South Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty of South Vancouver Island with a road trip from Victoria to Victoria! This 286 km journey takes you through Sooke, Lake Cowichan, Long Harbour, and Swartz Bay and is best enjoyed over 3 days.
The best time of year to take this road trip is during the summer, when you can take in the natural beauty of the area. The route is mostly well-maintained, but you should be aware of a few winding and narrow roads along the way.
This road trip offers an unforgettable experience, and is suitable for all drivers. However, you should plan on having a high budget to get the most out of the trip. From stunning coastlines to lush forests, you will be able to make memories that will last a lifetime!
3
number of days
286 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Victoria
Distance 286 km
Driving time 6.3 h
Pace: modest
74.4 kWh
Airports
YYJ
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YVR
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Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is the perfect starting point for a road trip along South Vancouver Island. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the city is known for its mild climate, picturesque harbor, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s historic sites or soak up the sun on its stunning beaches, Victoria has something for everyone.
Begin your journey at the Inner Harbour, where you’ll find the iconic British Columbia Parliament Buildings, the Empress Hotel, and the Royal BC Museum. Take time to explore the city’s heritage sites, including the iconic Craigdarroch Castle and the picturesque Government House. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful waterfront and take in the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the region offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Head to Thetis Lake Regional Park for a day of swimming and sunbathing, or explore the lush forests of Goldstream Provincial Park. If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Dallas Road waterfront.
The closest international airport to Victoria is Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Car rentals are also available at the airport, making it easy to explore the region at your own pace. No matter how you choose to explore Victoria, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on your South Vancouver Island Road Trip.
1
Victoria
- Sooke
Distance 40 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
10.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a fantastic road trip starting in Victoria, Canada and ending in Sooke? This 40 km journey will take you less than an hour, so you can take your time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
Start your trip in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, where you can find beautiful gardens, iconic landmarks, and a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Royal BC Museum, the Parliament Buildings, and the stunning Butchart Gardens.
Then, drive to Sooke, a charming coastal town with spectacular views of the Juan de Fuca Strait. Visit the Sooke Harbour House, a renowned restaurant and gallery, and the Sooke Region Museum, where you can learn about the area's history and culture. Enjoy the scenic views of the Sooke Hills and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Sooke - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Zillow
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2
Sooke
- Port Renfrew
Distance 70 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
20.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip between Sooke and Port Renfrew? This 70 km drive, taking less than 2 hours, will give you the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in Canada. The road is narrow in sections, so please pay attention when you drive, and don't forget to take in the stunning views along the way.
As you drive, make sure to visit the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, the spectacular French Beach, and the awe-inspiring Jordan River. In Port Renfrew, be sure to check out the San Juan Spruce, the world's largest Sitka Spruce tree, and the breathtaking Avatar Grove, where you can marvel at the giant red cedars.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Port Renfrew - Canada - North America - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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3
Port Renfrew
- Lake Cowichan
Distance 60 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: modest
15.7 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan! This 60 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be treated to some spectacular views and interesting stops along the way. The road is winding in some sections, so pay attention and take it slow. In other sections, the road is narrow, so be sure to watch for oncoming traffic. Enjoy the scenery as you pass through the forest and take in the views of the lake.
On your way, make sure to stop at Port Renfrew's Botanical Beach, where you can explore the tidepools and admire the rocky shoreline. Then, take a break at Lake Cowichan's Cowichan River Provincial Park, where you can go for a swim or a hike. For a unique experience, visit the Cowichan Valley Museum and Archives to learn about the area's history.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Lake Cowichan - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Lake Cowichan
- Long Harbour
Distance 55 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
14.2 kWh
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Lake Cowichan to Long Harbour? This 55 km journey will take you less than two hours, but it will be filled with breathtaking views and interesting places to explore. The road is narrow in some sections, so drive with caution.
Start your journey in Lake Cowichan, where you can find plenty of outdoor activities, such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking. Then, visit the Cowichan River Provincial Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank.
As you drive to Long Harbour, you will find several small towns and villages, where you can stop for a quick bite to eat or a souvenir. Be sure to visit the Chemainus Murals, which depict the history of the area.
Finally, you will arrive in Long Harbour, where you can explore the picturesque harbour and the nearby beaches. Here, you can also find some of the best seafood restaurants in the area.
Make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip!
Long Harbour - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Long Harbour
- Swartz Bay
Distance 29 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
6.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Long Harbour to Swartz Bay road trip! This 29 km journey takes less than two hours and is full of breathtaking views. As you make your way from Long Harbour to Swartz Bay, be sure to take in the scenic surroundings of the area. The ferry crossing awaits you at the end of this stage and is a great way to break up the journey. Along the way, there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy, so make sure to take your time and explore the area. Don't forget to take a few pictures to remember your trip! Once you arrive in Swartz Bay, you can find out more about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Swartz Bay - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Swartz Bay
- Victoria
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
8.4 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Are you ready for a scenic journey from Swartz Bay to Victoria? This 32 km drive will take you less than 1 hour and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Sidney, and Victoria.
In Sidney, make sure to visit the Sidney Pier, where you can take a stroll and enjoy the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, Haro Strait, and the Gulf Islands. The Sidney Museum is also a great place to visit for a dose of history and culture.
When you reach Victoria, you'll be amazed by the delightful sights and attractions. Don't miss the iconic Empress Hotel, the Royal BC Museum, and the beautiful Butchart Gardens.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Victoria - Canada - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Victoria
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Victoria, nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, is the perfect end to the South Vancouver Island Road Trip. As the capital of British Columbia, this vibrant city has plenty to offer.
For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of parks, beaches, and trails to explore. Visit Beacon Hill Park, a 200-acre oasis located right in the city, or take a hike up Mount Douglas for stunning views of the city and ocean. Spend the day strolling along the Inner Harbour and browse the many shops and restaurants. Don't miss the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel or the world-famous Butchart Gardens.
For a taste of culture, explore the Royal BC Museum, where you can experience the province's past through interactive displays and artifacts. Art lovers will find plenty of galleries, with pieces from local, national, and international artists.
Victoria is an easily accessible destination, with the Victoria International Airport (YYJ) just a short drive away. From there, visitors can explore the city and the surrounding areas with ease.
This charming city is the perfect end to the South Vancouver Island Road Trip. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and easy accessibility, Victoria is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Victoria - Canada - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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South Vancouver Island Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Victoria
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End:
Victoria
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Distance:
286 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
Victoria International Airport (YYJ),
Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a scenic journey that spans approximately 286 kilometers from Victoria, traversing the diverse and stunning landscapes of South Vancouver Island. This picturesque route takes you through charming locales such as Sooke, Lake Cowichan, Long Harbour, and Swartz Bay. Ideal for a leisurely 3-day Road Trip, this adventure offers a tapestry of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural experiences, promising an unforgettable voyage and a treasure trove of memories.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Sooke is renowned for its dramatic coastlines and lush rainforests. Don't miss the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, where unique geological formations create natural swimming holes in the Sooke River.
- Lake Cowichan is a haven for water enthusiasts, offering pristine waters for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, with the backdrop of the beautifully forested Cowichan Valley.
- Long Harbour is a tranquil spot on Salt Spring Island, perfect for leisurely walks, marina gazing, and spotting marine wildlife.
- Swartz Bay is not just a ferry terminal but a vantage point for extraordinary marine vistas. It serves as the portal to the enchanting Gulf Islands, each with its character and beauty.
Best Time to Go:
The summer months provide the ideal climate for exploring the great outdoors of South Vancouver Island, with long, sunny days perfect for hiking, water activities, and picnics amidst nature.
Potential Risks:
While the route is generally safe and well-maintained, drivers should remain vigilant for wildlife crossings and be cautious on curvy and potentially narrow Roads, especially during inclement weather or at dusk and dawn.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The South Vancouver Island region has a rich First Nations heritage, with many opportunities to learn about the local indigenous cultures through art, historical sites, and museums.
- The area is known for its food and wine scene, allowing travelers to indulge in local seafood, farm-to-table produce, and regional wines.
- South Vancouver Island boasts some of the mildest weather in Canada, making it an attractive destination year-round.
A good choice for:
This Road Trip is a stellar option for those who revel in the convergence of culture, nature, and adventure. It is accessible to all levels of drivers and can be tailored to various budgets. Whether seeking serenity by the water or thrills in the wilderness, South Vancouver Island's Road Trip offers a slice of Canadian paradise.
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