Vancouver Island Vacation Rentals
Vancouver Island, the largest island off of North America's west coast, is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and British Columbia's mainland. A mountain range called the Vancouver Island Ranges extends the length of the island creating a wet and rugged environment on the west coast and a drier, more even east coast. The island, lying in the temperate rainforest region of British Columbia, draws more and more tourists every year due to its stunning natural beauty. Vancouver Island is also home to British Columbia's capital: Victoria.
The nature of Vancouver Island is characterized by its extensive diversity. Experience lush forests, beautiful beaches, snow-capped mountain tops and alpine meadows covered with wildflowers all on the same island. The deep, green forests create a canopy over hiking trails and the clear rivers and serene lakes of the islands provide the perfect environment for fishing and other water sports. Overall, Vancouver Island is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
Due to the remarkable natural beauty of Vancouver Island, much of the island is conserved through Provincial Parks. Strathcona Provincial Park, located in the centre of the island, is one such park. This park contains some of the highest peaks of the Vancouver Island Ranges which have some of the only glaciers on the island. Comox Glacier, the largest glacier on Vancouver Island, is located in Strathcona Provincial Park. Della Falls, the tallest waterfall in Canada in terms of vertical height, is also located in the Provincial Park. This park is home to some of the loveliest hiking trails on the island.
Water surrounds and runs through Vancouver Island. The ocean and numerous lakes and rivers shape the beautiful island. Both locals and tourists alike take advantage of this feature of the islands geography with water sports. Swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, river rafting and water skiing are all very popular on Vancouver Island.
If you are a nature enthusiast and enjoy discovering and learning about different types of wildlife, Vancouver Island is the place for you. The Pacific Ocean is home to many marine mammals such as Orca Whales, Killer Whales, Dolphins and Sea Lions. Vancouver Island is said to be one of the best destinations in the world for whale watching. Various nature tours will take you through the forest where you will be able to view many different species of land mammals. Some land mammals include black bears, grizzlies, cougars, deer, elk and marmots. Vancouver Island is also said to be a birdwatchers paradise.
If you're not a wildlife enthusiast there are still plenty of reasons to visit Vancouver Island. The island is a prime destination to discover or practice your favourite water sports. A great family getaway is a camping trip and Vancouver Island has a number of beautiful, well kept campgrounds. Two popular campgrounds on the island are Miracle Beach Provincial Park and Sproat Lake. Vancouver Island also has many golf courses around Victoria, the Cowichan Valley and Qualicum Beach.
Vancouver Island is home to a number of beautiful towns and cities. Victoria, BC's capital, has something for everyone. Discover the Provincial Museum, endulge yourself with afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel or enjoy an opera at the Pacific Opera House. Shopping, fine dining, numerous art galleries, spas and outdoor adventures are just some of the attractions that Victoria offers. Tofino is a lovely little summer town on the located on the Pacific Coast of the island. Eat, shop, relax or discover the beautiful outdoors. Tofino is the perfect destination for surfing, sea kayaking and whale-watching.
Ultimately, Vancouer Island has something to offer everyone. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or you want to relax at the spa and enjoy some fine dining, the island can accommodate you.