Two weeks to explore British Columbia
Explore the stunning landscapes of Whistler and Okanagan Valley, immerse yourself in the history and wildlife of Vancouver Island, and amp up your outdoor fitness. Family-friendly activities are included here, so bring the kids!
See the highlights of British Columbia in 14 days.
Set off on an awe-inspiring journey from Vancouver to Whistler along the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway. This scenic drive stretches along the coastline, then continues inland through an awesome mountain landscape. It's a short drive – only 1.5 hours – so you'll have time to stop in Squamish on the way.
Things to see and do in Squamish
- Catch the Sea to Sky Gondola and ascend to panoramic views of mountains, fiords and forests
- Visit Shannon Falls, one of Canada's highest waterfalls, located just south of Squamish.
- If you're fit, hike the Stawamus Chief (or part of it) to spot eagles and ascend to an incredible view
- An easier walk for eagle spotting is Eagle Run Trail, which starts at the end of Eagle Run Drive in south Brackendale
- Arrive in Whistler and get into the village vibe with an evening stroll to a local restaurant
- Rent a car
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Whistler is world famous for snow recreation, but it's also a spring and summer paradise. Embrace the thrill of outdoor exploration as you hike through lush forests, conquer exhilarating mountain biking and horse trekking trails, tee off on world-class golf courses or simply unwind by serene lakes. Bear viewing is another Whistler attraction you won't want to miss. If you're visiting Whistler in winter, Whistler Blackcomb has more than 200 marked ski runs spread across two mountains.
Things to see and do in Whistler
- Pack a picnic for a day of waterfall exploration and hiking at beautiful Brandywine Falls Provincial Park
- Organise a bear viewing trip with a naturalist to see wild black bears living their best lives
- Go kayaking or canoeing at Alta Lake. Self-guided or guided, it's an adventurous way to appreciate the dramatic mountain landscape
- Take a self-powered journey on the famous Whistler Valley Trail, 46km of paved trail for walking, running and biking
- Saddle up for a horseback trek along trails and across mountain meadows. Whether you're an experienced rider or a total beginner, there's a route that's right for you
- Iconic food experiences in Whistler include wild salmon, Dungeness crab and oysters (the coast is only 45 minutes away). Also look for poutine, French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy
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As you leave Whistler's mountain paradise, prepare to be captivated by the rugged beauty of the Coastal Mountain Range. Drive through winding canyons and past turquoise lakes, then witness the transition to the rolling hills of the Thompson Okanagan region. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – bears, deer, elk, bald eagles and coyotes.
Lunch stop options on the way to Kamloops:
- As you head north from Whistler, you'll pass through the town of Pemberton. Here Mile One Eating House is known for its delicious burgers
- Cache Creek is a small town located roughly halfway between Whistler and Kamloops. Horsting's Farm Market and Deli is a recommended choice for lunch. they offer a range of freshly-made sandwiches, soups, and salads
- About 40 kilometres north of Cache Creek, Hat Creek Ranch offers a glimpse into the region's ranching heritage. It also has a delightful restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining
Surrounded by soaring mountains, alpine lakes and expansive wilderness parks, Kamloops delivers the complete BC spring/summer experience – hiking, biking, fishing and golfing. If you're visiting in winter, it offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and ice skating. At any time of the year you can explore the city's rich Indigenous history, wine culture and delicious local cuisine.
Things to do in Kamloops
- Stretch your legs on the extensive trail network at Kenna Cartwright Park
- Try your luck at fly fishing on Thompson River
- Immerse yourself in Kamloops' rich heritage by visiting the Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park. Learn about the Indigenous culture and history of the Secwepemc people through exhibits, artefacts and interactive displays
- Call into local wineries to savour the region's aromatic whites and bold reds
- Take a leisurely stroll around BC Wildlife Park to observe black bears, cougars, wolves and birds of prey. Dedicated to conservation, this 43-hectare park is also a rehabilitation centre for orphaned and injured animals
- Tee off at one of Kamloops' top-notch golf courses. There are many courses in the area, including the world-class Tobiano Golf Course
- Relax and unwind at Riverside Park, a beautiful green space along the Thompson River
- Check out Kamloops' farm-to-table cuisine at Red Beard Café. Also try delicious Kamloops trout, which is usually grilled, panfried or smoked
The road trip from Kamloops to Kelowna is short and spectacular. As you leave Kamloops, the remarkable beauty of the Thompson Okanagan region unfolds before you. Drive through charming towns, rolling hills and pretty vineyards, transitioning into the bountiful orchards and sparkling lakes of the Okanagan Valley.
Things to do on the way to Kelowna
- Get acquainted with the region's history at O'Keefe Ranch. This authentic living museum attraction includes historic buildings, farm animals and picnic sites
- Take a break and revel in the beauty of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, loved for its turquoise waters and scenic hiking trails
- Stop for lunch at the Terrace Restaurant at Mission Hill Family Estate, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and a menu of contemporary and classic dishes, paired with Mission Hill's wines
An attractive city on the shores of Okanagan Lake, Kelowna offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history and a thriving culinary scene. Activities here can be urban or rural, depending on weather and energy levels. You can explore the vibrant downtown and cultural district or venture into Okanagan Valley for outdoor adventures. If you're here in winter, there's ice skating at Stuart Park and Big White Ski Resort is just an hour's drive away.
Things to do in and around Kelowna
- Dip into the region's art scene by catching an event at the Kelowna Cultural Centre, a hub for art exhibitions, theatre performances and cultural activities
- Visit Father Pandosy Mission on the outskirts of the city to discover a living museum with heritage buildings, beautiful grounds and lots of interesting stories
- Unleash your inner lumberjack with a session of axe throwing. Axe Monkeys in Kelowna have made this activity safe and huge fun for everyone
- The 50km Okanagan Rail Trail is a magical way to appreciate this gorgeous area of BC. Starting at the north end of Kalamalka Lake and ending in downtown Kelowna, it takes three to five hours by bike
- Discover the Okanagan Valley's flourishing craft beer industry. Visit local breweries, sample a variety of unique and flavourful beers, and learn about the art of brewing
- Enjoy wine tasting at Okanagan Valley wineries. The region produces a big range of wine types, including ice wine made with riesling, gewürztraminer and vidal blanc grapes
The drive to Harrison Hot Springs promises a bit of everything – vineyards and orchards, country towns, lush farmland, mountains, valleys and lakes. For a quick trip, travel via Merritt. To make a day of it, drive south to Osoyoos then west to Harrison Hot Springs.
Things to do on the way to Harrison Hot Springs
- The town of Osoyoos presents a different mix of scenery – along with the usual mountains and vineyards, it has semi-arid desert. At the Osoyoos Desert Centre you can learn about the animals, plants and geology that make this area of BC uniquet
- If you decide to travel via Merritt, time your arrival for lunch. This town is known for its Western-style and country-themed dining experiences. Check out Coldwater Hotel or drive 10 minutes out of town to Nana's Hitch'n Post
- Located near Hope, the Othello Tunnels are a series of old railway tunnels and bridges that have been converted into a scenic hiking trail. The tunnels cut through solid granite walls and offer stunning views of the Coquihalla River
- Before you get to Harrison Hot Springs, stop to take a look at Bridal Veil Falls – 60 metres of tumbling water and mist
Beautiful Harrison Hot Springs is a place for relaxing in hot pools and generally taking it easy. However, if you're fizzing with energy there are hiking trails, horse treks and boat trips to keep you busy. Who knows, maybe you'll spot a sasquatch out there!
Things to do at Harrison Hot Springs
- Get into naturally-heated hot water at Harrison Hot Springs Resort, Healing Springs Spa or at the public hot pools along the Harrison River
- Delve into the mysterious world of the legendary sasquatch at the Sasquatch Museum. Discover exhibits, artefacts and stories about the history, sightings and folklore surrounding this elusive creature
- Sasquatch Provincial Park offers several trails for hiking. One of the trails leads to a beaver pond; another trail loops around Deer Lake
- Harrison Eco Tours offer guided horse treks, kayak hire, bike hire and boat tours
- Visit local bakeries for delicious pies, tarts and other baked goods made with local fruits and berries
- The village at Harrison Hot Springs has charming shops and art galleries, as well as a great selection of cafés and restaurants. The coast is close, so you'll find plenty of fresh seafood on the menus
Getting to Victoria on Vancouver Island is going to take most of the day, but you can count on beautiful scenery all the way.
Things to see on the way to Victoria
- Admire the rolling hills and river scenery as you pass through rural communities like Chilliwack and Abbotsford
- Once you reach Highway 17, the road will take you along the coast, offering glimpses of the Strait of Georgia and the Gulf Islands
- • During the BC Ferries crossing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay , you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia. If the weather is clear, you'll also see islands and coastal mountains, and perhaps catch a glimpse of seals and dolphins
- After disembarking from the ferry at Swartz Bay, the drive towards Victoria will take you along Vancouver Island's coastline. Enjoy glimpses of scenic waterways, forests and Saanich Peninsula as you approach the city
- Once you've parked and checked in, take a leisurely stroll along the city seafront. Begin at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel and finish at Delta Ocean Pointe Resort
- Seafood is the hero of the cuisine scene. In the downtown area, check out Red Fish Blue Fish, Nautical Nellies or Ferris' Oyster Bar & Grill
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is known for its beauty, heritage architecture and vibrant personality. Its history has been shaped by the indigenous people who have inhabited the region for thousands of years, and the subsequent years of European exploration and settlement. You'll find an enthralling mix of old-world charm and contemporary hipster culture.
Things to see and do in Victoria
- Admire the iconic Parliament Buildings, which are open for guided tours seven days a week. Tours are free!
- Discover BC's rich history and culture at the Royal BC Museum, where captivating exhibits showcase the indigenous heritage, natural history and fascinating stories of the province
- Step back in time with a visit to Craigdarroch Castle, an exquisite Victorian-era mansion. Marvel at the architectural splendour and opulent interiors, then enjoy panoramic city views from the tower
- Escape into a horticultural wonderland at Butchart Gardens. Wander around stunning floral displays, serene ponds and enchanting themed gardens
- Find local artisans, farmers, butchers, bakers, cheese-makers, preservers, brewers, vintners, florists and restaurateurs at Victoria Public Market at the Hudson
- Take a leisurely stroll through Beacon Hill Park, an urban oasis offering lush gardens, meandering pathways and ocean views
- Discover the charm of Victoria's historic neighbourhoods, such as Bastion Square and Chinatown. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries and heritage buildings
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The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 289km driving loop around the southern part of Vancouver Island. It offers pristine coastlines, lush forest and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. While you could theoretically complete this route in a day, spreading it out over three days gives you plenty of time for exploring hiking trails, charming towns, beaches and historic sites. From Victoria you can do this route in either direction. The journey described below is clockwise.
Victoria to Sooke
- The Coast Trail in East Sooke Park follows the rocky shoreline along Juan de Fuca Strait. While the entire trail takes a day to walk, you can easily do a portion from the Aylard Farm area to Beechey Head, then return along a forest trail
- At Alldridge Point you'll see petroglyphs carved into the rock by the Coast Salish First Nations
- Once in Sooke, check out the local shops, galleries and restaurants along the boardwalk loop. Later on, take an evening walk on Whiffin Spit
Sooke to Port Renfrew
- Check out a couple of beaches on your way to Port Renfrew – choose from French Beach, Sandcut Beach, China Beach, Mystic Beach and Sombrio Beach
- Have lunch at Shirley Delicious Café, a five-star local eating experience
- See the Sheringham Point Lighthouse in Shirley
- Port Renfrew is an idyllic seaside community with a choice of restaurants, including Renny's Hwy 14 Ol' School Grub (a food truck) and Bridgemans West Coash Eatery down at the marina
Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan
- At nearby Fairy Lake there's a famous bonsai tree growing on a log in the lake
- Visit Avatar Grove to see some of Vancouver Island's oldest western red cedar and douglas fir giants
- Explore Lake Cowichan, a charming town for swimming, fishing and floating down the Cowichan River on a tube
- Discover the tasty menu at Jakes at the Lake
Wrap up your BC experience by driving to Swartz Bay to catch the ferry back to Vancouver. Depending on your ferry booking, you might have time to check out Duncan, known as the 'City of Totems'. The 40+ totem poles are located on the traditional lands of the Quw'utsun' (Cowichan) people.
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