Car Hire British Columbia - Mini guide to British Columbia

Canada’s southwestern province amazes visitors with its stunningly diverse natural scenery, exciting and vibrant cities, outstanding historic architecture and wondrous range of outdoor recreational activities, making it one of Canada’s prime tourist regions.

Vancouver is the capital and gateway to the province, and is the perfect base from which to explore the region. The city is located in a magnificent bay setting, with towering snow-capped peaks as a backdrop, and is famous for its warm, cosmopolitan atmosphere. There is plenty to do around town, with attractions such as world-class museums, galleries and orchestras. Just a ferry ride away lies Victoria, brimming with superb 19th century architecture, and magnificent Vancover Island, where outdoor activities such as whale-watching, sailing, hiking, horse-back riding, camping and fishing can all be enjoyed.

Winter sports enthusiasts can indulge in the delights of the Whistler – Blackcomb Resort, which is considered by many to be the world’s premier skiing destination. The slopes of both Mount Whistler and Mount Blackcomb feature a myriad of runs catering to all levels of ability and accessed directly from Whistler Village by numerous lifts and chairs.

To the east lies countryside ideal for exploration. Discover your own route through the picturesque farms, lakes and towns of the Okanagan Valley while travelling to the spectacular Glacier and Mount Revelstoke National Parks. Further east lie the magnificent Canadian Rockies and the beautiful national parks of Kootenay and Yoho.

North and northwest are remote and little-visited regions where you can truly discover unique gems of British Columbia. Wells Gray and Muncho Lake provincial parks offer some of the province’s most stunning natural scenery, while Queen Charlotte Island and Sound are famous for killer whales and wild, untamed wilderness.

All of the province’s major cities, towns and sightseeing areas feature first-class accommodation and quality restaurants. The nightlife scene varies from location to location, however you can count on there always being a few atmospheric bars, pubs and cafes in all but the most remote areas.

Vancouver International Airport serves direct flights from most US and Asian cities, while European visitors can transit via Toronto or Montreal. Shuttle services into the city are convenient and reliable.