British Columbia's Mountains, Islands and Wild Coasts
Self Drive tour
Vancouver | Whistler | Rockwater Secret Cove | Salt Spring Island | Port Renfrew | Victoria
Vancouver, Whistler and Victoria are the names that everyone knows, but the treasures of British Columbia extend far into the quiet bays, peaceful shorelines and ancient forests of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. Immerse yourself in a taste of island life and culture. Resorts set on sparkling waters offer days on waves, and small communities accessible only by ferry connect you with a place like never before. Walk on deserted west coast beaches, dine on the freshest seafood and see BC’s very beautiful and very natural side.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2&3
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Day 4&5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9&10
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Day 11&12
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Day 13&14
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Day 15
Day 1 : UK - Vancouver
Arrive at Vancouver International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. The rest of the day is yours to create your own urban adventure amid the stores, parks, restaurants, theatres and other attractions of downtown Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2&3 : Vancouver
Vancouver is a city with myriad attractions. Blessed with a breathtaking location on the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by the Coast Mountains, it’s no wonder that outdoor adventures take centre stage here. Explore the forested trails on Stanley Park on foot or two wheels, walk the seawall or head out onto the water for epic whale watching adventures. It’s also a city of cultural diversity and the shopping and dining scene is second to none.
Day 4&5 : Vancouver to Whistler (125 km)
Collect your rental car today and depart for Whistler, a mountain village that attracts visitors year-round. Your drive takes you along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, traversing five distinct climatic zones from rainforest to semi-arid alpine forest, take time to stop at viewpoints along the way and soak in the view. The road also crosses the historic Pemberton Trail and Gold Rush Trail, used by prospectors in the 18th century. You have 2 nights in Whistler to enjoy the abundance of outdoor attractions.
Day 6 : Half Moon Bay, Sunshine Coast
Retrace your steps along the Sea to Sky Highway to Horseshoe Bay for the first of several ferry crossings. As you meander along the Sunshine Coast enjoy the pretty villages and beautiful views around you. Your destination is Rockwater Secret Cove, where you’ll have 2 nights to relax and explore.
Day 7 : Rockwater Secret Cove, Sunshine Coast
This delightful resort is one of the best kept secrets in BC and offers the chance to soak up the atmosphere and charm of the Sunshine Coast. Activities available include hiking and cycling trails through old growth cedar forests. The region also plays host to exceptional art galleries, museums and attractions. Your stay here is one of the unique Tenthouse Suites, tucked into the cliff and affording incredible views over the Strait of Georgia. These offer private decks, king size beds, jacuzzi baths and cosy fireplaces.
Day 8 : Courtenay
Enjoy a full day at leisure, the amenities of the resort enhancing your stay in this outdoor paradise. Relax on your private balcony, or perhaps walk the docks along the waterfront. The infinity pool and hot tubs entice all guests to relax, and canoe and kayak rentals (at additional cost, onsite) allow you to explore the local waterways. Overnight at Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina.
Day 9&10 : Salt Spring Island, Gulf Islands
The drive today takes you southward along the east coast of Victoria. Beautiful towns that celebrate their island lifestyles such as Parksville and Nanaimo offer the perfect place to stop for lunch and indulge in some local delicacies. If time permits, the murals at Chemainus are a draw for artists and visitors alike, depicting First Nations culture and the history of the area. Take the ferry from Crofton to Vesuvius on Salt Spring Island for a 2-night stay. Salt Spring Island is one of the Gulf Islands and known for it’s arts and crafts, incredible Sunday market in Ganges, which only sells items and produce made or grown on Salt Spring, and beautiful scenery.
Day 11&12 : Port Renfrew
Hop on the ferry back to Vancouver Island and head off the beaten track to the wild, west coast of the island and Port Renfrew. Sitting at the end of the exceptionally scenic West Coast Road, this little coastal town offers the quintessential west coast experience. Here you’ll find huge old growth trees, hiking, fishing, wild beaches and wildlife.
Day 13&14 : Victoria
It’s back to urban civilisation today as you make for Victoria. This elegant city is known for its Victorian architecture and spectacular Butchart Gardens. It’s a joy to explore and you’ll have 2 nights here to see it all.
Day 15 : Victoria – UK
The last ferry crossing of your adventure takes you back to Vancouver, where it all began. Return your car to the airport in time for your onward flight. Price includes international return flights from London, available from most UK airport on 13 May 2025.
