The remote town of Holberg, British Columbia, Canada.

Holberg, a remote town on the western side of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

The tiny village of Holberg sits at the most westerly end of Holberg Inlet. This community is accessible via a 50 km (31 mi) gravel logging road leading west from Port Hardy.

In its early days, Holberg existed as a floating camp, at one time the world’s largest, for forestry workers in the area. Logging operations are completely land-based here today.

A notable attraction near town is one of the region’s most famous: Ronning’s Garden. Carved out of the rainforest in 1910 by original owner Bernt Ronning, this vast exotic garden was grown from fascinating plants brought by the original owner from around the world. Today, a small group of volunteers tends to the five-acre property, which includes a collection of bamboos, rhododendrons, Japanese maples and a number of monkey puzzle trees, old and new, including the tallest recorded in North America.

In Holberg, you will find the most remote pub/restaurant on Vancouver Island.

THE SCARLET IBIS

Cozy and inviting, this quaint pub features rustic wooden furniture, a vibrant red carpet, and an eclectic display of memorabilia, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.

on our most recent adventure out that way, we stopped in to see for ourselves what all the hype was about, as we had heard many stories about this place.

A cozy pub with a rustic exterior, a picnic bench outside in front, set against a backdrop of lush greenery.

inside, you find the cozy and laid-back place on earth.

There is a guest sign-in book where travellers from all over the world have left their mark.

There is also a lovely patio where you can enjoy a cold beer and a hot meal prepared just the way you like from the in-house chef. Note: that the patio may be wet and cold at certain times of the year.

A refreshing pint of ale, overlooking a serene landscape of mountains and a tranquil bay under a partly cloudy sky.

Crispy golden fish fillets served with a side of fries and a fresh salad for a delightful meal.

If that's not all, you can even rent a hut to rest up before/after venturing out to Cape Scott or San Josef Bay for some of the most breathtaking views imaginable.

The Cape Scott Trail is a popular 50-kilometre backpacking trail located in Cape Scott Park on the northern tip of Vancouver Island. It's a multi-day hike through diverse landscapes, including old-growth forests, marshlands, and long stretches of beaches. The trail is generally considered a challenging route, with most people taking 3-4 days to complete. 

San Josef bay.

A serene coastal landscape featuring a secluded sandy beach surrounded by lush greenery and rocky outcrops, set against a backdrop of clear blue skies and calm ocean waters.

The beach features waves lapping against a white sandy beach, surrounded by rugged rocks and lush green mountains under a clear blue sky.

Tucked away on the rugged northern tip of the island, this remote area offers an unforgettable experience for those craving isolation, pristine beaches, and raw nature. Cape Scott and San Josef Bay of Vancouver Island's wild side in all its glory, from the striking coastline of San Josef Bay to the lush rainforest trails.

Getting here is part of the adventure—it requires a bit of determination, but the journey is richly rewarding. Whether you're marvelling at the unique sea stacks of San Josef Bay or exploring trails steeped in history, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking tranquillity far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.