Luxury Gulf Islands Walk, Bike & Kayak in Beautiful British Columbia 6D5N, Fully Guided

Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles),  Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)

Welcome to British Columbia! Our much-anticipated adventure falls underway in the laid-back town of Sidney, where we meet before hopping on a shuttle and ferry to Salt Spring Island, dubbed the “Crown jewel of the southern Gulf Islands.” —With its craggy coastlines and dense evergreen forests, this island is a slice of paradise. But it’s Salt Spring’s buzzing art scene that prompted The Washington Post to dub it “the coolest island in Canada.”

Our first stop is the Salt Spring Island Cheese Company. Lunch here is an experience in itself, featuring a spread of fresh, homemade, and surface-ripened cheeses that will excite your palates.

Post lunch, we venture on to Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park, one of the largest protected areas in the Gulf Islands. This afternoon's hike promises explosive views of Burgoyne Bay, Mount Maxwell, Baynes Peak, and Sansum Narrows

For the next two nights, we call Hastings House home, a Relais & Châteaux escape tucked away on 22 peaceful acres. The suites, housed in charming historic buildings like the Manor House and Post Cottage, blend timeless character with refined comfort. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant gardens, cozying up by the fire, or treating yourself at the award-winning spa (Spa treatments are at own expense).

As dusk falls, we gather for dinner overlooking Ganges Harbor, toasting to the adventures ahead. With fresh, seasonal fare—straight from the property’s gardens, no less—and a wine list that’s the envy of Western Canada, you’re in for a serious treat.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 29 km (18 miles),  Elevation gain: 305 m (1,000 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 53 km (33 miles),  Elevation gain: 610 m (2,000 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 74 km (46 miles),  Elevation gain: 853 m (2,800 ft)

Awaken to the flavours of a quiet breakfast in the enchanting veranda room of your hotel, where soft sunlight filters through the tree-lined views of the harbour, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. While you savour the calm morning, your trip leaders will have your bikes fitted with a brief talk on safety and technique. And then, the real adventure begins!

Hop on your bike and feel the fresh breeze as you pedal your way out from the idyllic Hastings House toward the north end of Salt Spring Island. This scenic route is nothing short of magical, designed to encapsulate the very soul of Salt Spring, weaving you through picturesque landscapes and rolling hills. Along the way, indulge in a cosy café stop, breathe in the salty ocean air as you gaze upon spellbinding seascapes, and lose yourself in the charm of artisan shops brimming with local treasures.

The journey continues with a stop for lunch at Salt Spring Wild Cider, a haven for cider lovers. Savour the distinct flavours of Canadian-style ciders brewed right on the island, with apples handpicked from the island’s bountiful orchards—boasting a staggering 350 varieties! Afterward, we'll saddle on for a mesmerising ride through tranquil rural scenes, gradually ascending towards the highest paved road on the island. The reward of this climb is nothing short of awe-inspiring—from the slopes of Mount Erskine, sweeping views sprawl to an almost endless horizon. Once we've had our fill of the arousing sight, we'll bask in the thrill of the descent, effortlessly pedalling back to the lively village of Ganges.

For those who would prefer a laid-back approach, the afternoon offers a chance to unwind and pamper yourself at the award-winning Hastings House Spa, where blissful treatments await. Or perhaps, a peaceful stroll through the hotel's fragrant rose gardens. And if you'd rather pursue your exertions outside the hotel's confines, the local art galleries in town offer an inspiring escape.

This evening, indulge in an authentic farm-to-table dining experience at a beloved spot in Ganges.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 31 km (19 miles),  Elevation gain: 335 m (1,100 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 50 km (31 miles),  Elevation gain: 488 m (1,600 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 63 km (39 miles),  Elevation gain: 610 m (2,000 ft)

Leap into the morning with a 45-minute ferry ride to Vancouver Island, accompanied by sweeping views of the coast and the salty sea breeze indulging your senses. Once we dock, we climb on our bikes, knitting through the northern stretch of the Saanich Peninsula Route.

On its course, pedal past charming seaside viewpoints, where the ocean sparkles in the sunlight, wind through peaceful forested hillsides, and admire the quaint cottages dotting the landscape. The rolling terrain offers a mix of gentle climbs and descents, eventually leading us to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, a stunning floral haven boasting over a million bedding plants in 900 vibrant varieties.

Right here at the heart of this botanical wonderland, we pause for a refreshing lunch, and after, you have free reign to wander through the colourful blooms, immersing in the garden’s beauty at your own pace. then, choose to either shuttle or take the two-wheels back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Our home base for the rest of the trip is the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, a luxurious oceanfront retreat that feels like an English manor perched on the Pacific’s edge. After settling into your elegant room, why not spoil yourself with a relaxing massage? Or, if you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, slip into one of the outdoor mineral pools and let the ocean views work their magic.

Tonight, we gather for dinner in the hotel’s dining room, where each dish is a celebration of the season’s freshest harvests, served with a dash of sophistication.

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles),  Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8 km (5 miles),  Elevation gain: 244 m (800 ft)

Start the day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, wrapped in the stillness of the tranquil bay. Soon, we whisk away through charming farmlands to the enchanting Saanich Peninsula. Our destination is the legendary Growlland Tod Provincial Park—a cherished relic of untouched greenery and one of Victoria’s last wild frontiers.

Here at the Park, we saunter through the tranquil forest, experiencing the bustling world fade away, leaving only the soothing rustle of leaves and rich, earthy aromas of the woods to fill your senses. Reach the summit of Jocelyn Hill, and take a moment to soak in the exhilarating views of the surrounding cedar forests, with Brentwood Bay stretching out like a jewel in the distance.

By noon, we enjoy a hearty lunch, before boarding a private zodiac for a wild and scenic odyssey along Vancouver Island’s stunning coastline. These nutrient-rich waters are a veritable Noah's Ark of marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic orcas, humpback and minke whales, playful seals, and the regal bald eagles soaring above.

Wrap up your day with a leisurely dinner in the hotel's dining room, where the sophisticated dishes are a love letter to the season’s freshest harvests.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 40 km (25 miles),  Elevation gain: 152 m (500 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 51 km (32 miles),  Elevation gain: 305 m (1,000 ft)

Arise with anticipation for today’s expedition. We embark on a ferry ride, crossing the Sannish inlet to Mill Bay, often hailed as Vancouver Island's most enchanting shortcut. Once on solid ground, we saddle on our bikes and set off through the idyllic Cowichan Valley, a famous wine region where sunny summers and mild winters nurture flourishing wines. With a growing number of award-winning wineries dotting the landscape, it’s no wonder some have dubbed this valley “Napa North.”

You can choose to take a direct route or meander around the serene Shawnigan Lake, known for its sparkling waters and tranquil surroundings. Either way, our destination is the delightful Blue Grouse Estate Winery, a charming winery nestled in the heart of Cowichan Valley. The estate boasts stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding hills, inviting you to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Here, you can refuel with a hearty lunch featuring local ingredients and sample the estate's exquisite wines, crafted with care and passion.

The afternoon is yours to savour as you please! Take full advantage of the hotel's wonderful amenities, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seaside paths, or explore the nearby marina for a kayak or paddleboard adventure (not included in the trip price).

As the sun sets, we raise a toast to our week of adventure and gather for a celebratory dinner, wrapping up a day filled with magic and memories.

Level 1, Approx. 5 km (3 miles)

Enjoy a final breakfast, before we trade wheels for walking shoes for an exciting foray in the heart of Victoria. With a local guide, we take a captivating stroll along the vibrant Inner Harbour, walking past talented street musicians and artists adding their flair to the city’s charm. Marvel at the grandeur of the Parliament Buildings and the iconic Empress Hotel as you scratch through stories of Victoria’s rich history and architectural heritage.

After a light lunch and a final farewell, shuttles will be ready to whisk you away to either the Oak Bay Beach Hotel for a relaxing extended stay or the Victoria Airport for your onward journey.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.