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Summary
This 5-day Vancouver Island road trip itinerary offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration. From the ancient forests of Cathedral Grove to the surf waves of Tofino and the charming city of Victoria, travelers will experience the diverse landscapes and activities that make Vancouver Island unique. Highlights include tasting the famous Nanaimo bar, surfing lessons in Tofino, Whale Watching in Victoria, and the breathtaking Butchart Gardens.
🌲 Day One: Arrival and Exploration
Day one is about arriving on Vancouver Island via ferry, indulging in the Nanaimo Bar Trail, and marveling at Cathedral Grove's ancient trees.
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🚢 Ferry to Vancouver Island
Enjoy the scenic 1.5-hour ferry crossing from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay, appreciating British Columbia's wilderness and the islands dotting the horizon.
Tips
Arrive early to enjoy the views and facilities on the ferry, and don't forget to capture the breathtaking scenery.
🏙 Nanaimo
Explore Nanaimo's downtown, characterized by its colorful buildings, and embark on the intriguing Nanaimo Bar Trail, offering 34 unique stops related to the famous dessert.
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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "14 BEST Things To Do In Nanaimo \ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udde6 British Columbia", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrxrFlwGb4c", "channel": { "name": "Travel More"}, "published_date": "Aug 21, 2023", "length": "6:31" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "WHAT to See & Do In NANAIMO, BC", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-tYuwpip7s", "channel": { "name": "Home A Roam"}, "published_date": "Aug 21, 2022", "length": "12:39" }</div>
Tips
Don't miss trying a traditional Nanaimo bar in its hometown, and take the time to wander through the Old City Quarter and visit the historic Bastion and the 12 o’clock gun.
🌳 Cathedral Grove
Walk among ancient Douglas Firs and cedars in MacMillan Provincial Park, some of which are over 800 years old, and marvel at the towering trees that stand sentinel in the forest.
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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Cathedral Grove (Old Growth Trail) | MacMillan Provincial ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMQxjhnT3sA", "channel": { "name": "VeeTravels"}, "published_date": "Mar 6, 2023", "length": "20:26" }</div>
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Tips
Both trails are easy walks, so take your time to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the forest and capture the awe-inspiring scenery.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 🌐 Website: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/macmillan/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 45 min |
| 📍 Address: BC-4, Nanaimo, BC V0R 1G0, Canada |
Day Two: Pacific Rim National Park
Explore the wild and beautiful Pacific Rim National Park, from surfing beaches to rainforest trails.
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Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
A vast area protecting forests, beaches, and ocean, perfect for adventure seekers.
Tips
Visit the Visitor Centres for maps and information on hiking trails.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +1 250-726-3500 |
| 🌐 Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: British Columbia, Canada |
🔗 Profiles:   |
Outside Break
A surfer's village with shops, food kiosks, and the original Tacofino.
Tips
Try the fish and chips at Wildside Grill.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +1 250-725-9453 |
| 📍 Address: 1180 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0, Canada |
🏄 Day Three: Surf and Explore Tofino
Experience Surfing in Tofino, explore the town, and if time allows, visit Hot Springs Cove.
🌊 Surfing in Tofino
Immerse yourself in the cold but exhilarating Pacific waters with a beginner surfing lesson in Tofino. The powerful waves and the stunning coastal backdrop make it an unforgettable experience for both beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Tips
When choosing a surf shop, consider Surf Sister for its exceptional model of teaching and supportive environment for beginners. The instructors at Surf Sister are dedicated to ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all levels of surfers.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +1 250-725-4456 |
| 🌐 Website: https://www.surfsister.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 625 Campbell St, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0, Canada |
🔗 Profiles:   |
🌋 Hot Springs Cove
Accessible only by a 1-1.5 hour boat ride from Tofino, Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park offers a remote and tranquil setting for a unique hot spring experience. The journey includes a 2km boardwalk hike, featuring picturesque views and the soothing reward of natural hot springs at the end.
Tips
Ensure to bring a dry bag to protect your belongings from the often wet conditions at the cove. Additionally, it's essential to bring your own freshwater, as there is no freshwater available on the remote island.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +1 250-725-2169 |
| 🌐 Website: https://bcparks.ca/maquinna-marine-park/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: Alberni-Clayoquot C, BC, Canada |
Day Four: Victoria and Whale Watching
Travel to Victoria to explore the city and embark on a memorable whale watching tour.
Whale Watching in Victoria
Experience the thrill of seeing majestic orcas and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Tips
Choose a tour operator committed to environmental conservation.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +1 250-384-8008 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.eaglewingtours.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC V8V 0B2, Canada |
| 🔗 Profiles: |
🌸 Day Five: Discover Victoria
Spend your final day exploring Victoria's landmarks, Chinatown, and the Butchart Gardens before heading back.
🌺 Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens, located about 30 minutes north of Victoria, is a National Historic Site of Canada. For over 100 years, these gardens are a treat to the eyes with a wide range of flowers and plants, offering a stunning collection of floral displays and gardens, truly a feast for the eyes.
Tips
Allow a few hours to fully enjoy the gardens. The variety of flora and the meticulous landscaping make it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll and to take in the beauty of nature.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +1 250-652-4422 |
| 🌐 Website: https://www.butchartgardens.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 2.5 hours |
| 📍 Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada |
🔗 Profiles:  |
