Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler are the liveliest places in B.C. Known as resourceful and delightful tourism destinations, they are safe and fun to visit as a driving tour. It is the best way to get an eyeful essence of the coastal B.C.
5 days 4 nights
Year Round
Vancouver, BC
Pick up a pre-arranged rental car heading to the Tsawwassen B.C. ferry terminal, which is south of Richmond. It will take you on a 1 1/2-hour sail across the Strait of Georgia near Vancouver Island. During the sail, you may have the chance to view some wild sea animals, such as birds, sea lions as well as Whales. Upon arrival on Swartz Bay (on Vancouver Island), you can first visit the Butchart Garden. This 55-acre private garden wonderfully displays seasonal floral. Then head along Highway #17 for about 20 minutes, you will arrive in Victoria. Inner harbour is always filled with a relaxing atmosphere with locals and tourists. Enjoy the sunset. (Overnight in Victoria)
Today, you have free time in Victoria. You may join a whale watching tour that departs at inner harbour. You can also visit the Royal B.C. Museum, where there is always one feature exhibition. Other highlights include Beacon Hill Park, Oak Way scenic drive, the University of Victoria, finally complete the circle at Chinatown. If you prefer, enjoy the luxury afternoon tea at Empress Hotel overlooking the harbour.
Enjoy a free morning in Victoria. You may like to tee a round on one of the most delightful golf courses. Next, you head north to Nanaimo. Stop by Goldstream Provincial Park, which lies amid the splendor of an old-growing temperate rain forest. It is also known as one of the best places for seeing the salmon-spawning stream with thousands of Chum Salmon returning between October and December. Continuing north on Hwy#1, you shall visit Duncan, also called Totem Town. There are hundreds of totem poles all over the town centre. Next destination is Chemainus, which is famous for outdoor wall murals in the town buildings. Eventually you will arrive in Nanaimo. Similar to Victoria, enjoy a nice afternoon along the scenic Harbourfront Walkway that spans 5 km. (Overnight in Nanaimo)
Today, embark on B.C. ferries at Departure Bay back to mainland, B.C. After arriving in Horseshoe Bay, drive on Hwy 99, which is also known as Sea-to-Sky highway. From this name, you will see the beauty of the scenery. You could stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park. It is composed of a series of cliffs, making it the 3rd highest falls in the province. You will see lots of adventurers who are cliff climbing at this location. You may also enjoy a lunch break at Squamish. After about another 50 minutes travelling north, you then arrive at the world class Whistler Blackcomb Resort. After checking in to your hotel, totally relax here in the village all afternoon.
Enjoy exciting morning outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, ATV off-road adventuring, or playing another round of world-class golf. Ride on a Gondola to the peak and witness stunning views of both mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It will take about 2 hours from Whistler to Vancouver. Your journey ends tonight when you give back your rental car.
