Help Needed: Vancouver Island in March - things to do apart from skiing

[MrsPlow]

Hello!

My mum is planning a trip to visit us in March while we're in Canada for the winter. She doesn't ski - apart from generally flat xc trails - but is extremely fit and active for her age (early 80s). The plan is for her to have a few days on Vancouver Island, then over to the Banff area for a few days, before heading to stay with us. I thought the Island was a good option because it's that more temperate so there's better odds that she'll be able to get out and travel around without there being a lot of snow on the ground. I have a few ideas for Banff (where there is obviously very likely to be snow around) but have never been to Vancouver Island - I wondered if any of the divas had been there and had any suggestions?

She's happy walking 10 to 12 miles a day with moderate hills, so if anyone knows of any companies that do guided group walks that would be perfect.

Also any recommendations about where to stay - is Victoria a good option if she's only there a few days? She would be relying on taxis and/or public transport.

TIA!

 

[BlizzardBabe]

We always kayak and go whale watching. There is a rainforest trail that is amazing. Just be mindful of the bears. We had a couple of uneventful, but thought provoking encounters w/black bears on the trails. The Butchart gardens are a MUST. Victoria is wonderful. Ooooh, and the high tea at the Empress!