Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island- The Canadian outdoor

On the southern coast of Canada lies this incredible Vancouver Island which has lots in store for visitors who love the outdoors. This island is especially known for its wilderness parks, diverse activities, clear coastal waters, and traditional communities. Besides the outstanding scenario, the wildlife in both marine and landlocked are amazingly beautiful. This place is truly a nature lover’s dream come true. Apart from its natural surroundings, the island also has cosmopolitan cities and harbors best suited for those who like to travel in comfort and style.

How to go to Vancouver Island

The island has two airports: Victoria and Comox from where international and domestic flights are available. To reach the island you can easily take the ferry from the city of Vancouver or Seattle.

Things to do on Vancouver Island

Get prepared for a lifetime experience of adventure on Vancouver Island, British Colombia. Victoria, Campbell River, and park Villas are some of the places to be explored. It is a mixture of magnificent rainforests, mountains, beaches, pristine rivers, and lakes. Outdoor activities include:

• Camping
• Hiking
• Golfing
• Kayaking
• Whale watching
• Wildlife viewing
• Salmon fishing

At the south end of the island is the famous “galloping goose trial”. To start on the fitness trial, take the galloping goose and try the fifty-five-kilometer walk or Cycling could be easier for a good start. Try a bit of wilderness hiking in the center of the island at the Strathcona provisional park. Other than this the island presents before us the Vancouver special west coast trial which is also known as “the real Canadian experience”. This is one of the toughest hikes and all you need is an adventurous mind to travel into the wild which will take from five to ten days. For getting there you have to get a permit, and then your journey starts where you will get lots of rain and mud. You will also have to deal with the tide changes, tree ladders, steep climbing, and natural bridges.

The island has seven different geographic regions, each of which possesses unique characteristics. They are all connected with each other through transit networks. The three main different regions are:

• The most densely populated area is South Vancouver Island. The province capital of Victoria is located here.
• The North Vancouver Island region is just the opposite which is a remote area where outdoor lovers can get opportunities for a recreational adventure.
• Central Vancouver Island is home to popular places like Nanaimo and Tofino.

Della falls

One of the tallest waterfalls can also be found in this park. Those who can manage the steep hike, which is 440 meters upwards, can enjoy the majestic view of the Della Falls. However dangerous animals like bears and cougars can be found around. Of course, all these make an ideal gateway for outdoor adventures who can feel nature at their home.

Qualicum Beach- a must visit

Located at a reachable distance from Nanaimo, is Victoria or Nanaimo. A visit to Vancouver Island is incomplete without checking Milner Gardens and Woodland. Ocean kayaking, hiking and spending time at the beach are some of the activities done here. For accommodation, there is nothing more wonderful than the Free Spirit Spheres. Here you will get the unique experience to stay in a tree house as there are three spherical suspended tree houses in the rainforest near Qualicum Beach. Other than this, you can also stay in Crown Mansion Boutique Hotel and Villas to have a breathtaking experience on your visit.

The wonderful compelling 50-acre estate called the Butchart Gardens has become a fascinating tourist point that offers magnificent flora and fauna along with night fireworks. Visiting these gardens will never disappoint you. If you want to buy some souvenirs for your near and dear ones then Vancouver Island’s retail malls will offer you with variety of gifts.

Best time to go to Vancouver Island

The island experiences the mildest climate in the country because of the warm Pacific Ocean currents. During the winter season, some parts stay conducive for skiing and snowboarding. May to September is the best time to visit and explore the region. Due to the majestic and divine beauty, lots of nature lovers are attracted to this Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island History

Vancouver Island, located off the Pacific coast of Canada, has a rich and diverse history. The island was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years before being explored by Spanish, British, and American expeditions in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

In 1843, the Hudson’s Bay Company established Fort Victoria, which became the capital of the Colony of Vancouver Island in 1849. The island was later united with mainland British Columbia in 1866 to form the colony of British Columbia, and in 1871, it became a province of Canada.

Throughout its history, Vancouver Island has been an important center for fishing, logging, mining, and agriculture. The island played a key role in the development of British Columbia and Canada and continues to be an important part of the country’s history and identity today.

Activity

Vancouver Island offers a wide range of activities for visitors and residents alike. Here are a few popular options:

1. Outdoor recreation: The island is home to many parks and natural areas, including Pacific Rim National Park, Strathcona Provincial Park, and the West Coast Trail, which offer opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
2. Beaches: Vancouver Island has many beautiful beaches, including Long Beach, Tofino, and Ucluelet, which are popular for surfing, beachcombing, and sea kayaking.
3. Adventure sports: The island is known for its excellent opportunities for adventure sports, including rock climbing, zip lining, and whitewater rafting.
4. Cultural experiences: Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Vancouver Island by visiting Indigenous cultural centers, museums, and heritage sites, such as the Royal British Columbia Museum and the First Nations Long House in Alert Bay.
5. Food and drink: Vancouver Island is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, artisanal cheeses, craft beers, and ciders, making it a popular destination for food and drink lovers.

These are just a few of the many activities available on Vancouver Island. Regardless of your interests, there is something for everyone on this beautiful and diverse island.