Jay

How is the drive across the island. <BR>

cindy

Jay, could you please explain a bit more about what you need to know? Are you asking about distance, time, or what the roads are like - ?? Post again and I'll try to help.

fran

What are the roads like and how long will it take?

tut

Jay, just returned from that part of the country. Took approx 2 and a half hours. If I remember correctly, the dual highway out of Nanaimo is only for about half hour or so before it becomes single again. Driving was pretty good unless you get behind trucks, campervans, etc. but every so often there's passing lanes to enable you to get by. Weather can also be iffy - Not sure what time of year you plan to go but keep in mind that it does rain for much of the year (hence the temperate rain forests).

AD

I did the drive a few months ago. Out, I got off the Nanaimo ferry at ~1am and got to Tofino 3.5 hours later. I'd highly recommend against driving it that late at night. (no lights, curvy roads, so no long distance visibility, on the way back when I could see the road, there was a lot of "there was a cliff there - close call.")<BR><BR>On the way back, it took about 2.5 hours. Including getting stuck behind trucks and campers, etc. It was the standard drive through mountains type of road.

John

Hello All, Anyone out there who can give me travel time or distance for road trip from Victoria to Nanaimo? Looking at March-April-03 timeframe. Of course, a synopsis of what the scenery is like would also be much appreciated.<BR>Thank you, lots of great info on this forum.

Cindy

The trip will probably take 2 hours or less. Driving along the Malahat is the most beautiful part of it, although it can be treacherous if it's rainy or getting dark. There are lots of blind curves; it's a mountain road. At the time of year you mention (and locals will be able to correct me on this if I'm wrong) it's possible there could be snow up there, in which case you have to be REALLY careful. But it's a gorgeous part of the world. There are also less exciting sections; the area around Duncan isn't much to look at. You might want to stop in Chemainus and have a look around; parts of it are quite pretty. In general, though, I'm always dazzled by the constant presence of the mountains, and the ocean is never far away. Do you have more specific questions? I'd be happy to answer them.