1 Week in British Columbia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Pacific Rim Adventure: Vancouver to Tofino

This popular road trip combines two days exploring Vancouver's urban scene with three days along the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim. Here, cozy up in a beachfront lodge and choose from a variety of outdoor activities, from sea kayaking to remote islands to explore the rainforest trails along the coast. In the evenings, head to some of the world-class local restaurants and breweries in the towns of Tofino and Ucluelet.  See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #2: Okanagan Valley Road Trip

One week gives you ample time to explore all the areas of the Okanagan. This route takes you through British Columbia's version of Napa Valley, where you can find countless local vineyards tucked along the valley backroads, not to mention great spots for local craft beer and cider. This is also the warmest region in the province, so be prepared for some hot weather, especially around Osoyoos in the southern Okanagan. Luckily, there are a number of beautiful lakes to go swimming as well as countless hiking and biking trails to work up an appetite.  See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #3: Sunshine Coast Getaway

The Sunshine Coast stretches over 100 miles (150 km) northwest of Vancouver and is reached by a short ferry ride from Vancouver or Vancouver Island. Here, you'll find laid-back coastal communities with great B&Bs, restaurants, and breweries as well as countless inlets, beaches, and forest groves to explore. Driving distances each day are short, which gives you ample time to head into the local hills or stop at pull outs to explore the beaches. Desolation Sound, at the far end of the Sunshine Coast, is famous for great sea kayaking.  See the full itinerary.  

Itinerary #4: Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip

If you're keen to combine two regions together for a unique contrast of landscapes and don't mind a faster-pace experience, you can combine the mountains around Whistler with the coastal rainforest of the Pacific Rim. First, follow the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler for a few days and then catch the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Vancouver Island, and head straight to the Pacific Rim. Here, relax in an ocean-front lodge or B&B before making your way back to Vancouver via Victoria. See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #5: British Columbia Circuit: Whistler, Shuswap, & Okanagan Valley

If you only have seven days and really are keen on seeing as much as possible, this route takes you on a circuit through three different regions of British Columbia. First, you'll head into the mountains and alpine lakes around Whistler, where you'll find great hiking and biking. From there, leave the mountains and descend through the dry and barren "Gold Rush' country before overnighting in a cabin or houseboat near the lakes of the Shuswap. Finally, end your trip with a few days enjoying the great wines, restaurants, and breweries of the Okanagan Valley, the province's famous wine region.  See the full itinerary.