Exploring one of the world’s most beautiful, natural regions is easy when it’s right in your backyard. The question is — do you take advantage of it?

It’s easy to forget how lucky we are to live in such a stunning province, with so much to see and do right at our fingertips. This is especially true for the B.C. born-and-raised folks out there. Do you remember the day you realized that some people grow up without the joys of mountains, forests, lakes and all four seasons?

Natural wonders aren’t all that B.C. has to offer. From friendly small town vibes to big city bustle, from world-class wineries to heavenly hole-in-the-wall cafes, each stop on the map has something special to offer.

THE SOUTHERN INTERIOR

As Canada’s only semi-desert, the southern B.C. Interior is known for its amazing growing conditions, impressive mountains and hot, dry summers. Summers are spent touring wineries, eating fresh, local fruit and relaxing at the beach, while winters are spent skiing and playing in the snow. Life is rough.

KELOWNACanada’s California aka #Kelownafornia

Why not start our tour right here, in NowMedia’s home? Where hiking trails and beaches are within walking distance, restaurants serve farm-fresh produce, wine touring is a common weekend activity, and you can ski and golf in the same day.

Grab a pint at one of the breweries in the fast-growing cultural district, and a bite to eat at one of the many tasty eateries throughout the city. Don’t be surprised if you hear people saying ‘want to hit up a patio?’.

READ: Dining, wining and exploring in Kelowna in the fall

CRANBROOKThe heart of the Kootenays

If you haven’t experienced the Kootenays yet, you’re missing out. Cranbrook makes the perfect hub, with so much to do right in town and just a short drive away.


Learn about the area’s rich history at the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel, visit the nearby heritage town of Fort Steele, snap some breathtaking view photos while hiking beautiful trails, and don’t forget to take a dip in a hot springs. The area is also well-known for its amazing skiing and boarding in the winter, and the comfort food options are unreal.

READ: Eating, relaxing and adventuring in the Kootenays

TRAILA small town with big character

Trail is another Kootenay gem, located in the western part of the region. Another charming and historic town, Trail is the perfect place for a relaxing escape. Visit the famous Columbia River, and enjoy world-class golfing, hiking, biking and winter sports among the mountains.

Also known as the Home of the Champions, Trail is known for the many exceptional people who were born and raised in the small town, especially when it comes to sports. Soak up some history at the Sports Hall of Memories and Home of Champions Monument.

THE COAST & LOWER MAINLAND

With one of the mildest climates in Canada, the Lower Mainland occupies southwestern British Columbia and is made up of two districts, Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. No matter what season, the Lower Mainland has breathtaking mountains and refreshing coastal views.

Summers are spent boating, hiking, mountain climbing, scuba diving and horseback riding. The surrounding mountains provide a variety of winter sports to experience such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, dog sledding and more.

VANCOUVERThe green city of diversity

This coastal city in the Lower Mainland is known for being one of the best places to live. With amazing views of beautiful mountains, the sparkling ocean and lush green spaces, you can always be in touch with nature amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy everything the ocean has to offer —  from sailing and boating to scuba diving and whale watching, you won’t be disappointed.

Vancouver is one of the most diverse cities in Canada. Stroll along Robson Street and visit Granville Island for amazing food and shopping options. At the end of July, Vancouver’s Celebration of Light will take your breath away three nights in a row. Three countries compete each year, you won’t want to miss it.

Just don’t forget your umbrella!

READ: Get into the holiday spirit in Vancouver

POWELL RIVERA natural wonderland

Located north of Vancouver along the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Powell River is nestled into the mountains on the ocean. This small, Lower Mainland city is quite isolated. Vehicles must take ferries to reach this gem and it can be accessed by air as well.

Canada’s longest hut-to-hut hiking trail, the Sunshine Coast Trail, was founded by the Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society. Hikers traveling through the 180km of backcountry terrain will be able to experience the surrounding old growth forests in the region that provide breathtaking peeks into the history of nature in the area. Coastal shorelines, sparkling lakes, winding creeks and awe inspiring mountaintops are just some of the experiences of the Sunshine Coast Trail.

BELLA BELLAA small port town ready to be explored

Located on Campbell Island, north of Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, Bella Bella, also known as Waglisla, is on a transportation route that links northern British Columbia and Alaska to the Lower Mainland. And, the name says it all — it’s beautiful!

This small community is home to the Heiltsuk First Nations. There are countless opportunities to explore the nature of British Columbia while experiencing the culture of the Heiltsuk First Nations. With the resumption of ferry services and an air link from Vancouver, Bella Bella has become more accessible to explore and experience.

BELLA COOLAA small community filled with nature

Located northwest of Vancouver on the mainland along Highway 20, the small town of Bella Coola offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to the tranquility of nature. Offering mild temperatures, you can reach it by ferry, by air or along Highway 20 from Williams Lake.


The Nuxalk people of the area have lived in Bella Coola since before European contact. The art and craftsmanship of the Nuxalk are displayed in museums around the world. There are countless opportunities to watch wildlife, take guided tours, hike beautiful trails, experience heli skiing and more.

THE ISLAND

Vancouver Island, located a short ferry ride west of Vancouver, is the largest island on the west coast of North America. The island has the warmest climate of Canada because of the Pacific Ocean. The ocean provides some of the feelings of the tropics without being overbearing for us Canadians, who are used to the chilly winters. With a variety of water sports, hiking, boating, surfing, mountain biking and more, you will always be busy on the island.

VICTORIAThe historical city of the island

Located on the most southeastern point of Vancouver Island, Victoria offers a unique Canadian experience. This island city is the oldest European city located on Vancouver Island and the mild climate allows plenty of parks and gardens throughout the city and the surrounding area for you to explore.

Victoria offers countless outdoor activities such as sailing, fishing, kayaking and whale watching. Exploring the heritage of the area will keep you busy for hours. Be sure to check out the Craigdarroch Castle built in the late 1800s to glimpse some of the Victorian history of British Columbia.

READ: Where to stay, eat and play in Victoria

 

TOFINOThe historical city of the island

Located west of Victoria, Tofino has kept its small town appeal, despite its popularity. The city is always on the move, embracing everything to do with outdoor activities. Tofino offers surfing, scuba diving, hiking, bird watching, fishing and whale watching.

READ: Everything you need to know about heading to Tofino

COMOXVancouver Island’s most fertile valley

Located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island northwest of Victoria, Comox is known for its fertile land and its fishing and logging industries. The city remained restricted by only boat access until roads and a railway were built during First World War, and is now also accessible by air. Comox prospered once the air base was built during the Second World War to protect the western coast of Canada.


When exploring Comox, go to the Comox Air Force Museum. The museum offers an insight to the contribution of Comox to the Canadian Air Force. Be sure to explore the amazing nature surrounding the area as well.

CAMPBELL RIVERThe salmon capital of Canada

This popular fishing and logging city is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, northeast of Tofino on Highway 19. With Elk Falls Park and Protected Area in the city, there is a large effort for sustaining the environment and using green energy in Campbell River.


The nature around Campbell River will take your breath away. From exploring crashing waterfalls to observing wildlife such as bears and eagles, there is always something for you to explore. An adventure waiting just outside your door.

PORT HARDYA town to explore nature to its fullest

Located on the northeastern end of Vancouver Island along Highway 19, this coastal city offers an abundance of activities to keep you busy. The North Coast Trail is right on the city’s doorstep for avid hikers. There are plenty of opportunities to explore nature by hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, surfing, saltwater rafting, flightseeing, fishing and camping.

In Port Hardy and the surrounding area, there are countless land, water and air activities. Due to the smaller population size, nature is everywhere. You will see and experience it wherever you go. You can’t go wrong.

MASSET, HAIDA GWAIIThe heart of Haida Gwaii

Located on the northern end of Graham Island, the largest island in the archipelago of Haida Gwaii, Masset is a small village that was a significant trading post during the maritime fur trading era.  

Today, there is a strong fishing and nature conservation community. In the surrounding area there are water sports, hiking trails, nature watching and more to keep you everything nature has to offer.

THE NORTH-CENTRAL INTERIOR

The central and northern B.C. Interiors are well connected and all of these destinations are part of the growing route map. These interiors are a nature-lover’s paradise. With breathtaking mountain ranges, crystal-clear glacial lakes and rivers, extinct volcanoes and an abundance of wildlife, the central and northern B.C. Interiors are just waiting to be explored. If you’re inner adventurer is seeking a vacation, you won’t want to miss out on everything that these regions have to offer.

ANAHIM LAKEA town by the volcano

Located west of Williams Lake along Highway 20, this small community is surrounded by nature near the Rainbow Range - an eight-million year old shield volcano. In the surrounding area the volcanic rock, rich in obsidian, provided the Chilcotin First Nations a valuable resource for trade and tool making.


Anahim Lake is known for the beauty of the surrounding nature. Once a major forestry town, it has diversified into everything nature. Be sure to head out into nature and explore the vast amount of wilderness. Safely of course. There are countless hiking, mountain climbing, walking and wildlife opportunities in the surrounding area.

WILLIAMS LAKEThe heart of the Cariboo

With easy access from by road and by air, Williams Lake offers beautiful views and nature experiences. Be sure to head to Scout Island - this nature centre is a popular place for locals to explore nature and forget their worries.

Annually, the Williams Lake Stampede on Canada Day is a must see event. Some of the action includes bull riding, barrel racing, bareback riding, chuckwagon races, steer wrestling and much more. If you’re inner nature lover or ranch hand is wanting a vacation, then head up to Williams Lake.

PRINCE GEORGEThe Northern Capital of British Columbia

Located north of Williams Lake along Highway 97, Prince George is the largest city in northern British Columbia. There are a variety of industries that are popular in the area such as forestry, oil refinery, brewery, mining, prospecting, dairy and much more. To discover more about the history of the indigenous peoples, the railway and the forestry, be sure to check out the museums in Prince George.


The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre strives to provide enlightenment about the local history and provide a hands-on scientific experience. The Prince George Railway and Forestry Museum gives visitors a deeper understanding about the impact that these two industries had on British Columbia.

If any of these beautiful locations are sparking your inner traveler, head over to Pacific Coastal Airlines’ website to see where you can adventure to next! Book a flight by February 28th, 2019 and receive 15% off all Bravo and Classic fares (applicable to base fare only, standard fare terms and conditions apply). Discount is valid on all routes to and from Kelowna. Use promo code KNYLW19 when booking. You must travel by June 30th, 2019 and blackout dates are April 18th, 19th & 20th, 2019 and May 16th, 17th & 20th, 2019.

 



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