British Columbia

I am proud to live, work and play in one of the most beautiful places on earth. British Columbia is a dream destination for lovers of the outdoors and adventurers at heart.

In 2022, British Columbia welcomed over 2.85 million tourists, a number that has been steadily rising annually. This Pacific province is not just a destination; it’s an experience that combines the grandeur of nature with the sophistication of modern living.

British Columbia, often abbreviated as BC, is a western province in Canada that promises an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. From the bustling cityscape of Vancouver to the tranquil vineyards of the Okanagan Valley, and from the rugged coastline of Tofino to the snow-capped peaks of Whistler, British Columbia offers a range of experiences that captivate the soul and invigorate the senses.

Capital of BC: Victoria

The capital of British Columbia, Victoria, is a charming city located on Vancouver Island. Victoria is not just a city; it’s a gateway to a different era. With its colonial architecture, lush gardens, and vibrant arts scene, Victoria offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture.

From the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel to the opulent British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Victoria exudes a timeless elegance that transports you to a bygone era. The city is a living museum, adorned with cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and ornate gardens.

Best Time to Visit BC

The best time to visit most of British Columbia is during the summer months, from May to September. Vancouver sparkles in the summer sunshine, allowing for beautiful days filled with hiking, biking, swimming, and boating.

However, when exploring BC in the winter months, you will discover many ski resorts located throughout the province. Whistler is home to one of North America’s best ski resorts and many other outdoor adventure opportunities.

Popular Regions of British Columbia

Vancouver Island

The mild climate, untouched nature, and magnificent coastlines of Vancouver Island make it a popular destination for tourists. Victoria, B.C.’s capital city, is joined by several medium-sized cities and numerous seaside hamlets to form the region.

Victoria, one of Canada’s most beautiful cities, has an English flavor and a long history as a British colony, yet it is also home to some of the country’s most magnificent ocean and mountain vistas. This cultural metropolis, with its thriving art scene, is also home to B.C.’s first natural and human history museum, which features exhibits on the history of Vancouver Island and its First Nations people.

Dine on fresh-off-the-boat seafood at the wharf, embark on a whale-watching excursion, take a ride in a romantic horse-drawn carriage and sip afternoon tea at the famous Fairmont Empress.

Pacific Rim National Park, one of Canada’s most beautiful national parks, as well as the fashionable beach resorts of Tofino and Ucluelet, are all on Vancouver Island’s west coast.

The beaches in the region are smooth, long, and sandy, making them ideal for surfing, beach combing, and peaceful reflection among breathtaking scenery. After you’ve eaten your fill of delicious fresh fish and locally brewed craft beer at one of the many eateries that specialize in just-caught seafood, go to one of the area’s numerous spots to watch a spectacular Tofino sunset.

Vancouver Island Posts:

Vancouver (Southwest Mainland)

Vancouver, British Columbia’s capital and largest city, is one of Canada’s most exciting cities, with a must-see list that includes everything from animal parks to performing arts. It is located between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains and is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, with a magnificent range of landscapes from sandy beaches to spectacular mountains as its backdrop.

Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and Hope are three small cities south of Vancouver with a combined population of more than 400,000 people. They are surrounded by the breathtakingly beautiful scenery of mountains, rivers, valleys, and lakes. The Fraser Valley is known for its wonderful wineries, fresh produce, and Fraser River salmon.

If there’s one place in British Columbia that everyone should visit, it’s Whistler. Located in the Coast Mountains north of Vancouver, Whistler is one of the world’s most popular ski resorts, and several events of the 2010 Olympics were held here.

Whistler is home to some of B.C.’s most spectacular scenery, with snowcapped peaks and ice-blue glacial lakes. This exhilarating mountain town is also an outdoor recreation paradise, where hikers, bikers, and kayakers can explore forests, rivers, and alpine meadows.

Vancouver Posts:

Thompson Okanagan (Interior)

The Thompson Okanagan is a beautiful region that includes the cities of Kelowna and Kamloops and the surrounding area. It is known for its world-class wine country, with dozens of vineyards and wineries open for tastings. The region also has a wide range of outdoor activities to offer, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and fishing.

Johnson Lake, known as the Caribbean of the north, is a wonderful place to spend a day swimming, fishing, and canoeing, while the world-famous ski resort of Sun Peaks is just a short drive away.

The Okanagan Valley is also home to several First Nations bands, who have been living in the area for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about their culture and traditions at museums and cultural centers in the region.

Vernon is home to the spectacular Sparkling Hill Resort, a Swarovski-owned spa resort that will truly take your breath away. The hiking in Kamloops offers endless summits with views out over the Thompson River and a thriving mountain biking scene with more trails being added every year.

Thompson Okanagan Posts:

Kootenays

The Kootenays are a mountainous region in southeastern British Columbia that offers outdoor enthusiasts a wide variety of activities, including skiing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and fishing. The area is also known for its arts and culture, with many small towns hosting festivals throughout the year.

The Kootenays is a picturesque area that includes the cities of Cranbrook, Nelson, and Castlegar. The region is known for its stunning lakes and rivers, as well as its excellent skiing and snowboarding.

The Kootenay Mountains are home to both Yoho and Kootenay national parks, which offer everything from icy rivers to steaming hot springs. You’ll be surrounded by towering rock walls, cascading waterfalls, and jagged mountain peaks that soar high into the sky.

One of the best Canadian all-inclusive dude ranches is located just outside of Cranbrook, the Kootenays largest city. Three Bars Guest Ranch is a spectacular destination that people from all over the world come to experience.

Revelstoke and Golden, two small towns in the beautiful Selkirk Mountains, are home to some of the best skiing in North America. Both places have fantastic terrain for beginners and advanced skiers alike, with glades that offer a challenge to even experienced skiers.

Kootenays Posts:

BC Wine Regions

British Columbia’s wine industry began over 160 years ago, with the first commercial winery opening in 1858.

Today, British Columbia has over 220 wineries and 320 vineyards that produce award-winning wine, as well as Icewine (a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine).

The Okanagan Valley is the province’s wine country, and it is home to some of the best wineries in Canada. The region has a Mediterranean-like climate that is perfect for grape-growing, and there are dozens of wineries open for tastings.

The Thompson Okanagan is also a wine region, with several vineyards and wineries located in the area. The region has a cooler climate than the Okanagan Valley, making it ideal for grape-growing.

The South Okanagan is home to some of the best winery restaurants in the region, such as Burrowing Owl and newcomer Phantom Creek. The Kelowna wine region offers some of the most instagrammable wineries like Mission Hill.