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Vancouver Island runs nearly the length of British Columbia's southern mainland creating a massive protective barrier from the mighty Pacific Ocean. Lying between, in the Strait of Georgia, are thousands of peaceful islands that run the distance of the scenic inside passage to Alaska.
Vancouver Island's main highway runs from Victoria at its southern tip to Port Hardy at its the northern tip, approximately 315 miles. Although the drive could be made in a day, it is not recommended as one would miss the opportunity to explore the pristine beauty of the island's wilderness and parks, the First Nation cultural centers and museums, and the charming coastal towns.
Pacific Rim National Park is made up of three regions that run along an 80 mile stretch of the Pacific Ocean coastline. The interior of the park offers hiking trails through old growth rainforests, while ideal whale-watching sites are placed along the coast. Long Beach supports avid surfers who delight in the crashing Pacific rollers that pound the beach, while tidal pools draw those who wish to view small marine life in their natural habitat. Broken Group Islands, an archipelago of some 100 islands and islets within the park, are popular with scuba divers and kayakers.
Aboriginal history here dates back some 8,000 years. Fascinating Aboriginal artifacts are displayed in the Port Hardy and Port Alberni museums. Nanaimo's Petroglyph Park features 1,000-year-old rock carvings of varying figures, from mystical creatures to human beings. The First Nation bands display totem pole exhibits up and down the coast, notably in Duncan, the City of Totems. Certain cultural centers throughout share their First Nation's heritage with tours and special events, ceremonies, salmon barbeques, canoeing excursions and a host of guided cultural tours.
The Gulf Islands, sister islands of the U.S. San Juan Islands, fall into three groups. The best known are the Southern Gulf Islands. They are accesses by ferry terminals in Sydney, and Swartz Bay near Victoria. Gabriola further up the coast is reached via the ferry terminal in Nanaimo, and the Discovery Islands via Campbell River's terminal. These serene islands enjoy a laid back atmosphere of bucolic, pastoral farms and small artsy communities. The more remote islands have spotty service, so plan your travels ahead, and call us at Destination Northwest where are happy to provide our suggestions and aid you with reservations. |
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