British Columbia, Canada
Reach Salt Spring Island via BC Ferries from Swartz Bay (near Victoria) or Crofton (near Duncan). The ferry journey itself presents scenic views.
Discover numerous artisan studios, wineries, and breweries. The island also contains charming hiking trails.
Explore additional localities accessible for a day trip from Victoria, offering varied activities.
This area comprises Vancouver Island's wine country. Enjoy wine tasting at numerous vineyards. Discover artisanal food producers, including cheese makers and cideries. Explore Duncan, the "City of Totems," with its outdoor collection of First Nations totem poles. Visit the charming seaside village of Cowichan Bay, with colorful houses and independent shops.
Visit Sooke Potholes Provincial Park for unique geological formations and swimming holes in summer. Access sections of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail for day hikes with dramatic coastal views. Explore Botanical Beach Provincial Park near Port Renfrew, distinguished for its tide pools that present diverse marine life at low tide. Experience rugged coastal scenery and a sense of wildness.
Vancouver Island’s natural splendor holds countless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
These islands present excellent conditions for kayaking, hiking, and camping. Explore marine and terrestrial ecosystems, with secluded beaches and calm waters.
This trail features options for challenging day hiking or multi-day backpacking along a rugged coastline. Stunning views, old-growth forests, and beautiful beaches await.
Discover fascinating limestone caves with guided tours suitable for various difficulty levels, from easy walks to adventurous spelunking.
While best for an overnight stay, a very long day trip from central Vancouver Island appears possible. Experience expansive beach walks, explore temperate rainforest trails, try surfing, or witness storm watching (in winter).
Vancouver Island contains a vast network of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, from easy strolls through urban parks to challenging backcountry treks. Many trails traverse old-growth forests and coastal areas.
Discover the island's history and cultural expressions through these engaging outings.
Explore the unique outdoor mural gallery in Chemainus. Over 60 large murals depict the town's history, focusing on its logging heritage and pioneers. Stroll through the town, admiring the art and browsing local shops.
Visit the Kwisitis Visitor Centre in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve near Tofino for exhibits on the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. These experiences present opportunities to learn about traditional practices, art forms, and contemporary life.
Engage in wine and cider tastings at the numerous vineyards and cideries spread throughout the Cowichan Valley. Many conduct tours of their facilities, yielding insights into the production process. Experience farm-to-table dining at vineyard restaurants.
Victoria’s downtown core contains a wealth of historic buildings. The British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel lead the architectural landmarks. Stroll through the Inner Harbour and Gastown to view Victorian-era structures and unique streetscapes.
Beyond wineries, the Cowichan Valley contains a culinary scene, stressing local, seasonal ingredients. Many farms conduct direct sales, and artisanal producers present a variety of goods.
Directly purchase fresh produce, eggs, and meats from local farms.
Sample and purchase artisanal cheeses crafted from local dairy.
Discover a range of hard ciders made from island-grown apples.
Consider lengthening your Vancouver Island trip to explore other parts of British Columbia or nearby regions, connecting seamlessly with different landscapes and experiences.
Easily connect via BC Ferries from Victoria's Swartz Bay or Nanaimo's Departure Bay. Floatplane services also feature fast direct links from Victoria's Inner Harbour to Vancouver Harbour. Explore Stanley Park, Granville Island Market, historic Gastown, and diverse dining.
Drive from Vancouver along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, or take a bus. In winter, Whistler Blackcomb presents world-class skiing and snowboarding. In summer, enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for stunning alpine views.
Take a BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Langdale, then drive along the coast. Explore charming coastal towns like Gibsons and Sechelt. Discover artisan communities, enjoy hiking trails, or go kayaking in sheltered waters.
BC Ferries forms the main transportation link between Vancouver Island and the mainland.
For quicker connections, floatplanes fly directly between Victoria and Vancouver harbours.
Scenic drives connect major centers, with coastal highways offering stunning views.
