Victoria And The Gulf Islands

April 9 - 16, 2008

Most people agree that Victoria BC is the most beautiful city in Canada but few are aware that right next door is a spectacular hiking destination - the Gulf Islands. Spring comes early to the cluster of islands between Vancouver Island and the mainland. Flowers bloom while Orcas frolic in local waters. The Islands offer heavenly beaches, lush evergreen forests, breathtaking views and a balmy climate.

We will experience the vitality and beauty of Victoria then island hop by BC Ferries to Salt Spring, Mayne, Pender and Galiano for moderate hikes including Mount Findlayson, Mount Maxwell, Ruckle Park, Galiano Mountain and breath taking Bodega Ridge.

But we do much more than hike. we take tea at Murchies, marvel at the unique Royal BC Museum, visit “Niagara Falls” at Goldstream Park, and shop for unique West Coast crafts.

Day 1 - Most participants will fly to Victoria Airport and take the shuttle bus to our designated hotel in the city.

Day 2 - The adventure begins with a full day to enjoy the many delights of Victoria. We start with a brisk hike up Mount Douglas to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. After a pub lunch we stroll around the Inner Harbour with stops at the superb Royal BC museum, Murchies Tea shop and (of course) Rogers Chocolates.

Day 3 - The next day we will drive “up island” to Goldstream park and either climb Mount Finlayson or tour the visitors centre with a side trip to a local attraction “Niagara Falls”. Afterwards we continue over the Malahat highway to the town of Duncan and take our first ferry trip - Crofton on Vancouver Island to Vesuvius on Salt Spring Island and drive to our hotel in the busy town of Ganges.

Day 4 - We start the day with a shopping trip to the fascinating Market in the Park in Ganges. This is reputed to be the best arts and crafts market in British Columbia so bring your wallets since it is impossible to leave without buying some of the locally made products. Later we climb Mount Maxwell (175 meters) for the magnificent view. The day ends with a traditional salmon BBQ. May we suggest a bottle of Sumac Ridge Chardonnay?

Day 5 - We hike a moderate 15 kilometers in Ruckle Provincial Park which has been described as the best hiking in the Gulf Islands. The trail follows the undulating shore line through groves of Arbutus and Gerry Oak. This is classic west coast flora and fauna as the shoreline is a popular nesting place for Bald Eagles and is frequented by Sea Otters and Seals so have your binoculars ready. The trail has many rest spots and some fine areas for lunch breaks.

Day 6 - We take the early ferry to Galiano Island via Pender and Mayne islands and hike Mount Galiano (300 meters). This is followed by lunch at the famous Hummingbird Pub. In the afternoon we can explore Bluffs Park before driving to our accommodation near Bodega Ridge.

Day 7 - We start with a hike along Bodega Ridge with great views over Trincomali Channel west to Salt Spring and several smaller Gulf Islands. The manzanita bushes along the edge of the ridge should be in bloom. We follow this with a stroll to Pebble Beach before returning to our cabins for a final dinner.

Day 8 - Up early to catch the ferry to Swartz Bay and Victoria Airport

Land cost for this trip is $1,248 plus 6 % GST from Victoria. This covers specified van transport, park fees, the fully guided program, accommodation in cabins or hotels (double occupancy with bath), all breakfasts and a salmon BBQ.

Although every effort will be made to adhere to the above program changes may be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances .

Request More Information About This Trip!