Bushbaby Travel: Inspiring travel for life
Jasper National Park, Credit Aleksei Potov, Shutterstock

Canada Self-Drive, Tots in Tow

A land of towering mountains, mighty rivers, ancient forests and turquoise lakes, Canada offers a magical blend of fascinating culture, captivating wildlife and an impressive range of outdoor pursuits. A trip to Vancouver Island is a must and whilst there are some limits on activities for children under 5, they will love the gondola trip up the mountainside or perhaps a whale-watching trip?

Jasper National Park, Credit Aleksei Potov, Shutterstock

Arrive into Vancouver, often regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Spend two nights here - time enough to enjoy the ocean-side location, Stanley Park and Granville Island - home to the largest free water park in North America (the boat ride is fun too!).

Next, we suggest you hire a car and set off for the ferry to Vancouver Island, before driving on to Victoria for 2 nights. The city combines old world charm with new world adventures such as whale-watching boat trips - ideal for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Enjoy exploring the inner harbour and make sure you stop at the excellent and child-friendly Royal BC Museum.

After your time in Victoria, drive north-west for approx. 5 hours through some stunning scenery until you reach Tofino in the windswept Pacific Rim National Park. With three nights here, you have time to take in wild beaches, home to giant rockpools and backed by ancient forests - a truly magical setting.

From there, drive approx. 3 hours east to Nanaimo, take the ferry back to Vancouver and head to Whistler (approx. 90 minutes away) for your final three nights. As well as canoeing you can take the Peak to Peak Gondola for some show-stopping views. Whistler itself is very well set up for younger travellers with pasta and icre-cream virtually on tap in the local restaurants and some great play areas too - always a hit!

Following your stay here, drive back to Vancouver, return your car and fly home.

recommended duration:
10-14 nights
pricing:
From £2,625 per adult and £650 per child under 12 sharing staying at 4 star hotels travelling in July / August on a Room Only Basis including flights from the UK and car hire.
call:
0845 1244455
email:
info@bushbaby.travel
map

suggested extensions

If a tropical beach to finish your Canadian adventure is a must-have, fly on to Hawaii for a relaxing week or head down to Florida.

recommended accommodation

  • Pool Daytime

    Fairmont Pacific Rim

    bushbaby rating:
    Five stars

    Sophisticated and cosmopolitan, yet casual and contemporary this latest addition to the Fairmont Hotel chain in Vancouver blends Asian and West Coast influences to offer a

    ...

    read more
  • Exterior

    Inn at Laurel Point

    bushbaby rating:
    Four stars

    Located on the peninsula jutting into Victoria’s inner harbour the Inn at Laurel Point offers guests prime viewing position for all the mesmerising comings and goings of this

    ...

    read more
  • Exterior

    Wickaninnish Inn

    bushbaby rating:
    Five stars

    If you like your hotels set amidst nature at its most beautiful and wild while you relax in utter luxury the Wickaninnish Inn is truly an experience not to be missed. Perched

    ...

    read more
  • Four Seasons Resort Exterior

    Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler

    bushbaby rating:
    Five stars

    Nestled at the foot of Whistler’s majestic Blackcomb mountain, this luxurious five star hotel and resort deftly marries rustic mountain charm with modern European elegance.

    ...

    read more
  • Veranda

    The Kahala Hotel and Resort, Honolulu

    bushbaby rating:
    Five stars

    The legendary and exclusive Kahala has hosted a bevy of Hollywood stars over the decades. It's quiet location, yet within easy access to the shopping make it an excellent

    ...

    read more

sign up for inspiration and special offers

follow us on social media