Gulf Islands Multi-Adventure Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+

Women's Adventures Women 18+

30s & 40s Adults 30-49

Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18)

Families with Teens & 20s Best for ages 16-23 (min. age 14)

Families with Kids & Teens Best for ages 7-17 (min. age 4)

6 days

5 nights

Activity Levels 1-3

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambience and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

Gulf Islands Multi-Adventure Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+

Women's Adventures Women 18+

30s & 40s Adults 30-49

Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18)

Families with Teens & 20s Best for ages 16-23 (min. age 14)

Families with Kids & Teens Best for ages 7-17 (min. age 4)

6 days

5 nights

Activity Levels 1-3

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambience and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2025: Jul-Sep2026: May-Sep

Salt Spring Island to Victoria in Beautiful British Columbia

Embrace the slow island life kept by artisans and farmers here in Vancouver and the Gulf Islands, where the pristine shores of Canada’s west coast invite you to take a beat from the everyday. Come hike and cycle coastal routes, verdant fields and lush cedar forests. Take in panoramic sea views and keep your eyes peeled for the incredible birdlife. Our upscale waterside hotels will be ready to welcome you to unwind in style.

... Read more
Bike
Walk/Hike
Wildlife Cruise

Highlights

  • Hike and cycle the stunning natural landscape of Canada's west coast, journeying through lovely coastland and bucolic island pastures
  • Savor farm- and sea-to-table dishes paired with exquisite wines from the fertile Cowichan Valley, Canada’s so-called “Napa North”
  • Explore the thriving artist community of Salt Spring Island, jewel of the southern Gulf Islands, and step through the world-renowned Butchart Gardens
  • Watch for porpoises, bald eagles and orcas as you observe the diverse wildlife on a private Zodiac cruise
  • Read More
Canada Gulf Islands Multi-Adventure Tour map

British Columbia

Start/End Victoria

Airports & Travel details*

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

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Itinerary

Woman sitting on a large boulder on top of a hill, looking down at the water

Days 1-2

Description

Begin in British Columbia’s historic Garden City and ferry to Salt Spring Island, "the coolest island in Canada" according to the Washington Post • Lunch at a local cheese company and taste their fantastic chèvre cheeses • Hike through lovely Ruckle Park and admire the tranquil views • Enjoy an undulating and scenic ride past island cottages, pristine beaches and lush farmland • Set a leisurely pace, stopping along the way at small boutique cideries, artisan studios and roadside produce stands • Explore unique art galleries and whimsical shops in the town of Ganges • Our Relais & Châteaux home welcomes you to 22 acres of beautiful land and colorful gardens. 

Accommodations
Hastings House

(2 nights)

Nights 1-2

Hastings House
Salt Spring Island
Premiere Hotel

This Sussex-style manor hotel is located on 22 acres with beautiful gardens overlooking the ocean and features tastefully furnished rooms. A Relais & Châteaux member. (spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Ocean with a few large rocks sticking out of the water

Days 3-6

Description

Ferry to Vancouver Island for a fantastic ride through Cowichan Valley • Soak up inspiring views of the Salish Sea on the way • A hike to the top of Jocelyn Hill yields lovely views of Brentwood Bay and the forests of Gowlland Tod Park Provincial Park • Unwind in an outdoor mineral pool with breathtaking oceanfront views at our seaside resort • Cruise what's known as Vancouver Island's Most Beautiful Shortcut aboard the Mill Bay ferry • Bike rolling country roads in bucolic Cowichan Valley • The mild microclimate here yields more sunny days than anywhere else in Canada • Visit the famous Butchart Gardens and explore its amazing floral wonderland, which has more than 900 varieties of plants • Enjoy the rich architectural heritage of Victoria • Look for whales during a private Zodiac cruise.

Accommodations

Nights 3-5

Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Victoria
Premiere Hotel

Overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca with views of Mount Baker, this elegant English Tudor-style hotel offers new-world charm, luxury and modern conveniences in the peaceful community of Oak Bay. (pool, spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

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What's Included

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Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

From $4,799 /person

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Hotels

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Nights 1-2

Hastings House
Salt Spring Island

Premiere Hotel

This Sussex-style manor hotel is located on 22 acres with beautiful gardens overlooking the ocean and features tastefully furnished rooms. A Relais & Châteaux member. (spa)

Nights 3-5

Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Victoria

Premiere Hotel

Overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca with views of Mount Baker, this elegant English Tudor-style hotel offers new-world charm, luxury and modern conveniences in the peaceful community of Oak Bay. (pool, spa)

From $4,799 /person

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Bikes

Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Bike with drop handlebars and a "New" label on the top left
Backroads Next Generation Performance Road Bike

Included in your trip price

  • Ideal for avid cyclists
  • Redesigned for 2024
  • Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
  • Responsive, efficient and comfortable
  • Drop handlebars only
Backroads Electric-Assist Bike
Backroads Electric-Assist Bike

Included in your trip price

  • One of the lightest e-bikes available
  • Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
  • Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting
  • Upright handlebars only
  • Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours;  learn more

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

From $4,799 /person

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Reviewed by 10 customers

A Life Changer

Submitted July 2019

By elizabeth

From Ohio

My first experience on BackRoads was a perspective shift that changed my view of travel. I will never go back to planning vacations on my own. Our Leaders were incredible, the meals and insider experiences excellent!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Exceeded expectation!!

Submitted July 2019

By Tracy

From Toronto, Canada

First trip with Backroads and first trip solo since the passing of my husband. I was welcomed into the group and had an absolutely fantastic time. Our leaders were wonderful, the equipment great, the routes challenging but manageable and the food exceptional. Will definitely be booking another trip.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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This is an INCREDIBLE TRIP!!! JUST GO !!!

Submitted July 2019

By OHIO

From Ohio

We had no idea what hidden gems are Vancouver Island, Victoria, Salt Spring and the Gulf Islands. Biking, hiking and kayaking with spectacular views and lovely activities, like a visit and dinner in beautiful Butchart Gardens. Visits to local artisans, a pottery, glassworks, cheese making, wineries—and the most delicious food and luxury hotels. Just DO IT‼️

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Excilirating trip with everything you need provided.

Submitted June 2019

By deanna

From Grand rapids

We had such a blast on our first backroad trip and plan on doing many more. Everything was taken care of for you, all the fun with none of the stress.

User submitted media

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Wonderful, even better than I expected

Submitted August 2018

By Sharon

From Tumwater, WA

The leaders were knowledgeable, fun, and just as excited about our trip as I was.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Enjoyed This Fantastic Trip

Submitted November 2017

By Kathy Slattengren

From Washington

My daughter and I enjoyed this fantastic trip with Backroads in August 2017. The trip leaders worked so well together and coordinated all the details beautifully. The picnic lunches they made were gorgeously laid out and filled with delicious local delicacies – yum! The leaders also made sure we had the opportunity to stop at a couple local wineries and a brewery. The scenery in the Gulf Islands was spectacular. There were plenty of biking and hiking options to meet everyone's needs. I especially liked biking to various artists' shops on Salt Spring Island. It was fun visiting with the artists and seeing their creations. This trip exceeded my expectations. I appreciated all the effort the leaders put into meeting everyone's needs. Backroads clearly has organizing trips like these down to a fine art!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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A Secret Escape

Submitted March 2017

By Miss L

From El Cerrito

Verified Buyer

Why, oh why are the Gulf Islands such a well-kept secret? Well, lucky for you that they are!! While the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound are top of many travelers' lists, the Gulf Islands keep flying under the radar. Since they're north of Seattle, the Gulf Islands may conjure images of rain and more rain, but in fact they are in a rain shadow! While I was there it was nothing but clear skies, quiet roads / bike paths and adorable little towns. Down to earth charm at every turn plus very elegant hotels and restaurants. My favorite: Hastings House -- I'll never forget the breakfast hamper delivered to my room (before the "real" breakfast). I recommend giving yourself a night or two in Victoria before or after the trip. It's a super walkable city with a lively vibe, cute boutiques and galleries.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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A Wonderful Experience for our Family of Adult Couples

Submitted March 2017

By Kate

From Charlotte, NC

Verified Buyer

My family has officially hit double digits on our count of Backroads trips, and this one was just as amazing as all of the rest. The rides and hikes were challenging but modified to fit our skill levels. The views were amazing, the food was spectacular. And, as always, the guides were the best we ever could have hoped for.

User submitted media 1 of 3
Beautiful view from lunch on day 1 of the trip
User submitted media 2 of 3
The feeling of accomplishment after climbing a 14 degree grade all the way up from the water
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Nothing more fun than biking to a delicious cider mill!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Fantastic Trip

Submitted March 2017

By Giocino

From Philadelphia, PA

Verified Buyer

Victoria, Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands Multisport Adventure Tour was nature packed with activities; a great mix of challenging physical and fun things. All the guides went the extra mile to make the vacation safe and enjoyable.

User submitted media
Kayaking at Salt Spring Island in the Montague Bay

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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A romantic and adventureous Vacation to beautiful Victoria

Submitted February 2017

By Antal

From Pinole, CA

Verified Buyer

In the summer of 2016 we went with Backroads on a bicycle trip. It surpassed all our expectations. All the bike rides led through beautiful locations to arrive at luxurious yet serene hotels. Our tour leaders were friendly and helpful to a fault. They were also very knowledgeable about the local and native cultures and were excellent hosts. This is what a typical day looked like: After an early breakfast we would set about on the bicycles provided for us by Backroads. After some hours of pedaling through bucolic landscapes our skillful leaders catered delicious lunches procured from local farmers. There were always colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables rounding out the cheeses and cold meats. After lunch and some rest we did more pedaling to our hotel destination, where we could mingle with the other guests, who were all very interesting people. Several of them were returning guests! Optional activities included sight seeing at local artist studios and beach combing. They even let us to borrow the bikes for a side trip to the Bu It was one of the most memorable trips I have ever taken.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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From $4,799 /person

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Dates & Prices

Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

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1 adult

1 room, 1 bed

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Want to learn more about this trip?

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Backroads provides flexible booking policies so that you can plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

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From $4,799 /person

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