Canada, British Columbia: Vancouver Island Bike Tour
Six nights; seven days of biking on British Columbia's "Spirit Loop", following the finest coastal roads and an optional portion of the Cowichan Valley Trail.
“Truly unbelievable care and thought…you gave us a superb holiday with many cherished memories” – Joan H. & Richard van S.
WHY THIS TRIP?
- Beautiful mountain terrain meets attractive, rugged coastline, with lots of natural history. The views over the Juan de Fuca Strait and the snow-capped Olympic Mountains are awesome!
- Mild climate.
- Thriving arts community.
- Parks, lakes, and beaches. Hidden swimming holes.
- Small, charming inns.
- Some of the freshest halibut and salmon North America has to offer.
- Cowichan Valley wine region.
- Lake Cowichan – the Island’s secret.
- Hike to the Botanical Beach.
- Interesting towns: Sooke, Port Renfrew. Victoria.
- The island has been the homeland of indigenous peoples for thousands of years; abundant artistic, cultural, and historical monuments testify to the presence and influence of these cultures, and you will notice that many place names retain their indigenous origin.
- Butchart Gardens (top 10% of attractions in the world).
ROUTE EXPECTATIONS:
Click here to learn about our difficulty rating system.
You’ll be riding on a mix of paved roads and unpaved bike trails through rural towns. Some sections follow, optionally, the Galloping Goose Trail. There are some hills, and e-bikes are available.
Daily Distance:
- 1: Introductions & ~40km Loop Ride.
- 2: Victoria to Cowichan Bay ~43km.
- 3: Cowichan Valley Loop; ~40km.
- 4: Lake Cowichan to Port Renfrew ~60km.
- 5: Port Renfrew ~6km + hiking, and/or ~20km, optional activities.
- 6: Port Renfrew to Sooke ~75km.
- 7: Sooke to Victoria & Farewells ~45km.
(Click image to enlarge)
Activity Levels
The easiest routes we offer, these are generally flat and cover relatively relaxed distances. You will be comfortable riding a hybrid bike, walking in sneakers, or paddling a light kayak, and will normally have time to take many photos and enjoy extended lunches.
This is primarily an easy route, but some days may fall into the moderate category. You can expect time to stop and smell the roses, but some of the rides may be on more hilly terrain.
Requiring moderate fitness levels, these cover terrain with hills and valleys, and tend to include distances of 50-80km (30-50mi.)/day cycling, or 3-6 hours of walking per day. Most Freewheeling Adventures fall into this category, and are suitable for most ability levels.
This is primarily a moderate route, suitable for most ability levels, but some days may be a little more challenging. You can expect some long distances, and/or some big climbs/descents.
The most challenging trips, these include longer distances, bigger hills, long hikes, exposed paddling, and full days of activity. We recommend a higher degree of fitness and training to make the most of the experience.
There is also a rare double black diamond, reserved for only the most difficult adventures.
Start: Downtown Victoria, Inn at Laurel Point, or Abigails Hotel 11:00, day one. Please contact us to arrange alternate plans, if necessary. Optional pickups from Swartz Bay ferry terminal or Victoria (YYJ) airport available upon request; note: YYJ is located in Sidney, ~32km from downtown Victoria!
Finish: Downtown Victoria for 15:30; Victoria Airport for 16:00 or the Swartz Bay ferry terminal for 16:30 to catch the 17:00 departure to Vancouver. Day seven.
Meal inclusions: Listed for guided trips only, please see dates & pricing section for accurate inclusions per support level.
Please contact us to arrange alternate meeting and departure plans, if necessary.
DAY 1:
Introductions & ~40km Loop Ride.
Spend your day becoming familiar with your bikes while you explore the stunning capital of British Columbia. This loop begins in the downtown area, taking you through several parks, and alongside the Juan de Fuca Strait. Cyclists looking for a challenge will relish the opportunity to climb Mount Douglas, and will be rewarded with panoramic views of Victoria and the surrounding area. Beacon Hill Park also warrants extra time to explore its 200 acres of native flora and abundant wildlife. Ride past the Royal Victoria Yacht Club and the lush greens of the Victoria Golf Club to find the sandy beaches, with magnificent views of the straits and Trial Islands before arriving back at your luxurious lodging.
Meal Inclusions: Lunch, Dinner.
Abigail's Hotel, or Inn at Laurel Point, or optional upgrade to Fairmont Empress, Victoria.DAY 2:
Victoria to Cowichan Bay ~43km.
Follow bike pathways out of Victoria to Brentwood Bay. If time permits, stop at the magnificent Butchart Gardens, leaving in time to catch your scenic ferry to Mill Bay. Cycle north along the coast, into wine country, with optional stops for tastings as you ride to your lodging in the artistic seaside village of Cowichan Bay.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast.
OceanFront Suites at Cowichan Bay, or Dream Weaver Bed & Breakfast , Cowichan Bay.DAY 3:
Cowichan Valley Loop; ~40km.
From your inn, ride south back in the direction you came from yesterday to begin your loop ride through Cowichan Valley. You’ll ride past several farms and vineyards as you explore the valley and loop back to return to your hotel. This area has been called “Napa of the North” as it’s home to fourteen pretty spectacular wineries. Nine of which are easily accessible on today’s loop ride. This afternoon you will pass Blue Grouse Winery, which is one of the most recognized vineyards on the loop.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner.
Same lodging.DAY 4:
Lake Cowichan to Port Renfrew ~60km.
Start your day with a short 30 min van transfer to Lake Cowichan, deemed "Vancouver Island's best kept secret", before riding one of the most beautiful stretches of the week. This quiet winding road offers incredible mountain views, and you will see first-hand why Port Renfrew has a rich history in forestry and fishing. Enjoy an independent dinner in the community that is considered one of the best locations for salmon and halibut fishing in North America.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch.
Wild Renfrew, or Handsome Dan's, Port Renfrew.DAY 5:
Port Renfrew ~6km + hiking, and/or ~20km, optional activities.
Today presents several options; depending on your energy level and preference, you may include one or all of the suggested activities. Take a short ride south to the Botanical Beach for a gorgeous hiking experience, or cycle to Avatar Grove, a 50 hectare area of old growth forest famous for its mammoth cedar tree. Port Renfrew is known as the trailhead for both the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and the historic West Coast Trail. Upon returning to Port Renfrew, consider strolling the beach and enjoying the crashing waves or visiting the local pub to connect with locals.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch.
Same lodging.DAY 6:
Port Renfrew to Sooke ~75km.
Leave Port Renfrew as you cycle through Jordan River, a small settlement originally established as a logging camp that is now popular among surfers. Not surprisingly, today's destination, Sooke, is home to a vibrant arts community, well-known for its painters, potters, and writers. If time allows, consider a visit to the nearby Sooke Potholes Provincial Park.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Sooke Harbour House, or; Prestige Oceanfront Resort, Sooke.DAY 7:
Sooke to Victoria & Farewells ~45km.
Cycle out of Sooke, and along a portion of the Galloping Goose Trail today. This traffic-free rail trail is part of the Trans-Canada Trail, and leads you back into Victoria. A quiet alternate road will be an option for those preferring fully paved surfaces. If you have not spent a day or two enjoying the city before your tour, we recommend lingering in the province's capital. Known as "The Garden City," Victoria is home to many rare and native plant species, as well as an impressive number of historic buildings worth visiting.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch.
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
SELECT A DATE BELOW TO RESERVE, OR START A NEW DATE
2025 DATES:
2026 DATES:
Don't see what you want?
(Inclusions & pricing are listed below)
PRICING
Our tour costs are ALL IN, including fees & taxes.
Guided: US 4795 (per person, double occupancy)
Includes 7 days, 6 nights, 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners, luggage handling, full-time guide and vehicle support, maps and route instructions, hybrid bicycle rental, 5% sales tax.
Small groups or private tours, fully supported with drivers/guides and vehicles, all lodging and most meals included. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “What to Expect” page.
Self-Guided: US 4495 (per person, double occupancy)
Includes, 7 days, 6 nights, 6 breakfasts, inn to inn luggage transfers, essential transfers, maps, route instructions, hybrid bicycle rental, 5% sales tax.
Semi-supported, independent tours including welcome briefing, lodging, luggage transfers and necessary vehicle transfers. Choose from existing dates or request new departures. Read more on our “What to Expect” page.
Single Occupancy: Add US 1495
Tour cost excludes airfare and travel to and from the starting point, costs for activities listed as optional, bar and beverage bills, meals not shown as included, gratuities for your driver and/or guides.
Bike Rentals:
Hybrid: Included
Flat bars. Giant Escape or similar.
Upgrade to Gravel: US 135
Drop bars. Norco Search XR A2, or similar.
Upgrade to E-bike: US 270
Flat bars. Giant Roam E+ or similar.
All details and pricing are subject to change without notice.
Please see above for accurate pricing and inclusions, unless we have proposed a customized trip for you and those details are provided in your custom proposal.
1. Choose an advertised date to join a small group, or see our Join a Group page to see where groups are already forming.
2. Pick your own dates. We will confirm quickly, and are happy to talk with you as you make your choice. If you would like a private guided date, this usually comes at a surcharge depending on the details, please get in touch for more information. If you prefer self-guided, we usually only require two participants to initiate a new date at the advertised price, and can sometimes reduce prices for you if you have four or more.
BEST TIMES
The best time to enjoy this tour is June (early flowers), July & late-August (warm weather, whales, more people), September (cooler and quiet).
- Spring daytimes warm up to 10 to 20 °C (50 to 70 °F) by mid June.
- Summer, mid June to mid September, is normally 20 °C (70 °F).
- Autumn, mid September to mid October, daytimes 10 to 15 °C range (50 to 60 °F). Nights can be chilly.
GET TO THE START
Sidney is located on the Saanich Peninsula, at the southern end of Vancouver Island. As a gateway to the Island, the community of Sidney is just minutes away from the Victoria International Airport (YYJ), the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal and the Sidney-Anacortes Ferry Terminal.
The following websites provide information on taxi schedules, fares & bookings:
AFTER THE FINISH
Popular activities in Victoria include boating, water-skiing and sail-boarding in the summer, with hiking, mountain biking, wine tours and golf happening all year. The people of BC take their fun seriously - there is something available for everyone!
Following is a list of hotels we recommend in Sidney, near the Victoria Airport:
BEFORE AND AFTER
Places To Go and Things To Do
Vancouver Island is a very large, yet sparsely populated area which also includes the Gulf Islands and a position of the mainland.
It has one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, including Rainforests, marshes, meadows, oceanfront beaches, mountains, rivers and lakes. This creates a multitude of wildlife species. It is one of the world’s most premier locations for whale watching, bird watching, as well as salmon and trout fishing.
Much of the Island is protected parkland. It contains many pockets of old-growth fir and cedar forests, as well as rare, naturally occurring groves of Garry oak. Vancouver is bisected, north to south, by the Beaufort Mountain Range, which is home to one of Canada’s biggest all-natural ski bases.
The beauty and tranquility of this region has long been a draw for artists and artisans (most notably Emily Carr). Art galleries, studios and shops selling unique, locally produced arts and crafts are found in many population centres, particularly on the Gulf Islands.
For specific information about restaurants of your favour, gallery locations, parklands and adventure information, please refer to the Hello BC website for detailed information.
Rent a car in Victoria and explore other parts of Vancouver Island, its bigger than you think!
Drive to Nanaimo and take a ferry to the Sunshine Coast.
Visit the coastal community of Tofino for a surf or a lesson in stunt kites.
If you are into mountain biking, Vancouver Island is a top notch destination providing many options to suit any rider.
MORE READING
Known for its mild climate and thriving arts community, the coast of British Columbia’s Vancouver Island displays an eclectic mix of nature and rich history. The island has been the homeland of indigenous peoples for thousands of years; abundant artistic, cultural, and historical monuments testify to the presence and influence of these cultures, and you will notice that many place names retain their indigenous origin. Immerse yourself in seven days of beauty, from the majesty of the rugged coast, to the vast wildlife of the myriad parks, lakes, and beaches you will encounter as you travel along bike pathways and quiet roads. Hiking enthusiasts will relish the chance to explore sections of Salt Spring Island by foot, and Lake Cowichan provides an opportunity to paddle board, surf, or kayak. You will foray to hidden swimming holes, dine on some of the freshest halibut and salmon North American has to offer, and rest in charming inns at the end of each day.
Reading Recommendations for Vancouver Island
The following is a list of books by title and author that illustrate the region of British Columbia, and the history of Vancouver Island. Most are easily available through major book retailers; others will test your resourcefulness.
The West Beyond the West, A History of British Columbia • Jean Barman •
A fascinating history of the Canadian province from the 18th century to the mid-1990s. The author weaves portraits of major personalities and events into a readable overview of the cultural and social influences that have shaped the region.
The Last Wild Wolves, Ghosts of the Rain Forest • Ian McAllister • Chris Darimont •
Life among the wolves of British Columbia's coastal forest, one of the species last refuges. Ian McAllister has spent the last two decades photographing and studying two packs, one from a coastal island, and one from the interior.
National Audubon Society Field Guide to the Pacific Northwest • Peter Alden •
A compact photographic guide to the wildflowers, trees, mosses, butterflies, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals of the Pacific Northwest.
The Curve of Time • Muriel Wylie Blanchet •
When in 1927, at the age of 36, the author was left widowed with five children in remote Vancouver Island, her relatives counseled that she'd never manage on her own. But manage she did -- and she wrote this delightful book about the pleasures of exploring the coastal wilderness in a 25-foot boat. It's a funny, vivid account of the region, full of memorable detail on people and place.
The Pig War, The Most Perfect War in History • E.C. Coleman
With a plot to grace any comic opera, the 1859-1872 "Pig War" broke out when an American living on a quietly disputed small island in the Gulf of Georgia (present-day San Juan Island in Washington State) shot a British pig he found rooting up his garden produce. The authorities on nearby Vancouver Island and the military leadership of adjacent Washington Territory both felt they had good reasons to escalate a trivial incident into a full-blown war between the U.S. and Great Britain. Soon, American soldiers found themselves looking down the barrels of the Royal Navy's cannons. While both the British authorities and the Americans continued to threaten and bluster, the Royal Marines and their U.S. counterparts settled down to a round of social events, including sports days, combined dinners, and even summer balls. Despite the outbreak of the American Civil War, and British intervention on the Confederate side, it was decided that the problem should become one of the earliest examples of international arbitration. The German Kaiser was brought in--and came to the wrong decision. Set against the framework of U.S. attempts to gain control of the whole North American continent; this history is a highly readable account of a little-known episode in Anglo-American history
Totem Poles of the Pacific Northwest Coast • Edward Malin
This scholarly, inviting guide, featuring color and black-and-white photographs, is an excellent overview of coastal art of the Pacific Northwest from Tlingit in Alaska to Kwakiutl villages on Vancouver Island. A cultural anthropologist from Oregon, Malin has devoted his career to the art of the Pacific Northwest.
The Raven Steals the Light • Robert Bringhurst • Bill Reid (Illustrator) • Claude Levi-Strauss (Introduction)
A classic collection of 10 Haida myths and legends as presented by scholar Robert Bringhurst and the Vancouver artist Bill Reid (who also provides accompanying black and white etchings). These stories capture the storytelling traditions of the Haida.
Rocky Mountain Wildflowers • John J. Craighead. FIELD GUIDE
A Peterson guide to 590 species of wildflowers with both line drawings and a section of color photographs. Each species is thoroughly described with information on range and habitat, as well as "interesting facts." A classic first published in 1963, this book is a good choice for travelers from Northern Arizona and New Mexico to British Columbia. With a focus on family and genus, the book includes the most conspicuous and commonly encountered flowers.
The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America • David Sibley. FIELD GUIDE
A compact, geographically specific version of the Sibley Guide with all-new range maps, the same glorious illustrations and expanded, extremely valuable descriptions of each bird with status, habitat, range, voice and identifying marks. The book covers 703 species of birds occurring west of the Rockies, including Alaska, the western Canadian provinces, Baja California and portions of northern Mexico. Maps show the range throughout North America.
The Best Canadian Animal Stories • Muriel Whitaker. LITERATURE
A collection of animal stories by diverse Canadian authors, evocative of the landscapes and wildlife of Canada and suitable for young adults (or adult animal lovers).
Hatchet • Gary Paulsen. LITERATURE
In the first of Paulsen's popular wilderness adventure novels, 13-year-old Brian must fend for himself after his plane crashes in the Canadian woods. Though at first he's unfamiliar with Canadian plant and animal life, he soon learns what to eat and what to avoid -- and by book's end, he's a knowledgeable, ecologically aware outdoorsman. Teens and sophisticated pre-teens will enjoy it.
"The service is very personable, from the office to the guides. One has the feeling you really care!” – Andree B.
“Truly unbelievable care and thought…you gave us a superb holiday with many cherished memories” – Joan H. & Richard van S.
"Freewheeling is awesome and that is one of the reasons why this is our third trip with you and we are already looking at options for next year. I also tell everyone about your excellent service and the amazing trips that you provide." - Karen & Keith M.
"Honestly, I cannot say enough about how well we were tended to." – Eric G.
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