Whistler & Canada’s Pacific Coast Drive Vancouver to Vancouver
Day 1 Vancouver to Whistler (122 km/76 mi)
This morning depart Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. Highlights along the way include the cascading Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief Rock where climbers from all over the globe migrate to climb the granite cliffs. Arrive into Whistler by early afternoon.
Day 2 Whistler Exploring
This charming alpine resort is nestled between world-renowned Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Enjoy an extensive range of summer activities from golf on one of the 4 championship designer golf courses, water activities on any of the 5 lakes or numerous rivers, to mountain top dining. Or just relax and enjoy some of the many fine cafés and restaurants in this European inspired alpine village. Experience the beauty of Whistler Blackcomb’s alpine environment via the newly opened Peak Adventure on Whistler Mountain. Take the Whistler Gondola to Whistler Mountain’s sub-alpine and then rise to over 7,000 feet via Whistler’s premier open chairlift. At the top of the Peak Chair, guests will be treated to unbelievable views of glaciers, extinct volcanoes, snow-capped peaks and more. Gondola dates of operation: May – Sep, Summer dates are subject to change due to factors such as weather and snowpack, if Gondola is not operating a refund will be issued.
Day 3 Whistler to Tofino (303 km/189 mi + Ferry)
Return down the Sea to Sky highway to Horseshoe Bay and sail for 1 hr 45 min on BC Ferries (ferry toll included) to the Sunshine Coast. This scenic cruise takes you through fjord like waters with mountains blanketed with virgin forests and glaciated peaks. At Nanaimo head west to Tofino on the rugged West Coast. En-route, picture stops should be made at Cathedral Grove to enjoy the splendour of 800 year old Douglas fir and Cedar. Plus, the Mars Water-Bombers at Sproat Lake, the world’s two largest water-bombers used for the sole purpose of putting out forest fires. After the Mars Water-Bombers drive through the majestic Sutton Pass and the Sawtooth Range of the Cascade Mountains to arrive in Tofino around mid-afternoon.
Day 4 Tofino (Pacific Rim National Park)
You may wish to walk along the famed Long Beach, with its miles of pristine sandy beach and pounding surf, or explore the rain forests on a selection of well groomed trails. Mid-afternoon enjoy a 3 hour whale watch cruise (included) through the Clayoquot Sound, revealing sensational scenery, and wildlife such as Gray Whales, Sea Lions, Porpoises and Killer Whales. The area is also known for its variety of birds, including tufted puffins and resident bald eagles.
Day 5 Tofino to Victoria (313 km/195 mi)
Travel back to the East Coast of Vancouver Island and head south to Victoria. En-route stops should be made at the artist community of Chemainus, where you can admire the giant murals which adorn the exterior walls throughout the town and 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 northwest coast people (seasonal hours – admission not included).
Day 6 Victoria Exploring (Butchart Gardens)
Today is free to explore Victoria, with its turn of the century architecture, British traditions such as high tea and shops full of woollens and china. Admission is included to the Butchart Gardens with its 50 acre display of magnificent colour.
Day 7 Victoria to Vancouver (69 km/43 mi + Ferry)
Leaving Victoria drive north to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for a 90 min Ferry ride (ferry toll included) to Tsawwassen. From Tsawwassen continue on to downtown Vancouver where your Flexi drive ends.
Valid for travel from 1st May – 11th October 2014 & 2015.
Prices from AU$1200.00 per person twin share. Single supplement available on request.
Includes: 6 nights hotel accommodation twin share (room only), 7 day compact car rental inclusive of unlimited kilometres, CDW, Minimum 3rd Party Liability, 24 Hour Roadside Assistance, GPS, taxes and surcharges. Return BC Ferries tolls for vehicle & passengers between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, Gondola & Peak Chair Ride, Whale Watch Tour in Clayoquot Sound and admission to Butchart Gardens. Exclusive travel documentation package including personalized maps, itinerary and driving directions.
Not included: All meals (unless stated above), National Park Entrance Fees, Car Parking fees and gratuities.
