Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands
Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands on the Pacific Ocean are wonderful places to get away from it all. Tucked against the mainland edge of British Columbia and the north shore of Washington's Olympic Peninsula, Vancouver Island stretches approximately 500 km (300 miles) southeast to northwest. British Columbia's Gulf Islands lie in the protected waters of Georgia Strait, between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia.
ocean experiences, from the high-alpine recreation areas of Mt. Washington and Forbidden Plateau to the many sandy beaches along its shores. Fishing, diving, boating, caving are all popular activities.
North Island A year-round outdoor adventure paradise, the rugged North Island region offers a wealth of recreation opportunities and is famous for its worldwide great fishing in spectacular settings. Teeming with wildlife, the North Island provides rewarding opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Gulf Islands Nestled along the sheltered eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands are known for their serenity, pristine beauty, and mild climate. Each of the Islands is unique in character yet shares a relaxed lifestyle cherished by locals and admired by visitors.
South Island Home to Victoria, the provincial capital, a city of flowers and elegant sophistication, heritage buildings and fine cuisine. The smaller communities, such as Sidney, a small resort town with beautiful marinas and ocean views, and Sooke, a bustling centre with great fishing await you. Follow the West Coast Road (Hwy 14), which leads the way to the rugged splendour of West Coast beaches, as well as hiking challenges of the Juan De Fuca Marine Trail.
Cowichan Region Rolling green landscapes of hills and valleys, forests and farmland, sparkling lakes and crystal-clear rivers characterize this lush region that extends from the Malahat section of Highway 1 in the south to Ladysmith in the north. Picturesque villages and native culture as well as the world-famous murals in Chemainus all beckon you.
Pacific Rim Renowned for pristine beaches, whale watching, wilderness camping and hiking, incredible fishing, and awesome winter storms. From crashing waves and the surf swept shore of Long Beach to the dense, old growth forests of Clayoquot Sound, this amazing region astounds and delights visitors every year. People flock to the quaint seaside towns of Tofino and Ucluelet, while others come to experience the West Coast Trail.
North Central Island Encompassing large portions of both the east and west coasts of Vancouver Island, the region offers a unique blend of alpine-to-
Island Highway Nanaimo to Port Hardy Tour On the eastern coast of Vancouver Island the traveller can explore the quaint seaside communities in the southern–most part of this tour, the fishing villages along the way and the remote scenery heading into Port Hardy. The distance from Nanaimo to Port Hardy is 427 km (268 mi) and unless you are taking the ferry north to Prince Rupert or Bella Coola you must turn around and retrace your steps. The tour starts in the busy port city of Nanaimo.
Pacific Marine Circle Tour The Pacific Marine Circle Tour is a short 255 km (158 mi) journey along Vancouver Island‟s remote coasts, and offers beautiful views of the Juan De Fuca, Haro and Georgia straits. The quiet ambiance of the island relaxes visitors with views of quiet parks and ocean- side towns. This short tour is best experienced over 2 to 4 days and will make you fall in love with southern Vancouver Island. Note: sections of the route are secondary roads without a centre line. There are narrow parts with a number of single lane bridges over several scenic streams. As well you will encounter hairpin bends and bumpy roads.
Tofino, Vancouver Island More Information:
www.travel-british-columbia.com www.vancouverisland.travel www.lodging.bc.ca
www.SelectLodging.com British Columbia Travel Companion 5
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