Everybody needs a getaway sometimes. It feels so great to unplug and reconnect with nature. Nothing can quite compare to waking up to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore, or crackling of a fireplace.
Vancouver Island has some of the most relaxing escapes on the planet, and we want to share the looove that we so clearly have for our beautiful hunk of land.
photo: vancouverislandbeyondvictoria.com
1.French Beach: After a beautiful drive along the Sooke highway, you will find yourself at the oasis that is French Beach. Here you have the option of camping at one of the 69 designated campsites (see https://secure.camis.com/Discovercamping/FrenchBeachProvincialPark for availability) which are RV accessible if needed. Take a short walk down to the beach and you will be floored by the incredible night sky. Here, you are too far away from town for light pollution and so you are greeted by a million shining stars. You can look out at the endless sea and, if you’re lucky, catch some bioluminescent action! Are you more into the glamping style vacation? Book your own cabin at Point-No-Point (http://pointnopointresort.com/) and enjoy the views from the luxury of your own private hottub.
photo: tofinopaddlesurf.com
2.Tofino: PM Trudeau loves it, NPH loves it, and guess what folks, we love it too! Tofino is an incredible space to disconnect from your hectic lives and really reconnect with each other. Driving into town you will see droves of people headed for the beach with their surf boards attached to the side of their bicycles – this is a beach town for sure. Wander down main street and take in the laid-back vibes of the locals. Try your hand at surfing, enjoy some whale watching, or venture out to the natural hot springs.
photo: lovinlakelife.com
3.Shawnigan Lake: Now this escape will take some advanced planning. Most lakefront properties on Shawnigan are privately owned, but check out Air BnB and you’ll be sure to find something that will be all your own for your time away. Shawnigan is the perfect place to enjoy classic summer lake activities (think rope swing, water skiing, and falling asleep on a floaty only to wake up 2 hours later in the middle of the lake looking like a lobster)! All of the best things from your childhood are here for you to enjoy.
photo: trekearth.com
4.Gabriola Island: Gabriola island is one of the hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest. With tons of interesting natural rock formations, and some seriously beautiful views, you will find yourself exploring all day every day. Gabriola is only a short ferry away from Nanaimo and the perfect spot to get away from it all. We highly recommend you check out the Malaspina Galleries, Brick Beach, and the view of Entrance Island Lighthouse (last time we saw whales!).
photo: taeleman.com
5.Salt Spring Island: One of the larger islands surrounding Vancouver Island, Salt Spring has a charm all its own. At the centre of the island is Saint Mary’s Lake, a calm and beautiful location loaded with cabins and sweet spots to stay. Rather stay in town? Never fear, downtown Salt Spring, AKA the Ganges has everything you need – a farmers market, delicious breakfast joints, and a bar with live music. Lose yourself in nature at any of the parks, wander up Mount Maxwell or trek up Mount Tuam to get a 360 View of Vancouver Island. Are you into craft beer? Salt Spring Ales is a must see while vacationing!
Do you have any summer escapes that help you to disconnect? Let us know @VictoriaHype on Facebook!
feature image: vancouverisland.travel