Board a BC Ferry in Horseshoe Bay, west of downtown Vancouver, for the 40-minute cruise through spectacular marine and mountain scenery, to Langdale and the Sunshine Coast. On arrival, stop in the nearby village of Gibsons to browse the shops and galleries. Head north, through spectacular ocean vistas and lush forest to Sechelt, the cultural centre of the Sunshine Coast. Learn about the Sechelt Nation at the House of Hewhiwus.
Overnight: Sechelt
Day2.
Sechelt to Powell River
This morning, drive north on Highway 101 through numerous picturesque resort communities, past glittering lakes and stands of ancient cedar. At Egmont, hike the forest trails to Skookumchuck Narrows with its boiling and bubbling rapids. A charter boat will take you up to Princess Louisa Inlet and the breathtaking Chatterbox Falls. At Earls Cove, board a BC Ferry for the 50-minute crossing to Saltery Bay and the upper Sunshine Coast. Continue to Powell River, "the Dive Capital of Canada." Overnight: Powell River
Day3.
Powell River to Parksville/Qualicum Beach
In the morning, explore and shop for carvings, pottery, jewelry and weaving. Board another BC Ferry bound for Courtenay/Comox on Vancouver Island. Play a round of golf or go beachcombing before heading south to the beach resort communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. Explore the Horne Lake caves, fish for trout or just relax on the promenade.
Overnight: Parksville/Qualicum Beach
Day4.
Parksville/Qualicum Beach to Victoria
Head south to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. On the way, stop at Chemainus to see the outdoor gallery of murals. In Victoria, spend the afternoon visiting Victoria's attractions and unique shopping. Overnight: Victoria
Day5.
Back to Vancouver
This morning, take Highway 17 north and turn off to Butchart Gardens, where you may wish to spend several hours exploring. Afterwards, take one of BC Ferries' frequent sailings from Swartz Bay back to Tsawwassen and Vancouver.
This pagerevised as of Apr 7, 2006 at 2:31 PM Pacific
