Days 1-4 – Bikes & Bays of Vancouver
As well as being the launchpad for Western Canada, Vancouver is a real highlight in itself. So, before heading off in search of whales, bears, lakes, and mountains, why not spend a few days discovering one of the world’s most liveable cities? Family fun can be found across the city, from the famous Stanley Park to Grouse Mountain and Granville Island. You’ll never be short of ways to entertain yourselves! We’ll organise a guided bike ride around the vast Stanley Park for all the family to take in the views from the seawall across to the bustling city.
Days 4-6 – Zipping through Whistler
After collecting your hire-car from Vancouver Airport, it’s a 2.5 hour drive along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. You’ll head up to the former Winter Olympic village of Whistler – a family-friendly adventure playground which fits perfectly into any trip to West Canada. You’ll be staying in a comfy hotel a short walk from the centre. During your time here, you’ll go on an exciting zip-trekking excursion through the snow-capped peaks and forests, before relaxing and exploring the charms of this famous Alpine village. If you need even more adventure, then bike hire, paddleboarding and hiking can all be arranged locally.
Days 6-8 – Treasure of the Fjords
From Whistler, you’ll drive 1.5 hours south to Horseshoe Bay and catch a 40 minute ferry over to Hopkins Landing/Langdale. It’s then a 1.5 hour drive to Earls Cove, before your second ferry over to Saltery Bay (approx 50 minutes). Finally, a 1 hour drive will take you to your accommodation in Lund. This is around 6 hours but you’ll be treated to some beautiful views and hopefully spot some orcas along the way!
With a shoreline boasting incredible natural scenery and plenty of outdoor activities both on water and on land, the Sunshine Coast is a small slice of paradise just waiting to be explored. You’ll stay in a historic waterfront hotel in the charming village of Lund, and during your stay you’ll kayak the pristine waters, snorkel in search of starfish, and embark on the most scenic treasure hunt of your lives!
Days 8-11 – In Search of the Bears
From Lund, you’ll drive 30 minutes south to get a ferry from Powell River to Comox (1.5 hours on the ferry). It’s then a drive of approximately 3.5 hours to your accomodation in Tofino or Ucluelet. This will be around 5.5 hours but the scenery is simply stunning!
It’s time to take a walk (or boat) on the wild side…The rugged, dramatic coastline of Vancouver Island is not only beautiful, but is home to an estimated 7,000 black bears! You’ll stay in the small town of Tofino or Ucluelet and during your visit, head out on the water to witness these incredible animals foraging in their natural habitat. Elsewhere, you can kayak, hike, surf, or unwind on remote beaches throughout the Pacific Rim National Park.
Days 11-14 – Whales of the Pacific
Next up, you’ll drive to Victoria, which takes around 4.5 hours. No family trip to Canada is complete without a spot of whale-watching, and Victoria is the perfect base to spot these gentle giants. On your first morning here, you’ll head out on a covered boat in search of these incredible creatures – with three different species moving around the coast, your chances of seeing them are as high as anywhere. The rest of your time in Victoria is free to enjoy the relaxed, friendly charms of the city. From Victoria, you’ll drive 30 minutes to Swartz Bay ahead of your 1.5 hour ferry crossing to Vancouver Tsawwassen. It’s then a 30-45 minute drive back to Vancouver where you’ll spend your final night in the city. The next day you’ll drive to the airport, drop off your car and head to departures for your international flight home.
Accommodation
