Holidays in British Columbia

British Columbia is a province of many contrasts. For most, Vancouver is the arrival point, and it’s fair to say the city was high on the list when Mother Nature was handing out her charms. This beautiful city sits on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, enveloped by snow-capped mountain peaks but in this urban environment you’ll find some of the world’s finest outdoor experiences. Explore Stanley Park, where you can walk or cycle the seawall, test your nerve on the Capilano Suspension Bridge just 15 minutes from downtown or head for natural attractions of Grouse Mountain. For foodies Vancouver is gastronomy-heaven. Head to Granville Island and explore the sensational Public Market, where you’ll find stall upon stall of the freshest local produce, artisan bakers and incredible seafood. Whilst in Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, you can indulge is some of the city’s finest restaurants. This is also where you’ll discover stylish boutiques, a thriving fashion scene and unique galleries. Robson Street is Vancouver’s best-known shopping precinct and stretches from Stanley Park to the BC Place Stadium.

Beyond Vancouver, British Columbia overflows with incredible natural attractions. Whistler, perhaps best known for its ski slopes is a blissful, summer adventure playground less than two hours from the city. Hop on a seaplane to Victoria on Vancouver Island and you’ll get a birds-eye view of the surrounding wilderness and likely spot a whale or two as well. For lovers of the great outdoors Vancouver Island takes some beating; the wilderness is quite literally on your doorstep. Explore the Pacific Rim National Park, home to wild beaches, superb hiking trails and a favoured haunt of storm watchers and enjoy some of the best bear viewing to be found anywhere in North America. Take to the calm waters and kayak with Orca’s or learn more of the First Nations heritage on Quadra Island. Further north seek out the elusive Spirit Bear in the Great Bear Rainforest or head to BC’s interior and embrace your inner cowboy (or girl) with a ranch stay. For wine lovers a visit to the Okanagan is a must, here you can hike and cycle through the rolling hills, sampling wine as you go – the perfect summer road trip.

Last but by no means least B.C is the starting point (or the end) to some epic rail journeys. Take a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer through the magnificent Rockies to Jasper or Banff or join ‘the Skeena’ a breath-taking two-day adventure between Jasper and Prince Rupert.