The Coastal Way Self-Drive (Tour code: 11679)

Travel from Vancouver to the picturesque city of Victoria. Cruise across Georgia Strait through the beautiful Gulf Islands with BC Ferries to Vancouver Island. Time to explore Victoria, with its turn-of-the-century architecture, and British traditions such as high tea and shops full of woolens and china.

Overnight in Victoria at Inn at Laurel Point

Vancouver | Credit: Albert Normandin

Today, you can personalise your day by pre-selecting one of three Freedom of Choice excursions below.

Overnight in Victoria at Inn at Laurel Point

Freedom of Choice Options

• Butchart Gardens Admission:

  On its 100th birthday in 2004, the Butchart Gardens was named a National Historic Site of Canada. Explore 22 hectares/55 acres of breathtaking gardens on the 53-hectare/130-acre estate.

OR

• Eat like a Canadian Food Tour:

  Not many people can define exactly what Canadian food is. From local ingredients to historic dishes, this tour is the best way to experience Canadian culinary culture. Sip and savour local cuisine, explore the iconic Inner Harbour, and meet the chefs and owners that make Victoria such an exciting culinary hot spot.

OR

• Whale Watch Cruise:

  Get up close with the killer whales on the Salish Sea with this guided, 3.5-hour whale-watching cruise from Victoria. Climb aboard a covered or open boat equipped with hydrophones to hear the whales and bring the underwater experience to light.

Credit: Butchart Gardens

Travelling north on the Island Highway, pass through Duncan, the “City of Totems”. If time permits, visit the Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village which provides you with an insight into the lives of the North West Coast People (seasonal hours - admission not included).

Further north is the artist community of Chemainus, where you can admire giant murals which adorn the exterior walls throughout the town. By late afternoon, arrive in Campbell River.

Overnight in Campbell River at Coast Discovery Inn
 

Wildlife in Campbell River

The diversity of wildlife and awe inspiring scenery that exists so close to Campbell River is unparalleled! The area has quickly become the most predictable place in the world to see the Bigg's or Transient, mammal-eating Orca! Pacific White-Sided Dolphins are common and can often be seen in large groups. Eagles and several varieties of seabirds are all sighted regularly.

Overnight in Campbell River at Coast Discovery Inn

Freedom of Choice Options

• People Water Land:

  Experience an authentic cultural and whale watching excursion through the Salish Sea to the historic Homalco First Nation village site of Aupe (Church House). Humpback and killer whales are abundant in the scenic waters along with other iconic marine wildlife. Walk onto the shores of Aupe with a Homalco guide to uncover its rich, complex history.

OR

• Salish Sea Whale Watching Cruise:

  Enjoy an unforgettable small group marine adventure to see whales (Qʷ̓ənɛs) with an experienced marine wildlife guide. These modern and comfortable boats ensure that you can safely explore the Salish Sea in search of humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, other marine mammals, and a variety of sea birds in their natural habitat.

Campbell River | Credit: Destination BC Boomer Jerritt

Today, continue your journey north. Near Port McNeil you may wish to take an optional Orca-watching cruise into the waters of Johnstone Strait. Your day ends in the fishing community of Port Hardy.

Overnight in Port Hardy at Quarterdeck Inn 

Port Hardy waterfront | Credit: Tourism Vancouver Island

Embark on a full day of cruising the sheltered waters of Canada’s Inside Passage with BC Ferries . During the length of the 15-hour crossing, a wonderful array of snow-capped mountains combined with rich forests provides a background for a series of dramatic fjords.

Overnight in Prince Rupert at Prestige Prince Rupert Hotel
 

Cow Bay Harbour Prince Rupert | Credit: Destination BC

Today, follow the Yellowhead Highway, hugging the Skeena River for most of the way. Pass through the mining town of Terrace and into Smithers.

Overnight in Smithers at Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge 

Terrace | Credit: Destination BC

Depart Smithers today, continuing along the Yellowhead Highway. Pass through Houston - known as the Steelhead Capital and home to the world’s biggest fly rod - over 18 metres in length! Next, you will travel through Burns Lake and Vanderhoof into Prince George.

Overnight in Prince George at Sandman Signature Hotel & Suites
 

Smithers

Today is another unforgettable day of scenery. Follow mountain passes and raging rivers as you wind your way to an overnight stop in Jasper.

Overnight in Jasper at Forest Park Hotel

Jasper National Park

Time to explore all that Jasper has to offer! Today, you can personalise your day by pre-selecting one of three Freedom of Choice excursions below.

Overnight in Jasper at Forest Park Hotel

Freedom of Choice Options

• Maligne Lake Cruise:

  Cruise Maligne Lake, where you can marvel at the magnificent shoreline and Spirit Island.

OR

• Jasper River Float:

  Enjoy a gentle rafting tour on the Athabasca River for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park.

OR

• Jasper Nature Walk:

  A guided nature walk featuring a spectacular array of rolling hills, jagged peaks, forests, meadows, marshes, streams, and stunning glacial lakes.

Maligne Lake | Credit: Pursuit Mike Seehagel

Today, travel through the spine of the Canadian Rockies along the amazing Icefields Parkway and encompass the ultimate glacier exploration. From walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer Ride, to standing on a glass platform almost one thousand feet in the air at the Glacier Skywalk, today’s experiences will leave you with a special appreciation for this treasured region of the Rockies.

Overnight in Banff at Banff Caribou Lodge

Glacier Skywalk | Credit: Pursuit

With easy access to pristine wilderness and endless outdoor adventures, in Banff National Park you feel truly immersed in nature. Today, you can personalise your day by pre-selecting one of four Freedom of Choice excursions below.

Overnight in Banff at Banff Caribou Lodge

Freedom of Choice Options

• Banff Gondola:

  Maximise your views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion on a round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain.

OR

• Lake Minnewanka Cruise:

  Admire views of the Canadian Rockies by boat as you cruise across the turquoise-hued Lake Minnewanka and over to Devil’s Gap.

OR

• River Explorer Canoe Tour:

  Enjoy the serenity of the Bow River and marvel at the surroundings. A fun and interactive way with your guide to explore the waterways of Banff National Park. Perfect for families. No paddling experience necessary.

OR

• Bow River Horseback Adventure:

  Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure.

Lake Minnewanka | Credit: Paul Zizka

Today, you will leave behind the fresh mountain air and colourful sights of the Rockies. Drop off your rental car at Calgary airport and start your journey home.