Vancouver Island Tourism
Overview
Located of Canada’s Pacific Coast, Vancouver Island is a great destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. There are so many ideas for outdoor and indoor activities that you will be spoiled for choice: from hiking in the forests to spending your time on rugged beaches, from watching wildlife to visiting lovely tiny villages. Read on to find out top 5 things to do on Vancouver Island.
#1: Explore Victoria’s historic center
Victoria, the capital city of Vancouver Island, has a gorgeous old town that you can easily navigate on foot. Tourists can spend the entire day wandering from one building to another. Tour the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, learn about the history of the area in the Royal BC Museum, and stop by a local restaurant to try some fresh seafood. Don’t forget to grab a map!
#2: Visit the Butchart Gardens
Located just 20 km from Victoria, the Butchart Gardens is the place you definitely should not miss. About a million tourists visit the gardens each year, as every season here is different: the colors of the new blooms in spring, outdoor activities and fireworks in summer, fall foliage and golden colors, and of course the Christmas decorations in winter. The easiest way to reach the Butchart Gardens is by car or via a bus tour that you can book in advance.
#3: Hike in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Take a stroll along the sandy beach, look for wildlife, or take a hike the 75-kilometre West Coast Trail: the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve offers plenty of activities for all ages. Regardless if you are a surfer, nature lover, photographer, or thrill seeker – you will find something in this 511 km² park located on the west coast of Vancouver Island!
#4: Watch whales, dolphins or seals
Vancouver Island is a perfect location for whale, dolphin and seal watching. Whales and other marine animals are frequently spotted in the waters of Vancouver Island. The most convenient option is to buy a whale-watching tour with a local operator. Promise: this will be an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages!
#5: Walk through time in Craigdarroch Castle
Get some Victoria days experience and step inside Craigdarroch Castle, an enchanting mansion built in 1890. Enjoy a stroll around this impressive castle and learn the story of Robert Dunsmuir, the castle’s founder and wealthy coal baron. Craigdarroch Castle is one of Canada’s few awe-inspiring castles: a trip to this historic gem is definitely worth a visit!