Make a pilgrimage to the aptly named Great Bear Rainforest, the last and largest intact temperate rainforest in the world. Search for grizzly bears and ultra-rare Kermode bears (also known as ‘spirit bears’). Explore it by private yacht or from a luxury lodge.

Bike your way through the lush Okanagan Valley, Canada’s only desert region and one of the country’s premier wine destinations. Pedal through the mountain landscape and stay at luxury lodges that line every turn.

Make your way inland to ski the ‘powder highway’ legendary in these parts. Ski at a resort, or head farther afield for heli-skiing and cat skiing. Unwind at day’s end in a hot spring, resting your head at a luxury lodge (or simple cabin) to suit your stay.

Spend a few days exploring the vibrant city of Vancouver, then escape to Vancouver Island. Magical Tofino marries mesmerizingly long beaches with old-growth temperate rainforests and oceanside small-town charm.

Explore the rarely-visited Haida Gwaii islands. Still rooted in the strong indigenous culture that is the history of this place, Haida Gwaii is also an art-lover’s delight. Explore it by sea or from a luxury wilderness resort.

These tiny pastoral islands have a laid-back vibe, extremely mild weather, and an idyllic atmosphere that truly lets you unwind (or bike to your heart’s content). Our top picks: Galiano and Salt Spring Island.

Aptly named for her past life as a tuna research vessel, now luxuriously outfitted for guests, you’ll cruise the waters of BC with Captain Colin and his welcoming crew. The Pacific Yellowfin accommodates a range of passengers, including family-friendly staterooms. View ship website »

Escape to the northern tip of Vancouver Island to Nimmo Bay, set in the Broughton Archipelago, an ideal place to observe mighty orca whales as they cruise the waters. Truly secluded and hardly touched, you’ll be in awe of the glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and waterfalls surrounding the resort--especially if you hop on a helicopter sightseeing tour. View hotel website »

A bit of English charm informs the Hastings House, a Relais & Chateaux property, with twenty-two acres of gardens and oceanfront land to captivate you. Set on rural Salt Spring Island, you can roam the grounds, relax at the Wellspring Spa, or take in the freshest farm-to-table dining at one of two on-site restaurants. View hotel website »

Unwind amongst nature on away-from-it-all Galiano Island, an artistic and natural haven brimming with the quintessential laid-back feeling of the West Coast. Stay oceanfront at the Galiano Inn & Spa amidst sandstone beaches and the magic of a temperate rainforest in your backyard, ideal for exploration. View hotel website »

There’s nothing better than an oceanview room, and at Long Beach Lodge, set right along the Pacific Ocean, is among the best views in Tofino. It’s excellent for family stays, with larger oceanfront cottages that give you access to the ocean at your doorstep. Visit Hotel Website