Vancouver Island BC
The Vancouver Island region is a large, sparsely populated area, encompassing Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands as well as a portion of the mainland.
It has one of the world's most diverse ecosystems: rainforests, marshes, meadows, beaches, mountains, oceans, rivers and lakes create habitats for multitudes of wildlife species. In fact, the region is one of the world's premier locations for golf, whale watching, birding, as well as salmon and trout fishing.
Much of the island has been protected as parkland. It contains many pockets of old-growth fir and cedar forests, as well as rare, naturally occurring groves of Garry oak. Vancouver Island is bisected, north to south, by the Beaufort Mountain Range, which is home to one of Canada's biggest all-natural ski bases.
The beauty and tranquility of this region has long been a draw for artists and artisans. Galleries, studios and shops selling unique, locally produced arts and crafts are found in many population centres, particularly on the Gulf Islands.
Mountains, oceans, lakes, rivers and beaches this region boasts them in breathtaking abundance and beauty. The spectacular setting provides the venue for a vast array of outdoor adventures Cycle, hike, camp, kayak, sail, golf, ski and snowboard. Don't miss the West Coast Special: ski in the morning, sail in the afternoon!
Always a favoured destination for sophisticated travellers, the climate in Vancouver is mild and temperate, but the region's mountains are equally renowned for their epic snowfalls. So much so, the region has been chosen by the International Olympic Committee for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Venues for the Games will stretch from the cosmopolitan streets of Metro Vancouver to Whistler Village, a world-class ski resort. Awarding the Games is an honour that recognizes not just the physical capacity of the region to host them, but the international status of the city and its sophisticated amenities. Fine dining, sophisticated shopping, museums, galleries, parks and entertainment options abound - waiting to delight visitors of all ages and interests.
For More Information Visit BC Tourism Board