Day 1 – Fly from the UK to Vancouver
Arrive into Vancouver International Airport and pick up your hire car on arrival. Take some time to explore this vibrant city, offering many attractions such as Canada Place, the dynamic Robson Street, Chinatown and historic Gastown. Perhaps visit Stanley Park en-route to Cleveland Dam and the Capilano Suspension Bridge in the North Shore rainforest. Here you can cross the 137m-long bridge over a spectacular canyon to the Treetops Adventure observation structure for even more incredible views of this old growth forest.
Stay two nights in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Drive from Vancouver to Whistler (approx. 80 miles)
Make your way 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, crossing 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. Explore the many charms Whistler has to offer. 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.
Stay two nights in Whistler.
Day 5 – Drive from Whistler to Sunshine Coast / Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina, Madeira Park (approx. 120 miles – land only)
After another scenic drive down the Sea-to-Sky Highway, it’s time to head up the stunning coastline en-route to Madeira Park! 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. Spend a full day at leisure, and enjoy all the amenities of 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 allow you to explore the local waterways.
Stay two nights at Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina.
Day 7 – Drive from Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina, Madeira Park to Courtenay (approx. 70 miles – land only)
Today you will be enjoying the views from the water as well as the road! After departing the resort, set off on a BC Ferries vessel crossing from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay. After a short drive along the coast, you will be 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 – Drive from Courtenay to Victoria (approx. 140 miles)
Today’s drive 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. 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. Explore this elegant capital city, a visit to Beacon Hill Park and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is sure to have your mind in an artistic spin. Drop in for afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel and experience a taste of British charm or take a tour of the world-famous Butchart Gardens – a brilliant collection of thousands of plants, exploding in lush colours and textures.
Stay two nights in Victoria.
Day 10 – Drive from Victoria to Salt Spring Island (approx. 35 miles – 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 explore the surrounding area and its magnificent views of the water. Check with your hotel’s front desk to see if any local markets or festivals are taking place during your stay. The local residents often celebrate the long days of summer with local events that welcome all guests to their small communities. Stay two nights on Salt Spring Island.
Day 12 – Drive from Salt Spring Island to Galiano Island (approx. 25 miles – land only)
Today is a day of true island hopping en-route 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 – Drive from Galiano Island to Richmond / Vancouver Airport (approx. 35 miles – land only)
The final ferry crossing of your holiday 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 – Drop off your hire car and fly from Vancouver to the UK