Thanks to Canada’s 150th-anniversary celebrations, U.S. tourists are now starting to take note of the spectacular offerings in the North. British Columbia (or BC) is no exception, with the majority of visitors flocking to its primary city of Vancouver.
As I found on a recent visit however, the greatest charms of the province are observed in its spots.
Secret Places to Visit in British Columbia
To find out more, I talked to local resident Sabrina Robson of all Destination British Columbia (the province’s tourism board) to discover her favorite little-known areas to visit in British Columbia.
The Sunshine Coast
This coastal retreat is a 40-minute ferry ride from Vancouver and is one of the best places to visit such as sailing, fishing, and kayaking. The inlets even have a white sandy beach located on Savary Island.
Port Renfrew
You’ll see this hidden gem two hours south of Victoria, on the west shore of Vancouver Island. Robson enjoys Port Renfrew for its essential BC attributes: “Think large trees, beautiful beaches, surfing, and friendly natives!” Similar to more better-known Tofino, Port Renfrew also has amazing storm.
Nelson
Located along Kootenay Lake and the Selkirk Mountains in BC’s southern interior, Nelson is known for its offerings. But Robson notes it also includes a trendy culinary scene, with more restaurants per capita than Manhattan.
Salt Spring Island
Tucked in between mainland BC and Vancouver Island, Salt Spring is home to mountain vistas, beaches, and trails that are forested. Here you can kayak, golf, hike, swim, and cycle in 1 day. Plus, do not miss the farmers’ market and coffee shops!
Osoyoos
Were you aware there’s a desert in Canada? Situated in the Okanagan Valleyfamous for its daring wine, Osoyoos is surrounded mountains, vineyards, and by desert. It is also one of the greatest places to visit in British Columbia with children; Osoyoos Lake is famous for its warm water, as well as beaches and plenty of water activities.
Haida Gwaii
This remote archipelago is an encounter that is off-the-grid. Come to learn about the Haida people, explore mossy rainforests, and become one with the sea. The island chain south of Alaska is about a two-hour flight from Vancouver. Often referred to as the “Canadian Galapagos,” the area is home to a range of wildlife, from orcas to puffins.
The Great Bear Rainforest
As its name suggests, the Great Bear Rainforest is one of the largest coastal rainforests on the planet and is home to some black bear species known as the Kermode (or “soul”) bear. This type of black bear has a recessive gene which gives it a white fur coat.
The Skeena Train
For an offbeat adventure, take a ride on “The Skeena”–a rail journey that travels between Prince Rupert at BC and Jasper in Alberta. You’ll find an opportunity to see mountain towns such as Smithers, which has a craft beer, songs, and arts landscape. The trip takes two days, with an overnight stop at Prince George. Book the Touring Class service for accessibility into this Panoramic Dome Car, with views that are jaw-dropping.
Squamish
Also called the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of Canada,” Squamish offers kiteboarding, hiking, backcountry skiing, and mountain biking. It’s only 45 minutes north of Vancouver, which makes it among the greatest places.
Fly-In Lodges
Based on Robinson, fly-in lodges are a BC experience that is true. The province offers “a strong collection [of luxury fly-in lodges], where you could be in the heart of the wilderness without undermining any conveniences,” says Robson. She recommends Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort, Sonora Resort, and Great Bear Lodge.
Don’t Miss This:
Natural Beauty Tour
The Natural Beauty Tour includes 9 stops including numerous sea level vistas that are gorgeous, across Victoria coastline. You will also see some of Victoria’s most beautiful parks, a gigantic Douglas Fir forest and the last stop is a mountain high with stunning 360 degree views of the city,. . .MORE
From $68.31
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