If you’d like to feel like you’re on a non-stop holiday in a destination that is truly one-of-a-kind, then Vancouver Island might suit you well.
To Vancouver Island!
Located off Canada’s Pacific Coast, Vancouver Island is part of the British Columbian province. It is roughly the same size as Belgium. The island spans from the provincial capital of Victoria to the far-reaching beaches of Cape Scott Provincial Park. Most travel there by a quick flight or a scenic ferry.
We thought we’d highlight five reasons Vancouver Island is such an attractive prospect for those looking to make the move to Canada.
1. Extremely beautiful beaches
Chesterman Beach.
Recently, Lonely Planet picked the World’s Best Beaches for 2024. While The Pass in Byron Bay, Australia, topped the list – Canada was lucky enough to have two beaches on the list of twenty. In number 18, Stanhope Beach, Prince Edward National Park. But at number 6 is Chesterman Beach, Tofino on Vancouver Island. While the beach is brilliant for surfing, it’s also a great place for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, spying on the urchins that lurk in tide pools and even whale-watching. Other stand-out beaches include Long Beach, Cox Bay Beach and Sombrio Beach.
2. Grand golfing opportunities
If there’s nothing you’d like more than to spend days out on the golf course – rush to Vancouver Island. You can find relaxed, quiet courses, perfect for getting the hang of the sport, to award-winning courses, ideal for demonstrating how much of a pro you are. Some of the most celebrated courses include: Bear Mountain Golf Resort, Olympic View Golf Club (where Tiger Woods played), Fairwinds Golf Club and Crown Isle Golf Resort. One thing is for sure when golfing on Vancouver Island and that’s that spectacular views are a given.
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3. A warmer climate (in the southeast)
Do you adore Canada but find the chill a little too much to handle? The southeast coast of Vancouver Island enjoys one of the warmest climates and sunniest in all of Canada. It experiences over 2,000 hours of sunshine (approximately 500 more than the UK). Summers are warm with temperatures sometimes reaching the early 20s while winters can see snow but are generally milder than the rest of the country.
4. The great outdoors as your back garden
Elk Falls.
Pop your boots on and get walking. From leisurely strolls to getting lost on purpose through wonderful woodlands to pausing for a picnic by a waterfall, Vancouver Island offers plentiful options for hikers and cyclists. Luckily, it’s not all too strenuous either. There are lots of well-marked, simple trails that don’t miss the mark on being beautiful, such as the Kinsol Trestle Trail. While those thirsty for a waterfall should head to Elk Falls Trail. You’ll also find lots of walking groups, which can be a great way to make friends.
5. Relaxed atmosphere
Victoria, Vancouver Island.
Given Canadian’s international reputation for friendliness, it’s no surprise that they’ve charmed so many looking to emigrate. And that charm is (arguably) even more true of Vancouver Island. Even though its bigger than some countries, Vancouver Island maintains a friendly, laidback vibe. The capital city, Victoria, is much more comparable to a small English town than it would be Bristol or Manchester. With a life of sunshine, golfing, beaches, hikes, repeat – you might find yourself feeling that inner calm too.
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