Regions

There are six main regions in British Columbia and each contributes a seasonal wealth of delicious ingredients for local chefs and foodies.

For regionally rooted restaurants the natural abundance of British Columbia offers an eternal source of inspiration.

Wild salmon, golden honey mussels, spot prawns, scallops, geoduck, albacore tuna: the bounty of British Columbia waters is renown amongst locals and visitors alike. From the glorious greens of the Fraser Valley to the exotic mushrooms of the Okanagan and the peerless potatoes of Pemberton, the province’s terroir is gaining similar recognition. Together with BC bison, Fraser Valley duck and ostrich and Salt Spring Island lamb, these products begin to form a representative sampling of the cuisines of BC.

Click on the map below to view CTSBC certified establishments in each region of British Columbia.

Vancouver Island, Victoria & the Gulf Islands | top of page

The Vancouver Island region is a large, sparsely populated area, encompassing Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands as well as a portion of the mainland. It has one of the world's most diverse ecosystems: rainforests, marshes, meadows, beaches, mountains, oceans, rivers and lakes create habitats for multitudes of wildlife species.

The beauty and tranquility of this region has long been a draw for artists and artisans. In Victoria and the Islands, culinary tourism has taken root. From the chefs who prepare the meals, to the farmers who grew or raised the produce used, regional cuisine and beverage production are making its mark on the food scene.

Around Victoria, the northern Saanich Peninsula and the Cowichan Valley are home to agricultural land. The Island’s coastal climate is mild and promotes a long growing season compared to the rest of Canada. The Cowichan Valley, 45 minutes north of Victoria, means "warm land" in a native tongue and enjoys the warmest and longest growing season on Vancouver Island.

Acclaimed wineries, cideries and a meadery, alongside the region's organic producers, artisan cheesemakers and other gourmet producers make this up this unique region.

Buy fresh from the farm or from roadside stands, scattered along country roads, which operate on the honour system. Fresh greens and herbs, fruit and berries, cheese, poultry, lamb, ostrich and fallow deer are just a few of the products to be found. Stay overnight at a bed and breakfast on a working farm or go hiking with llamas.

Vancouver, Coast & Mountains | top of page

Vancouver, Coast & Mountains are home to mountains, ocean, lakes, rivers and beaches - they're here in abundance and breathtaking in scope. They also provide the perfect setting for culinary adventures.

Vancouver, Coast & Mountains offers superb dining. From the Fraser Valley to urban Vancouver, culinary tourism is found in the restaurants, wineries, and farms. Dairy farmers handcrafting their own butter and artisan cheese, the best berry farms as well as fruit wineries all make this area truly a one-of-a-kind culinary destination.

Thompson Okanagan | top of page

Famous for its orchards, vineyards and highly diverse landscape.

The history and culture of the Thompson Okanagan region is tied to the land. Aboriginal peoples led a semi-nomadic life moving between hunting and fishing grounds in the summers and settling into pit houses for the winter. Europeans came at first to trade for furs and then to establish cattle ranches, farms and mining operations.

Today, the Thompson Okanagan region is famous for its orchards and vineyards as well as the wildly varied landscape. Artisanal cheesemakers, as well as honey and lavender farms now dot the landscape bringing more culinary diversity to the area. Many of the wineries boast beautiful dining rooms utilizing the local fare.

Kootenay Rockies | top of page

The Kootenay Rockies is a vast wilderness of rivers, lakes, waterfalls, beaches, mineral hot springs, alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains.

The area is internationally renowned for its abundant fishing locales, which provide unique and wonderful dining experiences.

On land, the region is one of Canada's pre-eminent destinations for golfing and mountain biking, while the many dude and guest ranches offer authentic cattle rides. Camping opportunities abound.

Wildlife flourish here - be on the lookout for eagles, elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, moose, cougar as well as black and grizzly bears.

Cariboo Chilcotin | top of page

The thousands of lakes, rivers and magnificent stretch of Pacific Ocean coastline make the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast an über region for fishing, boating, camping, swimming and kayaking.

On dry land, there are endless gently winding trails and strenuous backcountry routes to walk, hike, ride and canter. You can also drive the original Cariboo Waggon Road on the historic Gold Rush Trail. Lodge at a local guest ranch and visit a cowboy museum. The region is famous for its rodeos and stampedes.

North British Columbia | top of page

Northern BC's vast wilderness comprises more than half the province - approximately 500,000 square kilometre (193,051 square mile). This is a land of jagged mountain peaks, roaring rivers, serene lakes, green valleys, rugged coastlines and ancient island archipelagos.

The region is known for its magnificent freshwater and saltwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting and in the winter, powder skiing.

You won't want to miss the Queen Charlotte Islands, an untamed land rich in Haida culture and with distinct island flora and fauna that have evolved over thousands of years. A vibrant arts community also exists on these islands as well as some of B.C.’s best fishing lodges.