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Immerse yourself in the tranquil island life of Vancouver and the Gulf Islands on this 6-day adventure from Salt Spring Island to Victoria. Hike and cycle along coastal paths, verdant fields, and lush cedar forests, soaking in breathtaking sea views and diverse wildlife on a private Zodiac cruise. Relish farm- and sea-to-table cuisine paired with fine wines, all while enjoying luxurious accommodations throughout your journey.
Your adventure begins in the charming town of Sidney with a scenic shuttle and ferry ride to Salt Spring Island. Explore the exciting trails of Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park, relishing panoramic views of Mount Maxwell and Sansum Narrows. Continue on two wheels through picturesque artisan villages, stopping at Salt Spring Wild Cider for a refreshing taste of local ciders. Experience the awe-inspiring Butchart Gardens with a ...
Your adventure begins in the charming town of Sidney with a scenic shuttle and ferry ride to Salt Spring Island. Explore the exciting trails of Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park, relishing panoramic views of Mount Maxwell and Sansum Narrows. Continue on two wheels through picturesque artisan villages, stopping at Salt Spring Wild Cider for a refreshing taste of local ciders. Experience the awe-inspiring Butchart Gardens with a vibrant floral display of blooming flowers, including over a million bedding plants in 900 dazzling varieties. Venture out on a scenic wildlife-watching zodiac voyage with chances to spot orcas and seals along Vancouver Island's stunning coast. Finish your experience with a delightful walking tour of Victoria, soaking in its rich history and vibrant culture before departing Victoria for your onward journey.
The package includes 5 nights' accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin-share basis. Meals and transport are included as specified. You will be escorted by two support vans and three tour leaders on each departure for an average of 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. Leaving you with multiple hiking and biking options to choose from each day accommodating varied activity levels and giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace. An experience tailored to suit your priorities and personal style; walk and bike in true comfort.
Escape the daily grind and embrace the serene charm of island life in British Columbia. Over 6 days, indulge in thrilling adventures and personalized experiences that cater to your every whim, allowing you to savor life from a blissful, intimate perspective.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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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.
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure and finish point is Victoria
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Victoria. The closest airport to Victoria, British Columbia, is Victoria International Airport (YYJ), located about 25 kilometers (15 miles) north of downtown Victoria on Vancouver Island.
Summers and autumns in the Gulf Islands are typically sunny and pleasant. Because it is sheltered by the Olympic Mountains, Victoria often escapes clouds and rain, offering some of British Columbia's finest weather. Keep in mind that while the climate tends to be relatively dry, West Coast weather is variable and rain is always possible. Bring quality rain gear, plus warm layers for mornings and for the ferry trips, as it can be chilly on the water.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-4.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
Next Generation Performance Road Bike:
(Included in trip price) Ideal for avid cyclists. Redesigned for 2024. Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels. Responsive, efficient and comfortable. Drop handlebars only.
Touring Bike
(Included in your trip price) Suited for a wide range of cyclists. Comfortable ergonomic seat. Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability. Upright handlebars only.
Electric Assist Bike
(Included in your trip price) One of the lightest e-bikes available. Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery. Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Upright handlebars only. Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.