Canada has a long history of both hospitality and ranching, especially in Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Quebec. No matter what you’re looking for in northern-climate ranches, Canada has so much to offer: amazing scenery, friendly and welcoming people, good prices and an exchange rate that has eased a bit in recent weeks (currently $78.8291 US Dollars is equal to 100 Canadian Dollars).

Its coastal province to our northwest, British Columbia (B.C.), has a wide selection including some of North America’s larges and oldest cattle ranches. I just got off the phone with Tyler Beckley, the president of the British Columbia Guest Ranch Association (BCGRA) and he gave me a good overview of everything from traditional dude & guest ranches to high end spa ranches.

“Canada is too often overlooked when it comes to finding a guest ranch vacation,” says Tyler. “While none of us in B.C. have a famous address, most people find that the people, scenery and experience make up the difference. B.C. ranches and Canadian ranches in general offer a great product, and currently at a bargain,” he notes. “If you listen to any travel writer,” Tyler adds, “they will tell you to look off the beaten path for the next great destination, and when it comes to guest ranches, that is Canada.”

We list information on six British Columbia ranches on the Ranchweb site: the luxury-oriented Echo Valley Ranch & Spa; the world-class and swanky Siwash Lake Ranch; the family and riding-focused Sundance Guest Ranch Ltd; the lovely, amenity-rich Three Bars Cattle & Guest Ranch (run by Tyler Beckley and his family); the brand new Tod Mountain Ranch; and the  Tsylos Park Lodge & Adventures located in pristine wilderness.

B.C. will be thrust into the world spotlight for the 2010 Olympic Games to be held at Whistler, so you can beat the crowds and visit B.C. this summer.

And elsewhere in Canada, there’s the Warner Guiding & Outfitting, Ltd. in Alberta and the place to go for wilderness tenting pack ridesor a rustic backcountry lodge ride; the fly-in Crown Jewel Resort Ranch in Nova Scotia for flying and fishing; and the horse-lovers’ paradise of Ranch 4 Saisons Guest Ranch & Spa Adventures in Quebec.

“With the expansive wilderness still available to us in Canada it is becoming the place to come and play,” says Tyler. “If you enjoy the truly unique culture yet want all of the comfort of travel to a country that speaks English and is safe, we’re a good bet,” Tyler Beckley continues.

In a few days, we’ll highlight individual ranches in Canada. Stay tuned!