Vancouver Island Escape
Self Drive Motorhome Touring
VANCOUVER | VICTORIA | TOFINO | CAMPBELL RIVER | TELEGRAPH COVE | QUALICUM BAY | NANAIMO
Discover an island of contrasts where white sandy beaches backed by temperate rain forests face the vast Pacific Ocean. Discover quaint towns and villages, dramatic marine drives and the stunning beauty of the Inside Passage.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Victoria, British Columbia’s Capital and ever so British
- Tofino - crashing waves and incredible marine life
- Stunning rainforests
- Explore the quaint town of Qualicum Bay on Vancouver’s east coast
- Cosmopolitan Vancouver; once voted one of the world’s most liveable cities
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2 & 3
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Day 4 & 5
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Day 6 & 7
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Day 8 & 9
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Day 10-11
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Day 12
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Day 13-14
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Day 15-16
Day 1 : UK - Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver and make your way to your hotel.
Day 2 & 3 : Vancouver - Victoria
Collect your motorhome and take the ferry to Vancouver Island. Enjoy the sights of Victoria, a quintessentially British city famed for its gardens and history, with many remnants of its 1840’s origins around the picturesque Inner Harbour. The waterfront, architecture, seafood and atmosphere add to Victoria’s charm.
Day 4 & 5 : Victoria – Tofino
Drive north along the coast then head west across the island. Travel along the pacific coast and arrive in Tofino, an ideal location for whale and bear watch cruises. With the perfect storm of jaw-dropping beauty, a relaxed local vibe and exhilarating pounding waves. Visit the salt bathed streets scattered with restaurants, galleries and artisan shops.
Day 6 & 7 : Tofino - Campbell River
Drive over the rugged Malahat highlands and stop at the Malahat summit to take in the stunning views of the fjords and glaciers. Drive on to Campbell River and visit Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. The park is home to majestic old growth trees, beautiful ocean sunsets and an inviting wide, sandy beach. Simply sit back, relax and soak up the seaside atmosphere or talk a walk through the wooded upland area of the park.
Day 8 & 9 : Campbell River - Telegraph Cove
You might see killer whale pods and schools of dolphins and porpoises jumping over the cresting waves today. You’ll visit Cormorant Channel Provincial Park. Made up of a number of islands, the park is part of the core habitat of the Orca whale population, making it one of the best places in the world to witness these magnificent creatures in
their natural habitat.
Day 10-11 : Telegraph Cove - Qualicum Bay
For much of the way, your journey today runs beside Qualicum Bay. This quaint community began when European settles arrived on the east coast of Vancouver Island, looking for homesteads or work in the logging and fishing industries in the late 1800s. Today Qualicum Bay is enjoyed by those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle as well as those who like fishing; at several places along the way you can buy fresh seafood. Later, visit Little Qualicum Falls, a favourite destination on Vancouver Island. Impressive waterfalls cascade down a rocky gorge in a beautiful forested setting bordered by steep mountain peaks at this park. Stop by one of the shaded riverside trails or spots perfect for lake swimming.
Day 12 : Qualicum Falls - Nanaimo
It’s only a very short drive today to enjoy Vancouver Island’s second city. Visit The Bastion, the Hudson Bay Company’s old fortress and Nanaimo’s most important Heritage Building. The Bastion is recognised as a national treasure and is the oldest building in the city. It is now open to the public as a museum and you can watch everyday at noon as a nearby cannon fires blanks. Next to The Bastion is a beautiful walkway along the Nanaimo waterfront with access to popular shops and cafés; consider stopping for a drink at the historic Palace Hotel.
Day 13-14 : Nanaimo - Vancouver
The Horseshoe Bay Ferry is the best way back to the mainland for a final stop in Vancouver. Perhaps shop on chic Robson Street or explore the funky Granville Island with its market and artists enclave.
Day 15-16 : Vancouver - UK
Return your motorhome this morning and make your own way to Vancouver airport in order to board your flight back to the UK.
