Summer in Tofino is a great time for whale watching and experiencing the pristine wilderness of Vancouver Island, which provides an unspoiled habitat for the island�s wildlife.

Over 21,000 grey whales pass through the area on their way to Siberia and up to 12 resident greys make their home in the neighbouring bays where they feed throughout the summer. Pods of Orcas are sighted every fortnight or so and in recent years a posse of Humpback whales has made the local waters their summer getaway for most of July through to September.

Visitors to the area have many choices when experiencing Vancouver Island�s west coast. Activities include land-based whale watching along guided nature tracks, a popular way to see the majesty of the whales in their natural environment.

An alternative is a nature-tour package, where visitors are lead by a local naturalist on a journey to discover the secrets of the island�s unique coastal ecology. Adventure paddling is also an excellent way to experience the wilderness.

Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the Wickaninnish Inn is well equipped to provide guests with a Vancouver Island adventure. Whale watching, sea kayaking, guided hikes across headlands and day trips to the local hot springs are the order of the season.

The Wickaninnish Inn has been awarded several accolades in Zagat's 2001 Survey of Top International Hotels, Resorts & Spas, including topping the list of 5 best resorts in Canada, and placing among the top 50 small inns and resorts worldwide.

The Pointe Restaurant, at the Wickaninnish Inn, is located on the edge of a rocky promontory, provideing patrons with a spectacular 240-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and some of the most picturesque sunsets in the world. The restaurant uses mostly local produce ranging from giant roasting oysters and Tofino smoked salmon to several varieties of mushrooms and locally produced goat cheese.

For free brochures, maps and information on Vancouver Island and Canada, contact Canada Travel Information on tel: (02) 9954 3377. The Canadian Tourism Commission's web site can be located at www.canada.trav.net.

**ENDS** Distributed for the Canadian Tourism Commission by Savage Communications. For more information contact: Donna Brinkhaus Canadian Tourism Commission Tel: (02) 9364 3027

Emma Sturgiss SavageCommunications Tel: (02) 9959 3822