One of Canada's 'most beautiful places to live' is this magical island with misty coastline
When it comes to beauty, this island in B.C. gets put under the spotlight time and time again. From its white sandy beaches to cozy little towns, it's home to some of the most picturesque spots in the country.
That's why it's been dubbed as one of the most beautiful places to live in Canada, in a Narcity poll. This isn't the first time the island has gained attention though.
It's been named among the best in the country, and even the world, thanks to its dreamy small towns, scenic shorelines, and lots more.
This is Vancouver Island, and it's just as idyllic as it sounds.
From the lively streets of Victoria to the rugged and remote beauty of Strathcona Park, the island has a lot to see.
Victoria is the main hub here, and within the city you'll already get a taste of the natural beauty the rest of the island has to offer. There are picturesque streets lined with little boutiques and colourful storefronts, on top of a pretty waterfront.
Head a little outside of downtown, though, and you'll find beaches with uninterrupted views of the sparkling ocean.
Then there's Beacon Hill Park, which has lush greenery that makes you feel like you're in the wilderness.
The Buchart Gardens, located near the city, is another escape into natural beauty, featuring 55 acres of pristine gardens to explore.
Short drives from the city will lead you to true natural wonders, though.
Mystic Beach is a go-to about an hour and a half outside of the city. You'll park, hike through a vibrant forest and over a suspension bridge, before you reach the dreamy beach. Towards the end of it you'll find sea caves and a stunning waterfall that tumbles down into the ocean.
Driving around Vancouver Island, you can take your pick of cute towns. Not that far from Victoria you'll find Ladysmith, a charming small town along the water that feels like it's the set for a romance novel.
Keep on driving and you can visit Qualicum Beach — another stunning community with cozy streets, charming shops, and miles of sandy beach.
Perhaps the most famous of the small towns on Vancouver Island, though, is Tofino. It's busy, as one of the main tourist hotspots here, but it's worth a visit. It has everything from soft sandy beaches and cool local shops, to misty rainforest trails that'll leave you breathless.
If you want to continue exploring nature, you can visit the renowned shoreline of San Josef Bay, located within Cape Scott Provincial Park.
While it has been ranked among the best of the best, it's a bit out of the way so maintains a remote feel to it. The beach is unique with sea stacks scattered around the velvety sand, and crystal clear water washing up on the shore.
That's just the beginning of the adventures you can have here, but the main point? Vancouver Island is undeniably a beautiful place to live.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
