"The Vancouver Island region is a large, sparsely populated area,
encompassing Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, as well as a portion of
the mainland.
It has one of the world's most diverse ecosystems: Rainforests,
marshes, meadows, beaches, mountains, oceans, rivers and lakes create
habitats for multitudes of wildlife species. In fact, the region is one
of the world's premier locations for whale watching, birding, 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 Island 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. Art galleries, studios and shops selling unique,
locally produced arts and crafts are found in many population centres,
particularly on the Gulf Islands." -
Destination BC Corp.
