If you’re thinking about taking a trip to the islands, but aren’t particularly interested in heat and humidity, there are some exciting non-tropical-island getaways out there. With tens of thousands islands along the Western Coast of Canada, you can escape into the truly remote or take in adorable fishing villages. You have access to some of the best seafood in the world along with world-class museums and scenery. You can have it all when you travel to Vancouver Island.

Located off the coast of British Columbia, Vancouver is a rugged land that covers a wide array of vacation possibilities. During a stay on Vancouver Island you can enjoy skiing, wine country, overnight hiking, ferry boats, charming resorts and more.

Take in the harbor

Victoria’s harbor is legendary. This is an area where you can wander for hours and not run short of things to see or enjoy. Watch the fishing vessels come in with the daily catch or enjoy strolling among the scenic and brightly colored houseboats. Take a water taxi from the park to a fancy tea room before strolling along the waterfront shops. Along the harbor you can also find the Royal British Columbia Museum and the Parliament Buildings – two of the most impressive attractions on the island.Go outdoors

British Columbia generally and Vancouver Island specifically offer a great deal of outside adventure. The island offers a 620,000 acres, and very few of those are developed. You can find snow-capped peaks and stunning lakes at Strathcona Provincial Park or drive into Buttle Lake or Ralph River campgrounds to enjoy a few nights tent camping. If you are inclined to see the island’s beauty by foot, you can take on the 47-mile West Coast Trail through the bogs and old growth forests or just hike part of the trail to sample the best of what the island has to offer.Ski beside the ocean

In the colder months of the year, you can find snow skiing and other winter activities at the Mount Washington Alpine Resort. You will be surrounded by mountain peaks as well as the stunning, wide views of the Pacific. There is plenty of fresh snow on the mountain throughout the season and runs for beginners through advanced skiers. If you head to the island during the summer you can enjoy the downhill runs – and views – on a mountain bike instead.

Do a wine tour

You may not immediately think of wine and Canada, but there are no less than 100 different varieties of grapes being grown in British Columbia. Travel to Vancouver’s wine country and you can enjoy the same climate as northern France or Germany with wines that compete with the bigger names in the industry. Enjoy Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris or Ortega varies as you make your way through the Cowichan Valley. You’ll find more than just wineries along the way as this is also a popular location for farmer’s markets and honey stands.

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