The province of British Columbia has become one of the most renowned areas in North America for a peaceful vacation retreat and one of the best places to travel in Canada. While it may not carry the weight of some major cities or coastal destinations as far as general popularity goes, it’s the sort of place people swear by once they’ve been. And over the last 10 or 20 years, it does seem to have attained more significant standing among the continent’s well-known vacation spots.
While British Columbia is known as a relaxing place, full of natural beauty and somewhat separated from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it will keep the vacationers that like to stay active plenty busy! Nature lovers’ will be in awe as they canoe, hike and ski across its majestic beauty while those who enjoy the night life will be able to party till the sun comes up with people from all over the world. The diversity of British Columbia will enthral you. No matter what type of travel you enjoy, British Columbia is the ideal retreat for your next vacation.
5 Must See British Columbia Travel Spots
1. Vancouver’s Irresistible Appeal
Yes, British Columbia is seen as something of a natural getaway, but the region’s biggest and densest city – Vancouver – is one of the best reasons to go. This sprawling seaside city is known for everything from its theatre scene, to its craft brews and bicycle paths, to the one-of-a-kind Stanley Park. In some respects it doesn’t feel like a big city to many people who visit, simply because its surroundings are so pretty and it’s been built up over the years with such a keen awareness of the value of nature. So, even if you’re going to British Columbia primarily to “get away from it all,” so to speak, a few days and nights in Vancouver can be incredibly lovely.
2. Wine Country
To experience the natural splendour of the area, there aren’t many better options than exploring wine country. You’ll have a few specific wineries to choose from around British Columbia, but the real highlight is the Okanagan Valley – described by Wine Folly as the most stunning place you’ve never heard of. Known to produce excellent wines in varieties that aren’t prevalent elsewhere in Canada, this valley surrounding Okanagan Lake is also about as picturesque as it gets. The lake, the mountains around it, and the vineyards themselves comprise a sort of 360-degree postcard image throughout the valley.
3. Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb is a more specific attraction, but undoubtedly deserves mention as one of the most renowned ski destinations in all of North America, if not the world. Comprised of the resort town of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain, the area has thousands of acres of ski slopes and parks, meaning there’s more than enough room for a fairly steady throng of tourists. It’s not hard to see why Whistler was one of the host venues for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. (The best ever I must say but then again, I’m Canadian and slightly biased.)
Ski conditions are spectacular for roughly half the year, though it should also be noted that this is still a beautiful area to stay in and explore during the summer, too. Especially if you aren’t a snow bunny.
4. Casino Tourism
Canada is known for online casinos as well as brick-and-mortar ones. The gambling laws allow for real-money gaming across most of the country, and whole collections of digital slot games, as well as poker tournaments and other table games, have been made available on the internet.
But while you are visiting British Columbia, why not check out some of the best casinos in Canada. Treasure Cove in Prince George, Cascades in Langley City, and Hard Rock in the Vancouver area are all nice options for travellers. There are some smaller casinos that are just for gaming, but these are full-fledged attractions complete with modern hotels, restaurants and bars, and various entertainment options. Whether you are looking for live action or a fun night out with friends, these fabulous casino’s are an ideal break from your daily exploration of the region’s nature.
5. National Parks
It’s been conveyed by this point that the natural beauty of British Columbia is one of the region’s great attributes, and naturally it’s shown off most effectively in the national parks. The best of these national parks – Yoho, Glacier, and Mount Revelstoke in particular – showcase an absolutely staggering array of natural wonders. There are towering mountain peaks, crystal-clear bodies of water, and lush forests that appear entirely untouched by human influence. Across all the parks you can enjoy opportunities to hike, camp, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, and of course observe fascinating wildlife.
No matter the season of your visit, you will be sure to find British Columbia the perfect travel retreat. It truly has something for everyone. Visit once and you will come back again and again.
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