Port Alberni provided us with the perfect, quintessential Canadian experience - from the super-friendly people to watching bears fish for salmon only a few minutes from town at Stamp Falls Provincial Park, it was an unforgettable trip for the whole family. The highlight for me was definitely the surrounding scenery and wildlife – seeing bears and grey whales in the wild was something that I have never seen before going to the Alberni Valley. The only other place I have ever seen so much untouched and unspoiled beauty in one spot is home, in New Zealand!

While expecting to stay just for a night, en route to Tofino, my visit to Port Alberni was delightfully surprising – so surprising, I stayed for five days. I met wonderful, down-to-earth people who were very welcoming, friendly and helpful. A little exploration into the surrounding areas uncovered stunning natural landscapes, brimming with many opportunities to hike, swim and cycle in the awesome summer climate that Port Alberni seems to have plenty of. I also discovered a new pastime while in Port Alberni called: TUBING.

Visiting the Alberni Valley was the biggest surprise of my trip to Vancouver Island. Originally planned to be a quick stopover, I soon fell in love with the natural beauty, the people, and the unique atmosphere of this special place. Port Alberni has everything to offer, from its stunning harbour front to the many trails and rivers within easy access of town. In the future, I would choose to spend more time here than in nearby touristy Ucluelet and Tofino. Highly recommended!