Our Country, My Canada: British Columbia Bucket List

Canada’s westernmost province is a nature lover’s paradise. Edged in Pacific coastline and defined by major mountain ranges, travelers to this beautiful province can spend their time exploring dense rainforests, hiking and biking through national parks, skiing down the faces of towering mountains or watching the foamy surf curl around their ankles on the beach. It could take a lifetime to see and do everything this breathtaking region has to offer, so we have narrowed it down to the top 10 things to cross off your BC bucket list this year!

1. Sip your way across BC’s world-famous vineyards

The natural landscape of British Columbia is awe-inspiring, with jagged cliff faces, lush rainforests, and salty shores. Tucked between these rich expanses are dappled valleys, cradling vineyards that produce some of the world’s best wine. Explore these expansive family operations in three distinct valleys: Okanagan Valley to the southeast, Fraser Valley to the east of Vancouver and Cowichan Valley, north of Victoria. With such a diverse selection, every oenophile in your group is sure to find a new favorite flavor at one of the many tastings!

2. Swing through 18 holes of British Columbia beauty

Golfers will never have a dull moment in British Columbia. From the gorgeous landscapes of the north to the metropolitan courses of Vancouver, be sure to reserve a tee time at any number of fairways. The BC Golf Museum in Vancouver has four different golf courses fit for all levels of golfers. To the north, Dawson Creek Golf Club and others give you 18 holes with a view. Don’t miss the Okanagan Golf Club while visiting Kelowna. It is home to not one, but two championship golf courses! Even the most discerning golf enthusiast will enjoy their 36 holes in the beautiful landscape of Kelowna. Wherever you choose to visit, and whichever courses you play, be sure to keep that left arm straight, your head down, and swing smoothly.

3. Soar over Whistler

You may remember this ski resort from when it hosted the downhill ski events in the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, but this destination is a must-see all year round! Nestled at the foot of the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, outdoor activities abound, including hiking, biking and golfing, to name a few. While you’re there, be sure to try the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which joins the two mountains. It takes just 11 minutes but covers a record breaking 4.4 kilometers of breathtaking scenery.

4. Cross the Capilano River from 70 metres high

Describing itself as “naturally thrilling since 1889,” Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a very unique venue, the first of its kind in North America. In addition to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, the park also features seven footbridges suspended between Douglas Fir trees 30 metres above the forest floor. Nature trails, totem poles, rain forest ecotours and numerous exhibits will provide viewers ample things to see and do. Raining? Not a problem! Complimentary biodegradable ponchos are available on rainy days!

5. Spend a Day in the Best Park in the World

If you prefer something a little less rugged than your run-of-the-mill national park, try Stanley Park on for size! This picturesque oasis is Vancouver’s largest urban park, nestled amongst the cityscape. Beaches manifest into towering trees and majestic mountains across its 400 hectares. In addition to Canada’s largest aquarium, there’s plenty to see and do. Ride the Stanley Park Train, cycling through its many trails, grab a bite to eat, play tennis or spend a lovely day on the beach! Rated the Best Park in the World in 2014 by TripAdvisor, you won’t want to miss Stanley Park.

6. Explore the largest island on the Pacific Coast of North America

British Columbia’s capital, Victoria, can be found on Vancouver Island. This remote destination can be reached by a short flight or 1.5 hour ferry ride from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay. Outside of Victoria, the island has a myriad of intriguing towns set against a backdrop of stately mountains and sprawling coastline. Catch a wave all year round when visiting Pacific Rim National Park or paddle through one of the many inland lakes. Trust us, this picturesque island is well worth the travel time. Book a few days (or more) at a nearby Best Western, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore all Vancouver Island has to offer!

7. Stroll through hectares of flowers, plants and trees

When asked to conjure images of old quarries, a dazzling array of horticultural splendor is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Butchart Gardens, just outside of Victoria, “rocks” the boat in that regard. Over 20 hectares of what once was a quarry, this beautiful expanse of water features, themed gardens and seasonal displays make it feel like you’re walking through a postcard. In spring, the flowers are in full bloom, edging into a vibrant display of color in summer. Fall captures its own autumnal beauty, with changing leaves that will make you want to carve pumpkins and sip on cider. Whenever you visit Vancouver Island, make sure this gorgeous garden is on your must-see list!

8. Find your inner farmer in the Pacific Province

Agritourists, get excited over the farms, petting zoos, and farmers’ markets of northern British Columbia. Check out Blackspruce Farms in Prince George, and try your hand at daily farm activities like egg collecting, butter churning, honey extracting, and goat milking. Blackspruce also features a bustling petting farm, plus other activities like donkey rides and snowshoeing in the winter. Set in northwest British Columbia, Narnia Farms is a scenic homestead located in Smithers – set daytrip distance northeast of Terrace. The Narnia farmstead features natural body care products, organic foods, 100 percent beeswax candles, and plenty of lovable livestock. It’s plenty of fun for adults and kids alike!

9. Catch a glimpse of some nautical native residents

Many species of whales call BC home, including Orcas, humpback, minke, and Pacific grey whales. Whale-watching tours are the perfect way to witness these mighty mammals in their natural habitats. Customize your tour based on your port, time, or interests. Whether you spend a few hours on the sea in a high-speed Zodiac, commit a full day to the experience in a cruiser, or dedicate a week to a luxurious, historic sailboat adventure, it guarantees to be an experience you will never forget.

10. Witness scenic BC by car

The scenic beauty of BC is unmatched from the shores of Vancouver Island to the Okanagan Valley and beyond. Plan the ultimate road trip when you explore this gorgeous region by car! Interested in seeing Vancouver Island? Start in Sidney after hopping off the ferry or landing at Victoria International Airport. From there, travel south to Victoria, then on to Sooke, Duncan and Chemainus. Next, stop at Courtenay in the Comox Valley and work your way through Campbell River and Port Alberni, ending in beautiful Tofino. This drive tour will weave you across Vancouver Island with roughly 8.5 hours of drive time. Interested in seeing the BC interior? Climb from Osoyoos, found on the border with Washington, to Sicamus along the Okanagan Highway across 250 scenic kilometres. You’ll see such beautiful stops as Penticton, Kelowna and Vernon along the way in just 3.5 hours of drive time. Are the BC Rockies calling your name? Start in Valemount and cruise through such breathtaking destinations as Golden, Radium Hot Springs, Invermere and Cranbrook before ending in the southern city of Fernie after 11.5 hours of drive time. From wineries to winter recreation, you’ll score an unforgettable trip through western Canada thanks to the roads of British Columbia, and with so many great Best Western hotels along the way, you’ll always be well rested for another day on the road!