Canada: British Columbia : with Banff amd Jasper national parks

Twenty-three times the size of Switzerland but with only two-thirds the population, British Columbia excels for all manner of outdoor activities, characterful towns, and First Nations culture amid stunning mountainous landscapes. With seven national parks—more than any other Canadian province—this exhilarating region offers remarkable opportunities for adventure and discovery, whether you're enjoying an extended holiday or passing through en route to Alaska. From immense hiking opportunities (including the Sunshine Coast Trail, Canada's longest hut-to-hut hike) and 38 ski resorts to world-class surfing in Tofino and stellar wildlife watching—where orcas are easily viewed from ferries, spirit bears roam the fjord-indented coast, and bald eagles winter in abundance—British Columbia delivers unforgettable experiences. Deepen your appreciation of indigenous cultures by exploring more than 200 individual First Nations with histories dating back millennia, and discover Vancouver's diverse, ever-evolving culinary scene, ranked the world's joint-seventh most liveable city. Written by vastly experienced guidebook writer Brendan Sainsbury, who has lived in British Columbia since 2004, this guide bottles the essence of the province, drawing out off-beat attractions and stories—from gold-rush history and First Nations sites to Whistler's art culture—alongside established places of interest. Deep local expertise enables detailed advice on a plethora of travel options alongside self-drive routes, offering everything you need for a rewarding, varied trip.