Fall Adventure Vancouver Island Grizzly Bears, High Tea and More

Our review of the Fall Adventure Vancouver Island tour offers a detailed look at this eight-day journey through one of Canada’s most scenic and wildlife-rich destinations. While we haven’t experienced it personally, the carefully curated itinerary promises a perfect mix of outdoor exploration, luxury, and authentic encounters.

What we love most about this experience:

• The chance to see majestic grizzly bears in their natural habitat with expert guides.
• The blend of overland camping and luxurious lodge stays that balances adventure with comfort.
• The opportunity to indulge in a classic high tea at the Fairmont Empress — a true taste of Victoria’s elegance.

A potential consideration is that the price point of $3,482.49 per group might seem steep for some, especially when factoring in optional upgrades. Still, for travelers seeking a meaningful wildlife experience paired with comfort, this tour offers substantial value.

This trip is best suited for couples and families who want a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury. It’s particularly ideal if you love adventure but also want downtime and indulgence.

Good To Know

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife viewing, scenic drives, cozy camping, and luxurious lodge stays.
• Wildlife Encounters: Focused on grizzly bears, with expert guides offering a front-row experience.
• Authentic Local Experiences: High tea at the Empress and stops at local breweries enrich the trip.
• Comfort & Adventure: Offers a mix of overland camping, boutique accommodations, and private beach access.
• Flexible Upgrades: Options like champagne high tea and gourmet meals add a special touch.
• Suitable for Many: Designed for travelers who want meaningful nature encounters without sacrificing comfort.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

This tour is designed to provide a thorough taste of what Vancouver Island has to offer in fall — from its lush landscapes to its wildlife spectacles.

Day 1: Welcome to Victoria

Your adventure kicks off in Victoria, the island’s charming capital. You’ll be greeted with a fully equipped overland camper, ready to take you into the wilderness and comfort. Starting your day by exploring Beacon Hill Park, with its winding paths and vibrant autumn foliage, sets a relaxed tone. The Inner Harbour offers iconic views and a feeling of city-meets-nature.

A highlight is the Afternoon High Tea at the Fairmont Empress, which many describe as an indulgent and refined experience. Reviewers mention it’s a “beautiful way to start the trip, with a touch of elegance.” Staying overnight at a cozy boutique hotel in downtown Victoria keeps you close to local cafes and sights.

Day 2: Scenic Drive & Local Brews

Heading north, the Malahat SkyWalk offers stunning vantage points over the Saanich Inlet, especially beautiful in fall when the trees turn gold. Along the route, sampling fall-season beers at Red Arrow Brewing, Longwood Brewery, and Mount Arrowsmith Brewing allows you to taste local flavors — some reviewers appreciated the “great variety of craft brews and tasty smoked meats.”

Camping at spots like Qualicum Falls or Englishman River Falls provides peaceful nights with the sounds of rustling leaves and crackling fires. Expect to settle into a quiet, natural setting with plenty of opportunities for short hikes and photography.

Day 3: Coastal Drift and Campbell River

This day involves more coastal scenery as you travel toward Campbell River, a hub for wildlife tours and outdoor adventures. Stops like Elk Falls Suspension Bridge and Fanny Bay (famous for sea lion sightings) keep the journey engaging. The discovery of local fish and chips at the pier provides a laid-back lunch.

Day 4: The Main Event — Grizzly Bear Tour

The star of this tour is undoubtedly the full-day grizzly bear experience with Campbell River Whale Watching. The cruise to the Orford River Valley is described as scenic and peaceful. Guided to raised viewing platforms, you’re positioned to witness grizzlies feasting on salmon — a spectacle that many call “a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

Reviews mention that guides are knowledgeable, and sightings may include whales, sea lions, and bald eagles, adding layers of wildlife to the adventure. Many find the experience “magical” and appreciate the safety measures that allow close, respectful viewing.

Day 5: Lake Cowichan’s Calm

After the excitement, a quieter day at Lake Cowichan allows you to relax. The calm waters and scenic trails like Skutz Falls are perfect for unwinding. Sipping locally brewed cider or beer from Merridale Cidery or Riot Brewing Co. adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Day 6: Coastal Wonders & Craidelona Lodge

Your journey continues to Port Renfrew, known for stormy surf and tide pools at Botanical Beach. The visit to Fairy Lake Bonsai Tree provides a surreal photo opportunity. Arriving at Craidelona Oceanside Lodge in the late afternoon marks a shift to pure relaxation, especially with options to add private chef-catered meals or enjoy the private beach.

Day 7: Pure Coastal Bliss

This day is all about unwinding. The lodge’s amenities — hot tub, sauna, and outdoor tide pools — make it easy to slow down. Reviewing guests’ comments, the peaceful, raw atmosphere really shines through, making it an ideal way to connect with nature and recharge.

Day 8: Scenic Departure via Sooke

Your final day takes you through Sooke, with stops at French Beach Provincial Park and local breweries. The journey back to Victoria feels like a fitting end to the trip, leaving you with a handful of stunning coastal views and memorable moments.

The Value of This Tour

At $3,482.49, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with diverse, high-quality experiences. The wildlife encounters—especially the grizzly bear tour—are rare and impactful. The accommodation mix offers comfort without losing the essence of outdoor adventure, which many travelers appreciate based on reviews mentioning the “peaceful, beautiful lodges” with “easy access to the beach and nature.”

Optional upgrades like champagne high tea or gourmet delivered meals add unique touches to an already memorable trip, allowing you to personalize your experience. The group size (up to 2) keeps things intimate, enhancing the chance for authentic moments and expert guiding.

The itinerary’s balance between active wildlife viewing and relaxed coastal leisure means you can tailor your pace. Although the entire trip involves some travel, each stop is designed to maximize immersion without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who also value comfort, wildlife enthusiasts eager to see bears in the wild, and those who enjoy a touch of luxury. It suits couples celebrating a special occasion, families seeking a memorable outdoor experience, or anyone looking to connect with Vancouver Island’s wild side during a stunning fall season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as most travelers can participate, and the experience is designed to be enjoyed by a broad audience. Just be aware of the outdoor activities involved.

What’s included in the price?
You get a grizzly bear tour for two, two nights at the oceanside lodge, and a coffee or tea. Additional upgrades like high tea, gourmet meals, or champagne service are optional.

Are there any accommodations other than camping?
Yes, you’ll stay for two nights at Craidelona Oceanside Lodge and one night at a boutique downtown Victoria hotel.

Can I request special dietary options?
The tour offers optional upgrades like catered meals, which can be arranged. It’s best to specify your needs when booking.

How long is the grizzly bear tour?
It’s a full-day experience, beginning with a scenic cruise and ending with viewing bears from elevated platforms.

What are the optional upgrades?
You can opt for a champagne high tea at the Empress or a gourmet meal delivered to your lodge on nights 6 or 7.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes all the transportation between stops, with the use of a fully equipped overland camper and guide support.

Final Thoughts

This Fall Adventure Vancouver Island offers a rich blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive nature escape with a touch of luxury. The emphasis on wildlife viewing, especially grizzlies, combined with cozy lodge stays and local cultural experiences, creates a well-rounded experience.

While the price might seem high, the value lies in the unique encounters, expert guidance, and curated accommodations that combine to make this a truly memorable trip. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a couple celebrating, or a family wanting an adventure, this tour has the ingredients to deliver an authentic, scenic, and somewhat indulgent fall getaway on Vancouver Island.

In short, this experience is best for those craving meaningful wildlife moments, scenic coastal beauty, and comfort — wrapped up in one carefully curated journey.