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, past stunning ocean vistas and through lush forests to Sechelt, the cultural centre of the Sunshine Coast. Learn about the Sechelt Nation at the House of Hewhiwus and enjoy the local attractions and activities. Overnight:Sechelt
Day 2.
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 breath taking 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
Day 3.
Powell River to Parksville & Qualicum Beach Area
In the morning, explore and shop for carvings, pottery, jewelery and weaving or explore the Powell River historic townsite with either a self-guided or guided tour of this remarkably preserved example of a logging town from the early 20th century. Westview, the most populated area of Powell River is also where you will catch a BC Ferry bound for Courtenay/Comox on Vancouver Island, or detour instead to beautiful Texada Island aboard another smaller ferry to Blubber Bay. Once you have arrived back on Vancouver Island continue your journey and enjoy the local history before heading south to the beach resort communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. Explore the Horne Lake caves, take a stroll along the beach or just relax on the promenade. Overnight:Parksville/Qualicum Beach
Day4.
Parksville & Qualicum to Vancouver via Nanaimo or Victoria
Head south towards Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. Depending on your schedule, stop at Chemainus to see the outdoor gallery of murals before returning to Nanaimo and departing via the Duke Point or Departure Bay ferry terminals back to the lower mainland. If time permits, continue your drive through the Cowichan Valley and Duncan to Victoria, spend the afternoon visiting Victoria's attractions and unique shopping before departing from the Swartz Bay Terminal on the Saanich Peninsula and back to Vancouver.
