Superhost

·

Victoria, BC

"Goldie" Vintage 1985 Westfalia: Retro Road Trip Machine

5

Excellent

9

Offers delivery

Pet friendly

25+

Sleeps 4

Step into Vancouver Island’s most iconic road‑trip experience with Goldie, a beautifully cared‑for 1985 VW Westfalia that blends vintage charm with thoughtful modern upgrades. Whether you're four friends exploring the Island, a couple chasing sunsets, or a small family seeking a cozy coastal escape, Goldie is your ticket to slow travel, starry nights, and unforgettable freedom.
Driving a Westy isn’t just transportation — it’s a vibe, a pace, a story you get to live.
Mechanical Excellence
This Westfalia stands out for its exceptional mechanical reliability. The engine has been professionally rebuilt and meticulously serviced, ensuring smooth, dependable performance on long trips and mountain climbs alike. The transmission shifts cleanly, and recent upgrades include new brakes, suspension components, and a modern cooling system for consistent, worry‑free operation. Every system — from the electrical to the fuel delivery — has been gone through with care to keep the van road‑trip ready.
Driving Experience
With its steady handling and well‑tuned ride, this vintage van offers the perfect balance between classic VW charm and modern reliability. It’s powered enough for highway cruising yet still delivers that iconic Westy feel behind the wheel.
Why Rent Goldie?
Goldie is set up for comfort, simplicity, and adventure — no complicated systems, no bulky RV stress, and unlimited mileage so you can roam freely from Tofino to Port Alberni to Hornby Island.
Key Features
Sleeps 4 comfortably Pop‑top bed for 2 + fold‑down bench bed for 2
Solar power system Keeps lights, devices, and essentials running off‑grid
Warm, cozy bedding included Perfect for cool Island nights
Fully stocked kitchenette 2‑burner stove, sink, fridge/icebox, cookware, utensils, and more
Island‑ready extras Hammock, camping chairs, and audio inputs for your road‑trip playlist
Compact & nimble Parks anywhere — unlike big RVs — and ideal for ferry travel
Unlimited mileage Explore the Island without watching the odometer
What It’s Like to Travel in Goldie
Goldie is happiest cruising scenic roads, pulling into oceanfront campsites, and settling under the trees with the pop‑top up. She’s a classic, so expect a relaxed driving style — but that’s part of the magic. Guests consistently love how approachable, cozy, and nostalgic she feels.
You’ll find everything you need for a smooth, memorable trip: a stocked kitchen, comfortable sleeping setups, privacy curtains, and the freedom to camp in places larger rigs can’t reach.
Reliability & Care
Goldie is well‑maintained and regularly serviced. She’s a vintage vehicle, but she’s treated with love — and it shows. If you appreciate character, simplicity, and the joy of classic travel, you’ll adore her.
Pick‑Up & Travel Area
Goldie is based in Victoria, BC, the perfect launch point for exploring Vancouver Island’s beaches, forests, lakes, and small towns. Delivery may be available — just ask.
Pets, Smoking & Rules
Summer 2026 (Major Festivals)
Several major festivals are scheduled across the region, including the Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival (June 19–21, Lake Cowichan), 39 Days of July (June 25 – Aug 2, Duncan), and the Islands Folk Festival (July 24–26, Duncan).
Other notable summer events include the Cultivate Music Festival (July 11–12, Gabriola Island), The Pachena Bay Music Fest (July 17–18, Pachena Bay), and the Filberg Festival (July 31 – Aug 2, Comox).
Sunfest Country Music Festival (July 30 – August 2, 2026): Laketown Ranch, Lake Cowichan.
Coombs Bluegrass Festival (July 31 – August 2, 2026): Coombs.
Mid Island Co-op Beachfest Rocks! (August 7–9, 2026): Parksville.
Nanaimo Blues Festival (August 6–9, 2026): Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo.
North Island Music Fest (August 21, 2026): Port McNeill.
Tofino Events
Key 2026 Tofino Festivals & Events
Pacific Rim Whale Festival (March 14–21, 2026): A major annual festival spanning Tofino, Ucluelet, and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. It celebrates the migration of Pacific Gray Whales with events like the Parade of Whales & Wonders, Chowder Chow Down, and Baleen Bash closing party.
Tofino Wine & Dine (June 6–7, 2026): Held on the front lawn of Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort, this event showcases British Columbia's culinary scene, wine, and local beverages.
Feast Tofino (Typically May): A multi-day culinary festival (noted as May 18–June 2 in past, likely similar in 2026) featuring guest chefs and boat-to-table dining.
Tofino Shorebird Festival (Typically Early May): Celebrates the migration of shorebirds with expert-led tours and workshops.
Tofino Public Market (Saturdays, May–September): Local arts, crafts,
and food producers gather, providing a consistent community event.
Tours
The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 263–300 km scenic loop on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, starting and ending in Victoria. This 1–3 day journey (usually driven counter-clockwise) covers Highway 14, Pacific Marine Road, and Highway 18, featuring rugged coastal landscapes, old-growth forests, beaches near Sooke, and the Cowichan Valley.
This is one of my favourite routes and there is lots of camping along the way. I always stop at Shirley Delicious for great food and vibes and then a stop at Sandcut beach for the waterfall on the beach to the left at the bottom of the trail. If you like surfing the next stop is Sombrio beach and then up to Port Renfrew where I love to camp on the beach. If the tide is low Botanical Beach is the best for underwater sealife in the tidal pools.Best camping is at Pacheedaht Campground
Address: 305 Pachidah Rd, Port Renfrew, BC V0S 1K0
There is also camping at Fairy Lake where you can use the SUPs.
Next stop is Gordon Bay Park with a sandy beach on Lake Cowichan perfect for camping.
If you are taking your time Lake Cowichan rents out inner tubes to float the day away on the Cowichan river.
From Lake Cowichan I head south to Duncan and always stop at The Garage for some delicious food and in the summer across the street is live music.
Goldstream has camping as well as Bamberton if you want to spend one last night before hitting Victoria.
Lots of hiking in Goldstream Park.
Sooke to Port Renfrew (Hwy 14 - West Coast Road): Known for "where the rainforest meets the sea," including stops at Sooke Potholes, French Beach, China Beach, and Botanical Beach.
Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan (Pacific Marine Road): A paved, winding, and scenic route through forests that connects the west coast to the inland lakes.
Cowichan Valley to Victoria (Hwy 18 & Trans-Canada Hwy): Features wineries, cideries, the town of Duncan, and the Cowichan Bay area.
Duration: While possible in one long day, a 2-3 day itinerary allows for enjoying the scenery and hiking trails.
Important Tips
Drive Time: The route is approximately 255-289 km long.
Preparation: Stock up on supplies (gas, food) in Sooke, as options are limited between Sooke and Port Renfrew.
Best Time: The route is enjoyable year-round, though popular in spring and summer.
No smoking
Pets considered (please inquire)
Local Island travel preferred
Treat Goldie with the same kindness she gives you
What Guests Say
Your messages show guests love:
The fully stocked kitchen
The cozy sleeping setup
The hammock and music inputs
The freedom of unlimited mileage
How perfect she is for exploring Vancouver Island
Goldie has already made many Island adventures unforgettable — now it’s your turn.
What's included•Pillows, sheets, down duvets, towels, robes & sandals
•Ear plugs & face wipes
•Full kitchen: stove, fridge, sink, cookware, dishes, utensils, spices
•Coffee, tea, French press, kettle
•Cleaning supplies & compostable bags
•Solar power + inverter for device charging
•First aid kit
•Curtains for privacy
•Hammock, lantern, headlamp, fire starter
•Two chairs & indoor dining table
•Heating & ceiling fan
•Bear spray & binoculars
•Roadside assistance
•Fast 45-min check-in + quick, easy return
RecommendationsDiscover Vancouver Island’s highlights: Tofino and Ucluelet beaches, the Juan de Fuca Trail, Mystic and Sombrio Beach, Cathedral Grove’s ancient forest, Sooke Potholes, East Sooke Park, Cowichan wineries, and Victoria’s Inner Harbour. If you need accommodation before or after your trip, your host also manages a cozy, high-rated Airbnb suite in Victoria—perfect for a smooth start to your adventure.Other things to noteGoldie is a well-loved 1985 Westfalia, so please drive with a gentle hand and give yourself extra time on hills. The pop-top and back door have classic quirks that require patience, and the awning must always be tied down at night. A walkthrough guide is provided. No smoking inside the van. Please return Goldie clean and with garbage removed.
The van is picked up at Menzies & Superior in the large parking lot.
1985 Volkswagen T3 Westfalia

Length

15 ft

Transmission

Manual

Fuel Type

Gasoline

Tank Size

15 gal

Gross Weight

3,460 lbs

Sleeps

4

Seatbelts

4

Sleeping arrangements

2 beds

Relaxing RV rental night: Person inside a warm, lit camper van. Campfire glows outside near an extended awning.. Volkswagen T3 Westfalia 1985
Step into this inviting RV rental: a comfy bed, compact kitchen, and driver's area visible, perfect for memorable road trips.. Volkswagen T3 Westfalia 1985

Full bed

1

Bunk bed

1

Host add-ons

Airport Pickup YYJ

NZ$115.90 each

See details

Beach chair

NZ$36.60 each

See details

Early Pickup

NZ$91.50 each

See details

Extra Bedding Set

NZ$36.60 each

See details

Late Drop Off

NZ$91.50 each

See details

Pet Cleaning Fee

NZ$91.50 each

See details
"Goldie" Vintage 1985 Westfalia: Retro Road Trip Machine

Popular choice! Viewed 129 times this month

Dates

Guest reviews
5

Excellent

9 reviews

Overall rating

5

4

3

2

1

Communication

5

Cleanliness

5

Maintenance

4.67

Value

5

Listing accuracy

5

Review summary

A
A
R

Flexible and highly informative

Cyrus accommodated pickup/drop-off times, was easy to work with, and provided thorough instructions with local Vancouver Island tips.

Easy to drive and reliable

Guests found the van easy to drive, maneuverable, and reliable, running without issues. It was well-equipped with amenities like bedding, chairs, fire pit, and games for a comfortable trip.

A
Andrew C.

July 2025

5

Flexible and maneuverable

A
Alyssa E.

July 2025

5

The cutest little van. Clean with everything you need for a couple days road trip. Easy to drive and the host was great to accommodate our pickup and drop off times the best they could. Highly reccomend and can’t wait to book again next year. Couldn’t make better memories than the ones driving through the island up to Tofino.

G
Graham D.

February 2025

5

We had an amazing time on our trip and our host was so easy to work with! The van drove extremely well and ran without a hitch. We had the best time and will be renting from these hosts again in the future :)

Features
1985 Volkswagen T3 Westfalia
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 seatbelts
  • Fresh water: 13.5 gal
  • Fuel type: Gas
  • Fuel capacity: 15 gal
  • Manual transmission
Amenities
  • Bath towels
  • Toilet paper
  • Solart
  • Audio Inputs
  • Radio
  • CD Player
  • Stove
  • Refrigerator
Nearby places to stay
Rules and policies
Goldie is a classic 1985 VW—drive gently and allow extra time on hills. Manual transmission: you must have at least 2 years of experience driving standard. Light, maintained gravel roads are permitted; no forest service or rough off-road terrain. Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands only. Always release the parking brake before driving. Secure the awning properly; never leave it open overnight without tie-downs. No smoking inside the van. Return the van clean and free of garbage. Follow all instructions provided in the walkthrough. Treat Goldie with care—she’s vintage and full of character.
  • Pet friendly
  • Music festival friendly
  • Tailgating friendly
  • No smoking
  • Unlimited mileage
  • No generator
Cancellation: Moderate
Frequently asked questions

Q.

Do you offer pick up at the airport?

A.

Yes for a minimal fee we can pick you up at the airport and then head into town for a 45 minute walk through.

Q.

Can I take Goldie on gravel roads?

A.

Yes—light, well-maintained gravel roads are fine. No forest service or rough off-road terrain.

Q.

Does Goldie have solar power?

A.

Yes—Goldie has a solar-powered house battery for charging devices and running the 12-volt cooler.

Q.

Can the van attend festivals?

A.

Yes—festivals and events are allowed as long as they are on Vancouver Island.

Meet your host, Cyrus

Superhost • Member since 2024

Cyrus is a Superhost

Superhosts are highly-rated and experienced, ensuring you have a fantastic outdoor experience.

My passion for VW campervans began as soon as I was old enough to drive. I bought my first Volkswagen bus in 1967 and drove straight to California, starting a lifetime of van-life adventures. Since then, I’ve crossed Canada six times, explored the U.S. from coast to coast, driven throughout Mexico, and even Hawaii, where I lived for several years. My most recent journey was shipping my Westfalia from Vancouver BC to Rotterdam and traveling across Europe and the British Isles in 2019. My vans have also been to Burning Man seven times, still carrying a bit of desert dust as a reminder of the memories made. VW campervans are truly one of the great loves of my life, and my next dream adventure is to drive off-road through the Baja Peninsula. After more than 50 years on the road, sharing these classic Westfalias with travelers visiting Vancouver Island feels natural. I enjoy helping guests experience safe, comfortable, unforgettable road trips across Canada’s most beautiful destinations.

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