For all things health, fitness and the great outdoors, Victoria, BC on Vancouver Island should be your next destination. Not only is it the Cycling Capital of Canada, but a temperate climate means activities like running along the coast, golfing, kayaking, and hiking can be enjoyed year-round! Check out some of the sports and activities you can enjoy in the capital of B.C.
Hiking
With Vancouver Island possessing the Vancouver Island Mountain Range, there are endless hikes to enjoy on the Island, and even within and just outside of the city. From loping walks to stunning lookouts, to challenging summit trails, there’s a hike, or trail fit for any desire and fitness level. Plus, if you’re looking for a real challenge overnight, the Strathcona Provincial Park and its endless number of trails and hikes is just a few hours away.
Kayaking
Victoria BC is a top-rated kayaking destination and paddling all day in the swells can be a great, physical challenge. Whether you’re enjoying a kayaking tour in the harbour, or exploring Sidney or any of the surrounding area’s lakes, kayaking is a great way to spend the day outdoors and get some physical activity.
SUP Boarding
A relatively new activity that is quickly gaining popularity, SUP boarding is another ocean-based activity that will challenge your core, strengthen your shoulders and tire you out! Some companies will even bring the boards to you, so you don’t have to worry about strapping them onto your vehicle. For an even greater challenge, sign up to try out some SUP Yoga.
Fishing
Any true angler will want to give salmon fishing a go when visiting Vancouver Island. There are numerous charters in Victoria that will take you out to the ocean to give it a go. Reeling in a fighting chinook or Coho is a great experience and there’s nothing like spending a day on the ocean. For even better fishing and more of a challenge, you can head across the Island to Ucluelet, a world-class salmon and halibut fishing destination.
Golfing
With such a mild climate, many golf courses across Vancouver Island stay open year-round. This makes it a golfer’s paradise, as they can always find a place to hit some balls. Victoria itself has a couple nice courses, as does Cowichan Valley nearby. Nothing beats playing around of golf, except maybe playing a round of golf with an ocean or mountain view.
Surfing
Head outside of Victoria for about an hour, and you’ll reach Jordan River. Head a bit farther and you’ll find yourself at Sombrio Beach. Both are notorious South Island surf destinations that, during the winter, are a hotspot for locals of Jordan River, and nearby Victoria. Who knew that surfing could be so attainable, even from Victoria B.C.? If you’re into surfing and want to visit the Surf Capital of Canada, or are looking to surf in the summer, be sure to check out Tofino on the other side. While it’s about four hours from Victoria, it’s another incredible, Vancouver Island destination, and an outdoor lover’s paradise.
If Tofino sounds like more your style, you can find out more about it at www.Tofino-Info.com
For more about Victoria, check out the website www.victoriabc.ca
To find accommodation on Vancouver Island, www.accommodationvancouverisland.com is a great resource.