only 80 km to travel, you have time to explore the charming village of Gibson’s with its quaint harbor and shops. An early arrival at the lodge allows time for you to relax and enjoy outdoor activities; hiking, mountain biking, sea kayaking in sheltered waters, and scuba diving can all be arranged through the lodge (additional fees may apply.)
West Coast Wilderness Lodge
Day 03: Sunshine Coast
Today is free to spend at leisure. You may choose from the many activities offered by the lodge (additional fees may apply.) Opt for a wildlife tour or marine excursion to legendary destinations such as the Princess Louisa Inlet and Skookumchuck Rapids. The more adventurous can take a flight to a mountain lake for a canoe trip, or do a heli ride to a mountain top and hike in the alpine.
West Coast Wilderness Lodge Day 04: Egmont - Vancouver Island - Campbell River
This morning take two BC ferries to Vancouver Island (Comox). From the Comox Valley, follow the Oceanside route to Miracle Beach Provincial Park, Oyster River, and Saratoga Beach en route to Campbell River. Known for the past century as the “Salmon capital of the world”, Campbell River is an outdoor paradise. Nestled on the pristine shores of Vancouver Island in Campbell River, Painter’s Lodge offers world-class BC salmon fishing, thrilling wildlife and nature tours, breathtaking scenery and all the amenities you’d expect from a traditional resort. Today is left unscheduled. The lodge offers many optional activities including fishing trips and wildlife tours where it’s possible to spot eagles, bears, seals, killer whales, and sea lions.
Painter’s Lodge or similar Day 05: Campbell River - Parksville
This morning drive south to Parksville/Qualicum Beach area. Take your time as you meander through this laid-back region. Bordered by ocean and sheltered by mountains, Parksville has over 7 km of sandy beaches and the warmest saltwater for swimming north of California's Big Sur. Like its close neighbor Qualicum Beach, Parksville is an enchanting seaside village. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the day at leisure.
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort or similar
Day 06: Parksville - Victoria
This morning continue south to British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria. Enjoy Canadian culture as you pass by murals on the buildings in Chemainus and the totem poles in Duncan. You may also want to make a visit to the Butchart Gardens, offering 55 acres of wonderful floral display or stop by one of Vancouver Island’s wineries. While Victoria’s British ancestry is apparent in the double-decker buses, horse-drawn carriages, and formal gardens, the city has become a cosmopolitan center with a lively entertainment scene and a wonderful array of attractions. Enjoy the day at leisure.
Victoria Hotel Grand Pacific
Day 07: Victoria
This morning experience a 3-hour whale watching tour from Victoria. Each tour has a certified naturalist or biologist who will provide educational commentary throughout the tour. Each Zodiac is outfitted with a hydrophone so you can hear the whales vocalize! The balance of the day is at your leisure to explore Victoria’s Parliament buildings, the picturesque Inner Harbour, or historic Chinatown.
Victoria Hotel Grand Pacific Day 08: Victoria - Vancouver - Depart
Depending on your departure time, you may have time to explore more of Victoria. Drive to the ferry terminal to board the 95-minute ferry (not included) back to Vancouver. Continue on to the airport and return your rental car before checking in for your outbound flight.
