Self-guided walking
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1 to 3
Flights
available
21.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Tucked into the southwest corner of mainland British Columbia, this 180km stretch of paradise is lovingly known as the Sunshine Coast. Only accessible by plane or boat, this extraordinary shoreline stretches from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound. You'll become immersed in vibrant communities, reconnect with nature, and enjoy spectacular scenery as you explore this inspiring coastline which remains under the radar - for now!
With rugged mountains bordering these beautiful inlets, on foot is truly the best way to uncover the Sunshine Coast's hidden gems. Walking trails are plentiful and incredibly varied, from majestic forests and mountains to sweeping ocean vistas, you're spoilt for choice. The area is rich with fauna and flora, home to black bears, cougars, and wolves, as well as many species of interesting plants, flowers, and berries.
Your accommodation is equally as unique and beautiful as the Sunshine Coast itself. Set in tranquil, waterfront locations, these remarkable resorts are fantastic hideaways, surrounded by nature and often with paddleboards or kayak rental should you wish to explore the nearby waters.
Add On - Klahoose Wilderness Resort: See it on Youtube
This is a once in a lifetime experience like no other. Incredibly unique, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is an immersive, Indigenous cultural experience which reflects the Klahoose people's traditional values and explores the pristine region within the heart of Desolation Sound, British Columbia. Only accessible by boat or seaplane, this off-grid resort sits between the Coast Mountain Peaks of the Sunshine Coast and the Salish Sea, on the edge of BC's Great Bear Rainforest. Rich in diverse wildlife, you'll take part in immersive marine and terrestrial viewings to see Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Porpoises, Dolphins, Sealions, Seals, and Eagles. From late August to mid-October, you can also join Grizzly Bear viewing tours in Toba Inlet.
There are many other activities included in your stay: Guided Indigenous cultural activities and excursions, cedar weaving, sea kayaking, stand up-paddle boarding, ocean swimming, woodfire cedar sauna, rainforest nature walks, campfires and dark sky gazing, and ocean and forest foraging. You'll stay in a stunning waterfront lodge for 3 or 4 nights. Everything is included, accommodation in a lodge room or cabin, all meals, transfers, and activities. With a typical stay of around 12 guests, your experience is small and personal. Your friendly lodge hosts are local guides from the Klahoose Nation who take pride in providing an extremely personalised service as they welcome you into their traditional Klahoose Nation territory. Please see itinerary for more information.
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The routes follow a mixture of paths, mountain tracks and coastal trails. Paths are of variable standard so you will need sturdy footwear; you may find walking poles useful.
Upon your arrival at Vancouver International Airport, you'll collect your rental car and drive to your first hotel in Vancouver to rest up before beginning your walking trip (approx. 30mins).
You stay at Fairmont Hotel.
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This historical hotel is fondly known as the ‘castle in the city’ and has been combining luxury and elegance since 1939. Benefitting from a prime downtown location, the hotel is close to many local attractions and excellent restaurants. With an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and fitness centre, this hotel is a great place to rest before beginning your walking trip.
Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.
Drive to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal (approx. 20mins) for your ferry to Gibsons (45mins). Check in to your accommodation before heading out on your first Sunshine Coast walk. See our choice of walks below.
Choice of walks in Gibsons (2.7km/2km), Sechelt (8km/3km), and Roberts Creek (10.3km). Explore lush fern valleys, powerful waterfalls, mossy canyons, and alpine lakes across these incredibly varied walks.
You stay at Bonniebrook Lodge.
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The historic Bonniebrook Lodge is a 4-story, 7 suite lodge sitting on stunning ocean front property. Chasters Restaurant, contained within the Lodge, offers the ultimate dining experience to lodge guests and locals on the beautiful Sunshine Coast of B.C.
Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.
Walk along Mount Elphinstone Summit Trail, one of the highest peaks on the lower Sunshine Coast. Through forest, you'll follow the coloured markers as you climb along the ridge with glimpses of Langdale creek down below. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with expansive views to Vancouver, Gibsons, Bowen Island, and much of Howe Sound.
Choice of walks in Gibsons (2.7km/2km), Sechelt (8km/3km), and Roberts Creek (10.3km). Explore lush fern valleys, powerful waterfalls, mossy canyons, and alpine lakes across these incredibly varied walks.
Choice of walks in Madeira Park (1.8km/2.5km/4.4km) and Halfmoon Bay (4.2km/7.6km). Visit the rocky outcrop of Smugglers Cove, loop around a forest lake, or visit the Garden Bay Marine Provincial Park with a protected archaeological site.
You stay at Painted Boat Resort & Spa.
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Nestled in a tranquil waterfront setting surrounded by Douglas fir, red cedar, and Arbutus trees, these simple yet elegant villas each feature beautiful rooms, a large patio or balcony, BBQ, and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s a hot tub and infinity pool onsite, as well as a spa and serenity garden. The onsite Lagoon Restaurant is open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, showcasing a casual coastal feel. Paddleboards and kayaks are available to rent from the hotel.
Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.
Choice of walks in Madeira Park (1.8km/2.5km/4.4km) and Egmont (7.5km).
Embark on a scenic beach walk to a small lighthouse with an arbutus tree grove or take a forested walk to a rocky outcrop with views of the changing tidal waters, creating unique rapids and whirlpools.
Take the ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay (1h), then drive to Powell River (approx. 30mins).
After arriving on the ferry, we'd recommend a favourite walk amongst Powell River locals. As part of the renowned Sunshine Coast Trail, this relatively easy trail follows the riverbed and Appleton Creek to an iconic hut and lake with waterfalls and charming bridges along the way (7km).
You stay at Desolation Sound.
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Located in the beautiful Okeover Inlet, these unique, local-crafted wooden chalets sit beautifully on the waterfront. Each has a fully equipped kitchen, private deck, and steps down to the water, all with unparalleled scenery. Complimentary kayaks and canoes are available for all guests.
Should this accommodation not be available, an alternative of the same standard will be used.
Choice of walks in Powell River (14.5km/18.3km). Enjoy a gentle trail through the forest with spots to swim or embark on a longer trail up Tin Hat Mountain to an iconic viewpoint and hut that sits at the halfway point of the Sunshine Coast long-distance trail. Tin Hat Hut is a stunning 360° mountain-top lookout with views that define the Powell River experience.
Choice of walks in Lund (4.5km/8.7km/10.4km). Wind your way through vibrant forest with views of Okeover Inlet and the Salish Sea. Another walk takes you to the mossy rainforest of Malaspina Provincial Park and Wednesday Lake or follow a picturesque trail along the coastal bluffs of Hurtado Bay.
Take two ferries before driving back to Vancouver International Airport to return your rental car and fly home. Alternatively, you can add on one of our incredible optional extensions as below.
You stay at Klahoose Wilderness Resort.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort,
Klahoose Wilderness Resort: Add on 3 or 4 nights at the incredibly unique, Klahoose Wilderness Resort. This is a once in a lifetime Indigenous cultural experience, reflecting the Klahoose people's traditional values and exploring the diverse wildlife of Desolation Sound. Please enquire for prices.
This is the perfect add-on to our 8-night trip - 'Walking Canada's Sunshine Coast'. Ending in Desolation Sound Resort, it's a short 10min drive to Lund port where you're met by a Klahoose representative for your boat transfer to the resort (included - approx. 1hr); you can leave your hire car at Lund port (paid locally - approx. $10per day).
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £743.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Vancouver International airport.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Explore Canada’s breath-taking Sunshine Coast on this autumn walking holiday, featuring lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and scenic ridge trails. Extend your adventure to Klahoose for unforgettable wildlife encounters, including grizzlies and rare kermode bears during the salmon run.
Self-guided walking
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1 to 3
Flights
available
21.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
