BEAUTIFUL British Columbia

From city to mountains in no time, this Canadian province has it all

- ELLA DOVE

Set between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Canada's westernmost province is known for its temperate rainforests, glacier-fed rivers and lakes, and abundant wildlife. Head there for the trip of a lifetime.

Beaches and bears

Combining the buzz of city life with British Columbia's renowned nature, Vancouver is the ideal starting point to explore the region. Head to the Vancouver Lookout for 360-degree views and enjoy a beachside stroll in the hip areas of Kitsilano or English Bay, or hire bikes and cycle around Stanley Park's seawall. Peckish? Tuck in at Granville Island market, where food stalls are plentiful and local crafters sell their handmade wares.

Nature lovers can book a whale-watching tour for a bucket-list opportunity to spot orcas and humpback whales. You could also splash out and go bear spotting at Bella Coola, aka The Great Bear Rainforest, an hour's flight from Vancouver. This remote community is home to black bears and majestic grizzlies. Observe them from designated bear-watching areas or hop on a rafting tour to spot grizzlies fishing for salmon (kynochadventuretours.com).