West Coast Island Discovery
Vancouver, Whistler and Victoria are the names that everyone knows, but the treasures of British Columbia extend far into the quiet bays, peaceful shorelines and ancient forests of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. Combine the highlights of the province’s Big 3 destinations with a taste of island life and culture. Resorts set on sparkling waters offer days on waves, and small communities accessible only by ferry promote serene reflection and an exploration of both nature and self. Small coastal communities feature low crowds, expansive trails and uncrowded parklands, and prebooked BC Ferry crossings make travel seamless and easy. Come discover the best of both worlds on the West Coast!
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Your Itinerary
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13
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Day 14-15
Day 1 : UK - Vancouver
Arrive at Vancouver International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. The rest of the day is yours to create your own urban adventure amid the stores, parks, restaurants, theatres and other attractions of downtown Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 : Vancouver
Today take some time to independently explore this vibrant city, offering many attractions such as Canada Place, the dynamic Robson Street, Chinatown and historic Gastown and Stanley Park. Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 : Vancouver to Whistler (125 km)
Collect your rental car today and depart on your journey to Whistler - the home of the 2010 Winter Olympics and one of the premier outdoor recreation villages in North America. You will travel along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, traversing five distinct climatic zones from rainforest to semi-arid alpine forest. The road also crosses the historic Pemberton Trail and Gold Rush Trail, used by prospectors in the 18th century. Travelling through small towns such as Squamish and skirting the shores of Daisy Lake, you arrive in picturesque Whistler Village set at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Overnight in Whistler.
Day 4 : Whistler
The many charms of Whistler are yours to discover today. The 2010 Winter Olympics showcased the multitude of sights and activities available in Whistler, many of them operating year round. The local cafes and restaurants of the village provide the perfect destination for visitors leisurely exploring the pedestrian walkways and town squares. Woodland trails surround the village, as does a well-developed network of biking and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities. Overnight in Whistler.
Day 5 : Whistler to Sunshine Coast / Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina, Madeira Park (188 km - land only)
After another scenic drive down the Sea-to-Sky Highway, it’s time to head up the stunning coastline en route to the first resort of your package! Crossing the pleasant waters of Horseshoe Bay on BC Ferries vessel, disembark in Langdale and travel northward through such small, seaside communities as Davis Bay, and past the headwaters of the stunning Sechelt Inlet. Arriving at Painted Boat Resort, check in to this idyllic retreat for your 2 night stay.
Overnight at Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina.
Day 6 : Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina, Madeira Park
Enjoy a full day at leisure, the amenities of the resort enhancing your stay in this outdoor paradise. Relax on your private balcony, or perhaps walk the docks along the waterfront. The infinity pool and hot tubs entice all guests to relax, and canoe and kayak rentals (at additional cost, onsite) allow you to explore the local waterways. Overnight at Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina.
Day 7 : Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina, Madeira Park to Courtenay (113 km - land only)
Today you enjoy the view as much from the water as you do from the road! After departing the resort, you are soon on BC Ferries vessel crossing from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay. A short drive along the coast, and soon you are boarding your second ferry and crossing the deep blue waters of the Strait of Georgia. Arriving in the small town of Comox, the short drive to Courtney will leave plenty of time to check in, relax and explore the local area and beachfront. Overnight in Courtenay.
Day 8 : Courtenay to Victoria (220 km)
Departing Courtenay, today’s journey takes you southward along the east coast of Victoria. Beautiful towns that celebrate their island lifestyles such as Parksville and Nanaimo offer the perfect place to stop for lunch and indulge in some local delicacies. If time permits, the murals at Chemainus are a draw for artists and visitors alike, depicting First Nations culture and the history of the area. Arrive in Victoria – the city that celebrates its British heritage with stunning public and private gardens. Overnight in Victoria.
Day 9 : Victoria
Today, explore this elegant capital city. We suggest a visit to Beacon Hill Park and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. You may decide to drop in for afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel and experience a taste of British charm. No stay in the city is complete without a tour of the world-famous Butchart Gardens – a brilliant collection of thousands of plants, exploding in lush colours and textures. Overnight in Victoria.
Day 10 : Victoria to Salt Spring Island (52 km - land only)
Today’s short travel time is capped off by a scenic crossing to Salt Spring Island – a small community that lives life at a more relaxed pace. After checking in, take some time to independently explore the surrounding area and its magnificent views of water. Overnight on Salt Spring Island.
Day 11 : Salt Spring Island
We suggest checking with the front desk of your hotel about any available activities such as cycling or canoeing, or any local markets or festivals. The local residents often celebrate the long days of summer with gathering and local events that welcome all guests to their small communities. Overnight on Salt Spring Island.
Day 12 : Salt Spring Island to Galiano Island (38 km - land only)
Today is a day of true island hopping enroute to Galiano Island! Two ferries that navigate the local islands reveal the stunning majesty of the inlets, sounds and bays of these quiet waters. Arriving on Galiano Island, check in and perhaps take a drive up Mount Galiano for unsurpassed views, or hike uncrowded trails in blissful solitude. Overnight on Galiano Island.
Day 13 : Galiano Island to Richmond / Vancouver Airport (50 km - land only)
One last ferry crossing of your vacation takes you to Richmond. Once known as only a stopover for the airport, Richmond has developed over the last several years to a vibrant tourist centre, offering a wide variety of Asian inspired authentic restaurants, attractions and venues. Overnight in Richmond / Vancouver International Airport.
Day 14-15 : Vancouver to UK
Leave your rental car at the airport and check in for your homeward flight
