Canadas westernmost province, which stretches from the thousands of islands and inlets on the Pacific west coast, to the Rocky and Columbia mountain ranges in the east, is renown for its spectacular mountain and coastal scenery. British Columbia is 60 per cent forested (much of it temperate rainforest), 75 per cent of the province is mountainous, and the northern two-thirds is largely unpopulated and wild. Many species of wild life that have become scarce elsewhere still flourish here. Fish are still abundant in its lakes, marshes and streams, whales and porpoises cruise the rugged coastline, and many rare mammals and birds still prosper in the forests and on the plains.
Here youll find a thriving ecotourism and outdoor adventure industry. For animal and bird watchers, keen photographers, and those who enjoy adventure sports, its the perfect place to have a long relaxing holiday. Cross-country bike touring, hiking, fishing and horseback riding are popular in the summer and cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling in winter. And there are plenty of water sports, including scuba diving, sea kayaking, sailing, wind surfing, and whitewater rafting....