Undoubtedly the ‘destination of the moment’, Tofino deserves the many superlatives used to describe this iconic west coast destination. Boasting spectacular kilometers of protected beaches (surfing anyone?), pristine forest including the UNESCO Biosphere of Clayoquot Sound and a bohemian vibe, there are now luxurious hotels and fine dining experiences to match. Just down the road is a lesser-known but equally deserving destination, Ucluelet, rich in tradition with its own laid-back coastal culture. By 2021, the spectacular 40km paved bikeway that links these towns will be near completion. With this addition, and the plethora of hiking options, plus some of the best sea-kayaking in the northern hemisphere, could there be a more appealing multi-sport trip in North America?
Ucluelet, BC, Canada
Day 1+2
Tofino, BC, Canada
Day 3+4+5+6
| Start any date between Jun 1 and Sep 30. |
|---|
| Custom trips are also available and can start any date, call or email for details. |
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelModerate
40 km (25 mi) daily
TerrainModerate
CostClassic Accommodation: CAD $2,670
Single Supplement: CAD $680
Bike Rental
Hybrid Bikes: CAD $260
Racing Bikes: CAD $360
E-Bikes*: CAD $400
Prices are per person before tax. British Columbia applies a 5% GST.
*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
Getting There
The most exciting (and convenient) way to arrive to the Tofino is by plane from Vancouver – Pacific Coastal Airlines operates a daily service. Or rent a car and drive, or sit back and take the Tofino bus, which you can access from Nanaimo’s Departure Bay ferry terminal.
Ucluelet
Your trip starts in Ucluelet, 40 km west of Tofino. Our Area Manager will meet you at 2pm (or time convenient to you) at the hotel. Then head out for an easy-going hike on the Wild Pacific Trail; this loop through forest and shoreline to a lighthouse is a great introduction to ‘Ukee’. Overlooking Barclay Sound and the Broken Group Islands to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the south and west, the trail system offers spectacular shoreline panoramas through ancient cedar and spruce framed walkways. Enjoy a casual dinner at a favourite local restaurant.
Hike Distance: 2.2 km; elevation gain: 40 m
Rainforest Trail
Start the day with a ride along the bike path & trail that leads to the Rainforest trail, a loop walk through moss-covered woodland with ancient cedars. Afterwards, cycle back to Ucluelet. Tonight you may wish to dine at Pluvio, owned by chef Warren Barr & Lily Verney-Downey.
Ride Distance: 34 km; elevation gain: 0 m
Hike Distance: 2.2 km; elevation gain: 20 m
Between Ucluelet & Tofino
With an investment of some $35 million, the newly opened bike path between Ucluelet and Tofino is destined to become one of the great rides of the world. Stop for lunch at Cox Beach. If you wish to try surfing, rentals (and lessons) are available. If you choose not to surf, walk a stretch of beach and watch the surf action. Afterwards, ride past Chesterman Beach to Mackenzie Beach and spectacular Middle Beach Lodge. Dinner tonight will be in the lodge’s stunning dining room.
Ride Distance: 40 km; elevation gain: 200 m
Pacific Rim Traverse
Start the day with optional yoga on the beach followed by breakfast. After a short transfer, hike one of the most beautiful trails in the world, the Pacific Rim Traverse. We don’t want to give away everything, but suffice to say, that this walk includes forested trail and raised walkways along stunning beaches and will be unforgettable. Visit the Kwisitis Visitor Centre to learn about the First Nations of this coast.
Hike Distance: 11 km; elevation gain: 135 m
Tofino
Lots of options today: sea-kayak or paddle out to Meares Island and then hike the Big Tree trail; the ‘big tree’ is the largest red cedar in BC, thought to be 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest in the world! Whale watching is also an option – join a tour to Hot Springs Cove with marine life viewing en-route. Or cycle into town or back to Cox Beach to surf more. Have lunch at Tacofino. We recommend your last night dinner at Wolf in the Fog, a Tofino institution.
Hike Distance: 2.8 km; elevation gain: 35 m
Kayaking: 1/2 day guided kayak tour to Meares Island (2-3 hrs of paddling)
Depart
After breakfast, depart at your leisure. Float plane option highly recommended!
This 4-star hotel is on a dramatic headland and oceanfront in Ucluelet with amenities that include comfortable rooms, lounges, swimming pool, spa and fine-dining restaurant. The Wild Pacific Trail can be accessed right from the Black Rock property. Studio room.
Upgrades on request.
We confess to having a bias here. We have stayed at all of the luxury hotels in Tofino and Middle Beach Lodge exudes a casual luxury that we love. The property boasts an unrivalled location on Mackenzie Beach, a wonderful restaurant (hotel guests only), and is steps to Tacofino, the Tofino Botanical gardens and more. Studio room.
Upgrades on request.
Tour Reviews
“We loved the natural beauty of the area and the bike trail from Ucluelet to Tofino. The cliff walks and trails around Ucluelet were beautiful and the kayaking was excellent. Our Travel Advisor was great with offering alternate hikes on a day of rain. Her communication was excellent.”
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