Mountains, forest and above all, water, define the Vancouver Island landscape. It is, in a way, a land of giants: immense and ancient trees, snow-capped mountains and vast sweeps of ocean.
Join a whale-watching tour for the chance to see Orcas and Pacific grey whales, or head to the west coast in winter for dramatic storm watching.
Wildlife tours and bird-watching tours offer the chance to see some of the hundreds of species of birds, marine life, and mammals that live here year-round or stop here on annual migration routes.
Camping is a great way to explore the region's numerous parks, and anglers should head to Campbell River – the "Salmon Capital of the World." Try island hopping around the Gulf Islands, stop in at colourful gardens, and enjoy scenic driving routes.