The Ancient Wonders and Modern Joys of Vancouver Island

Tucked within refined cities and near ocean playgrounds, along quiet beaches and among old-growth forests, Vancouver Island vacation rentals offer a peaceful escape in a majestic, ancient setting. Perched at the western edge of Canada, this picturesque island is home to a landscape of mountains and forests, and impressive wildlife including sea otters, orcas, eagles and bears. Visit the polite city of Victoria, or go deep-sea fishing or ocean kayaking.

Getting Back to Nature in Vancouver Island Vacation Rentals

Many people choose Vancouver Island cottage rentals to get back to nature at its most glorious. Midway along Vancouver Island’s west coast, the town of Tofino is a haven of beauty in the heart of Clayoquot Sound. It is simply one of the most visually stunning places in North America. The beaches are wide and untouched, lined with towering pine forests and open to the roiling Pacific surf. Grey whales, orcas, sea otters and eagles come here to play, as do surfers and anyone mesmerized by the power of nature. In November many visitors come for the “storm tourism” to watch the beauty of the powerful storms that roll in off the Pacific Ocean,

Enjoy a Cool, Locally-Made Beer at the Vancouver Island Brewery

Another highlight of a visit to Vancouver Island is the chance to tour the very first craft brewery in the region. The Vancouver Island Brewery is located in Victoria and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how their fantastic beer is made, followed by a tasty sampling session. The brewery first opened in 1984, founded by a group of friends who wanted to create a natural beer. Soon it grew so large a new brewery had to be built. The Toronto Brewery produces a number of all-natural ales and lagers. Stop by and sample this fine beer for yourself!

Back to Basics at the Vancouver Island Music Fest

A highlight of Vancouver Island is one of the most interesting, entertaining and down-to-earth music celebrations on the West Coast. The Vancouver Island Music Fest is a volunteer-based festival which has been staged every summer in the Comox Valley for nearly 20 years. Forget the big corporate sponsors, flashy light shows and back-up dancers; this festival is about the basics of music. Hundreds of blues musicians, jazz singers and folk artists entertain thousands of music lovers who come from all over to take part.

Canada’s Wet and Wonderful Coast

In the winter, Vancouver Island visitors can take advantage of the mild West Coast climate for morning sailing and then afternoon skiing down the slopes of Mt. Washington. In the spring, summer and fall, you can spend your day whale watching and hiking, or exploring the fascinating Native history of this region.

Vancouver Island cottage rentals also open the door to the island’s picturesque interior. Hundreds of lakes and rivers offer canoeing, kayaking and even white-water rafting. There are also more than 50 golf courses on the island, set against a backdrop of forests and mountains, and the mild ocean climate means you can golf here year-round.

From the cool flavours of a locally-made beer, to the splendour of a whale breaching the surface of the Pacific, to the sweet smell of fresh air and the towering trees in an ancient forest, there is plenty to do and much natural wonder to explore on Vancouver Island.