After last month’s Portuguese sunshine, we fly long haul to Vancouver Island, British Columbia this time. It’s a wonderful autumn destination, just across the Georgia Strait from Vancouver, the jewel on Canada’s West Coast...

Collect your car at Victoria International Airport (think Bristol Airport, 1980-size), then drive south to BC’s ever-so-British capital. Stay centrally, or west of the city at relaxing Birds of a Feather B&B on the shore of wildlife-rich Esquimalt Lagoon. Downtown is still an easy drive, as are the spectacular Butchart Gardens.

Head up the Trans-Canada Highway
If you’re lucky in autumn/fall, stopping at Goldstream Provincial Park as you head north on the Trans-Canada will reward with the spectacle of running salmon. Then cross the Malahat with its breathtaking views. In Chemainus, Willow Street Cafe is sublime before admiring the town’s famous murals. If you’re still hungry at seaside Parksville, the Rod & Gun Pub serves delicious Poutine – a Canadian must-try! Soon you reach chilled-out Qualicum Beach, a great base for exploring. Accommodation ranges from small motels (try the Lighthouse Motel) to the stylish Crown Mansion Boutique Hotel. Around town, waterfront strolls, whale sightings, and lovely Milner Gardens will delight. Or explore further afield; we recommend driving to Campbell River, visiting the maritime museum and returning via Comox and supper at the waterfront Blackfin Pub.

Bears, fish and chips in Port Alberni
Don’t miss Port Alberni and Tofino. Port Alberni is an hour’s drive west, over ‘the hump’ from Qualicum, past Cathedral Grove’s mighty first-growth trees. Stay downtown, or at Sproat Lake Landing or Stirling Shores Lodge on idyllic Sproat Lake. Visit the Stamp River’s trails, jumping salmon and foraging black bears too. Or stay in town and watch bears across the river from Victoria Quay. Then leave Bruin to his berries and feast on delicious fish and chips at Bare Bones...

Continuing west on the rollercoaster Pacific Rim Highway for two hours you reach Ucluelet, Long Beach and Tofino for whale watching, amazing coastal walks, stunning West Coast art and more seafood. Recommended!

You’ll want to return
When it’s time for home, Sidney, beside Victoria airport, is great for a last night after driving south. We loved the waterfront Sidney Pier Hotel and rustic Pier Bistro (try the chowder). It’s unbeatable for quality and value, and like Vancouver Island, sure to leave you planning a return visit...