2011 Vancouver Island Visitor Magazine

Vancouver Island

VISITOR 2011 Guide to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands

Inside: What to do How to get there Events & Attractions www.islandvisitor.ca

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Do on’t Miss The Boat.... • Amazing adventures await you on Victoria’s most recommended tour! • View our marine mammals in their wild & breathtaking natural environment • Enjoy fascinating Marine Biologist narration surrounded by spectacular scenery • The choice is yours ~ spacious, covered Ocean Cruisers or open Zodiacs • Experience Victoria’s #1 rated “Return Activityâ€? ~ the Ultimate BC Experience!

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Vancouver Island

VISITOR 2011 Guide to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands

Welcome to the Island ........................4 Ferries & Transportation .....................4 Island Agri-touring ............................ 18 First Nations Heritage ...................... 19 Golf ......................................................... 20 Parks and Camping .......................... 21 Attractions ......................................... 38 Calendar of Events ........................... 40 Business Directory............................. 42

MAPS Vancouver Island ........................22 / 23 The Capital Region ................................8 Greater Victoria ................................... 11 Downtown Victoria ............................ 15 Nanaimo ................................................ 24 Parksville/Qualicum .......................... 27 Courtenay/Comox .............................. 33 Campbell River .................................... 34

SOUTH ISLAND Sidney ........................................................7 Saanich Peninsula & Cordova Bay ...7 Victoria ......................................................7 Oak Bay .....................................................8 Esquimalt ..................................................8 West Shore ...............................................8 Sooke and Beyond ............................. 13 GROUP PUBLISHER: Penny Sakamoto

South Cowichan ................................. 13 Duncan/Cowichan ............................. 13 Chemainus ............................................ 14 Ladysmith .............................................. 17

250.753.2373 #8 Pirates Lane, Nanaimo

CENTRAL ISLAND Nanaimo ................................................ 25 Oceanside (Including Parksville & Qualicum Beach) .............................. 26 Port Alberni ......................................... 28 Bamfield ................................................ 28 Ucluelet ................................................. 29 Tofino ...................................................... 29 Pacific Rim National Park Reserve 30

NORTH ISLAND Comox Valley ....................................... 33 Campbell River & Quadra Island .... 34 Gold River, Nootka Sound & Tahsis ................................................... 34 Sayward, Nimpkish Valley & Zeballos .............................................. 35 Telegraph Cove, Port McNeill, Sointula & Alert Bay ........................... 36 Port Alice & Port Hardy ..................... 37

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING: Oliver Sommer

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Annemarie Rindt Lynne Bain Patty Doering Linda Tesser

EDITOR: Jennifer Blyth, jblyth@telus.net

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR: Bruce Hogarth

ADMINISTRATION: Sandi Burchill Kathryn Jodrell DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Lily Chan Sean McLaughlin

Advertising Inquiries, email Oliver Sommer at osommer@blackpress.ca

THE COVER Explore the diverse scenery just waiting to be discovered on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

ISLAND VISITOR MAGAZINE IS A DIVISION OF BLACK PRESS 818 BROUGHTON STREET, VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA V8W 1E4 TEL: 250-381-3484 FAX: 250-386-2624 info@islandvisitor.ca www.islandvisitor.ca

Enjoy a 10 minute harbour cruise aboard the Protection Island ferry from downtown Nanaimo or arrive and dock at the pub in your own vessel.

Featuring seasonal menus with something for everyone, live local music entertainment, sailboat nights and one of the greatest views anywhere.

Open year around from 11:30 a.m. until the last ferry runs.

See our web site for current menus, promotions & ferry schedules.

dockrocks1@telus.net

ALTHOUGH EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION, VISITOR MAGAZINE CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENCES ARISING FROM ERRORS OR OMISSIONS. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN CONSENT FROM THE PUBLISHER.

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 3

VA N CO U V E R I S L A N D |

WELCOME TO THE ISLAND...

What You Need

TO KNOW

V

isitor Information: Throughout Vancouver Island, most communities have Visitor Centres where trained staff can answer your travel questions and provide information on accommodation, services, attractions, activities and community events. In this publication, phone numbers and addresses for most Visitor Centres are listed with each community’s information.

For general information about touring in British Columbia and accommodation reservations, call 1-800-HELLO-BC. Telephones: The area code on Vancouver Island and for all phone numbers in this publication is generally (250) unless otherwise indicated. For local directory assistance, call 411. For long distance directory assistance, call 1-(area code)555-1212.

In case of emergency, call 911.

The HST is a value-added tax of 12 per cent applicable to most purchases regardless of whether the buyer is a Canadian resident or a visitor.

Driving the Island: • Speed limits on Vancouver Island are posted in kilometres per hour.

• Approximate Driving Speed Conversions: 30km/hr = 20mph 40km/hr = 25mph 50km/hr = 30mph 60km/hr = 40mph 80km/hr = 50mph 100km/hr = 60mph • For a distance chart of Island communities, see the map in the centre of this publication.

• Vehicle seat belts and motorcycle and bicycle helmets are compulsory at all times.

• It is illegal to use a hand-held device such as a telephone while driving.

4 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

BC FERRIES:

Cruising – Island style Whether sailing to major centres such as Victoria and Vancouver or smaller, out-ofthe-way escapes such as Quadra Island and Powell River, BC Ferries has been transporting locals and visitors for more than 40 years.

But more than an efficient transportation solution, the ferries offer a spectacularly scenic experience and a chance to experience Vancouver Island’s breathtaking views and charming communities.

Since beginning its ferry service to Vancouver Island in 1960, BC Ferries has grown into one of the largest ferry systems in the world, boasting a fleet of 36 vessels serving up to 47 ports of call on 25 routes throughout coastal British Columbia.

Vessels carry both vehicles and passengers and the newest – Coastal ships, Renaissance, Inspiration and Celebration – take guests to the next level of comfort

and service. The Spirit of British Columbia and the Spirit of Vancouver Island measure 560-feet in length – two football fields back to back! New on the Spirit vessels is the C Spa, a mini-spa featuring licensed estheticians and spa practitioners whose services include manicures, pedicures and massages. (Walk-ins welcome; cash only) These larger ferries serve on major routes between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island and feature a variety of food services, gift shops, shipto-shore telephones, laptop hook-ups, comfortable seating lounges and outdoor seating areas, video games, preschool play areas and elevators.

While most Vancouver Island visitors arrive with BC Ferries, no matter how you get here, you’ll want to take the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of British Columbia’s coastal waterways. Possibilities range from

Nature Outings & Events For Nature Lovers of All Ages, For Every Season

FREE Guided Nature Hikes & Walks Drop-In Events * Nature Centres Capital Regional District | Regional Parks www.crd.bc.ca/parks | 250.478.3344

day trips to beautiful destinations such as the northern and southern Gulf Islands to popular northern cruises that include the awe-inspiring Inside Passage (Port Hardy to Prince Rupert), the Queen Charlotte Islands and the Discovery Coast Passage, each providing access to the stunningly scenic northern British Columbia!

Please note: Reservations are available for a fee on major route sailings between Vancouver (Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay) and Vancouver Island (Swartz Bay, Duke Point or Departure Bay) and between Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast (Horseshoe Bay to Langdale).

For BC Ferries information, including schedules, fares, reservations and tripplanning tools, visit www.bcferries.com or call 1-888-BCFERRY (1-888-223-3779) toll-free throughout North America, or 250-386-3431 in Victoria. From your cell phone, call *BCF (*223) on Rogers or Telus Mobility networks.

Ferry Service from/to the U.S.

Coastal Explorations Discovery Coast Passage – From sheltered inlets surrounded by evergreencovered islands to towering fjords home to eagles, dolphins and whales, this trip offers a stunning West Coast experience.

Offered during the summer from Port Hardy on the northern tip of the Island, mid-Coast stops include Bella Bella, Denny Island and Klemtu. Reservations are advised for this trip. Some spring and fall sailings to specific destinations are also available.

Inside Passage, Port Hardy to Prince Rupert – Enjoy a leisurely summer day cruise through the world-renowned Inside Passage, travelling through scenic inlets, islands and majestic Coastal mountains. Reservations advised.

Need more ideas or information? Call 1-888-BCFERRY (1-888-223-3779) or visit www.bcferries.com

• Blackball Transport’s MV Coho is a year-

TONY WAKELIN PHOTO

round auto/passenger ferry between Victoria, BC and Port Angeles, Wa with four sailings daily during the peak summer season.

For more information, call the office nearest you: 250-386-2202 (Victoria) or 360-457-4491 (Port Angeles) or visit www.ferrytovictoria.com • The Clipper offers high-speed, passengeronly service from Victoria’s Inner Harbour to Seattle, Wa. For schedules, visit www. clippervacations.com or call 1-800-8882535.

• Washington State Ferries operates the Anacortes Ferry, which leaves from a terminal just south of Sidney, and serves the San Juan Islands and Anacortes, Wa. For more information, see www.wsdot. wa.gov/Ferries

Air Service • Harbour Air – Soak in the Island’s beauty from the air with floatplane service to the Gulf Islands, Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo. Scheduled and charter flights, as well as adventure tours are available. Call 1-800-665-0212 or 250-385-9131 or see www.harbourair.com (See ad page 5).

PROUD TO BE

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 5

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SOUTH ISLAND

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f you were to set out the components of your ideal vacation, what would they look like? Outdoor adventure?

Arts and entertainment? World-class shopping and dining? Here on southern Vancouver Island, the options are many and today, with Island Visitor Magazine in hand, the region is yours to discover.

Sidney Just minutes from Victoria International Airport, the South Island’s main BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay and ferry from Anacortes, Wa, the seaside town of Sidney is often the first stop for visitors arriving on Vancouver Island.

Lined with colourful flower displays, benches, public art and a delightful array of shopping diversions, Beacon Avenue is Sidney’s main street. Dotted with book shops – Sidney is known as Booktown – boutiques and restaurants, follow Beacon to the waterfront to enjoy picturesque ocean views and more possibilities. The Port of Sidney Marina is a beautiful fullservice facility attracting boaters and visitors in search of adventures such as whale watching, kayak rentals, harbour cruises, scuba diving and fishing charters. You’ll also find family attractions such as the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre – terrific attraction featuring the wonders of the ocean offshore.

Other fine Sidney-area attractions include the Mary Winspear Centre, with a great line-up of live theatre performances and special events, Sidney Museum, Mineral World and Scratch Patch, the BC Aviation Museum and Sidney Spit Marine Park, accessible by a passenger ferry that departs from the dock at the foot of Beacon Avenue.

Saanich Peninsula and Cordova Bay Stretching from Sidney south to Victoria, the Saanich Peninsula is a beautiful region of farmland, parkland and waterfront. Highway 17 (the Pat Bay Highway) is the fastest route into Victoria,

JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

but sightseers will want to take one of the earlier exits to explore the quaint communities and lovely scenery along quieter country roads.

Peninsula highlights include Heritage Acres, a 12-hectare park with restored farm buildings, museum and nature trails; the world-famous Butchart Gardens near Brentwood Bay; Victoria Butterfly Gardens, a tropical garden with free-flying butterflies; and the Centre of the Universe at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. Outdoor enthusiasts will want to explore Island View Beach, a popular sunbathing, beachcombing and bird-watching spot, and Elk and Beaver Lake Park, a destination for swimmers, fishermen, paddlers and runners who enjoy the 10km loop trail. The Peninsula is also home to several fine golf courses, including Glen Meadows, near the airport, and wine lovers will want to explore the growing number of award-winning wineries.

Overlooking Haro Strait with views of Mount Baker, Cordova Bay is a gorgeous neighbourhood with easy access to downtown Victoria. Several cosy bed and breakfasts are located here, plus two golf courses, dining and a charming collection of shops known as Mattick’s Farm.

For Sidney and Saanich Peninsula details, call 250-656-0525. A Visitor Centre is located 2 km from Swartz Bay

Ferry Terminal at 10382 Pat Bay Hwy. (Highway 17). A second Visitor Centre is at A-2295 Ocean Ave. in Sidney and is open only to greet passengers arriving on Washington State Ferries from Anacortes.

Victoria and Adjacent Communities British Columbia’s capital city is surrounded by a spectacular natural paradise of rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, ocean and mountain views, forests and parkland.

The often-photographed Inner Harbour is home to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Royal BC Museum, the Legislative Buildings and the Causeway, a people-watching hotspot where street performers entertain passers-by. A busy transportation hub for floatplanes and ferries, many outdoor adventures also start here, including kayaking and wildlifewatching tours.

Ideal for touring on foot, downtown Victoria’s impressive restored heritage buildings house shops, art galleries, restaurants and attractions, such as the Maritime Museum of BC in Bastion Square. Find a vibrant selection of shops brimming with everything from international favourites to locally crafted specialties only available here, while world-class restaurants serve a delicious array of cuisine, from fresh seafood to exciting CONT. ON PAGE 8

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Established at the turn-of-the-century

by Victorians of British descent, Oak Bay is just minutes from downtown and well worth an afternoon to explore. Retaining much of its original British flavour, the community is a favourite for walking and biking. Find Tudor-style buildings, cosy tea rooms, resplendent gardens and a diversity of shops, mainly clustered in the Oak Bay Village. Other highlights include the Oak Bay Marina, Willows Beach, Anderson Hill Park, Cattle Point and Uplands Park. Cyclists will enjoy the Seaside Touring Route, leading from the downtown’s Inner Harbour, past Beacon Hill Park, along the waterfront, into Oak Bay, and beyond to Uplands and the adjacent residential community of Saanich.

CONT. ON PAGE 10

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Drive about 15 minutes from downtown Victoria to the growing West Shore region, featuring farmland, beaches, marinas, lakes, parks and wilderness areas surrounding several urban centres. Comprising the communities of View Royal, Colwood, Langford, the Highlands and Metchosin, outdoor activities include kayaking, hiking, cycling, fishing, boating and beachcombing at such natural treasures as Goldstream Provincial Park, Witty’s

For information about Victoria and neighbouring communities, call 250-953-2033, see www.tourismvictoria. com or visit the Visitor Centre at the Inner Harbour at 812 Wharf St.

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ethnic flavours.

Historic neighbourhoods surround downtown: James Bay is home to historic homes, the Ogden Point Breakwater – perfect for a stroll out over the water – Fisherman’s Wharf and Emily Carr House, the birthplace of BC’s best-loved artist; in Rockland find heritage mansions, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and Craigdarroch Castle; Fairfield is a lovely residential neighbourhood with tree-lined streets, the expansive Gonzales Beach and the charming Abkhazi Garden; and Beacon Hill Park is a peaceful oasis steps from downtown, filled with gardens, duck ponts, play areas and a seasonal petting zoo.

Beyond the immediate downtown, Victoria is a hub of arts and culture, boasting some of the finest art galleries in the country displaying the work of both local and international artists. As for entertainment, Victoria has it all – theatre, dance, opera, symphony and an incredible lineup of exciting annual festivals. For details on what’s coming up, see the Calendar of Events on page 40.

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CONT. FROM PAGE 7

West Shore

naval base and dockyard in Canada. Drive or enjoy a leisurely waterfront stroll to enjoy highlights such as the waterside Saxe Point and McAulay parks, scenic walking paths, historic military sites, base tours and a naval museum.

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Victoria’s Finest

Victoria’s only 5 Star Ocean Front Resort It’s all about an appetite for new experiences. Spectacular ocean front dining in the SeaGrille, soothing spa treatments and eco cruises to the world famous Butchart Gardens.

Accommodation

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Cougar’s Crag Extreme B&B - Vancouver Island’s premier pet-friendly accommodation - Stunning post ‘n beam set on a 15 acre forested ridge overlooking the Olympic Peninsula and Matheson Lake Regional Park - Self-contained, split level loft bedroom units internet/satellite TV/DVD

- Minutes from the Sooke Hills & downtown Victoria

1155 Woodley Ghyll Dr. Victoria, BC V9C 4H9

1.888.808.CRAG (2724 ) info@cougarscrag.com www.cougarscrag.com

Bikes, complimentary continental breakfast, computer access, laundry facilities, kitchen units, pet friendly.

ADMIRAL INN - 257 Belleville St.

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- Hundreds of trails for hiking & cycling; nearby zipline, golf, whalewatching, ďŹ shing

Convenient Inner Harbour location, adjacent to U.S. Ferries, shops, attractions, restaurants and night life.

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"EAUTIFULLY THEMED GUEST ROOMS 7OOD BURNING FIREPLACES *ACUZZI BATHS #OMPLIMENTARY SPARKLING WINE CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES 'OURMET IN ROOM BREAKFASTS BLOCKS FROM DOWNTOWN 6ICTORIA "#

1-888-383-0327 www.humboldthouse.com

Phone/Fax: 250-388-6267 Toll Free: 1-888-823-6472 www.admiral.bc.ca admiral@admiral.bc.ca

SOUTH ISLAND

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Lagoon and Matheson Lake. Cyclists and hikers can explore via the Galloping Goose Trail which extends from downtown Victoria through diverse landscapes to the site of a former gold mining town north of Sooke. Take in the West Coast

adventures at WildPlay Element Parks then while away the hours at the West Shore’s restaurants and cultural attractions, such as Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites and Hatley Park and Gardens at Royal Roads University. Not surprisingly, the region has also attracted numerous artists, and many welcome visitors year-round to their working studios – discover their creativity

during a leisurely drive along rural roads or check out some of the many events on the busy arts calendar. This is also a growing shopping area, with many favourite names setting up shop at several centres.

For details, call the West Shore Chamber of Commerce at 250-478-1130 or see www.westshore.bc.ca The West Shore Visitor Centre is at 2830 Aldwynd Rd.

Shop Downtown Victoria ne of Victoria’s most beautiful shops.

The Button & Needlework Boutique offers an outstanding ing ns, selection of luxury knitting yarns and accessories, ribbons, s. needlepoint kits, crewelwork and embroidery supplies. ents You’ll also find fine needlework tools, books, embellishments n and and incomparable buttons from around the world. Button de.

Needlework Boutique is truly sublime. We ship worldwide.

250-384-8781

614 View St. Victoria • www.buttonedup.com • 1-877-384-8781

688 Broughton Street Victoria (250) 893-1349 www.magictrick.com Murray’s Trick & Joke Shop is Victoria’s home for FUN! Come and find magic tricks, jokes, gags, novelties, and costumes galore.

There’s something for everyone. We are located just 2 blocks from the Empress Hotel - right in the heart of beautiful downtown Victoria.

Come visit our beautiful showroom!

PINE LIGHTING

YOUR AFFORDABLE LIGHTING STORE

790 Spruce Ave, Victoria

250.475.0105

Offices Closets • ooms Kids R oom Sewing Rabinets Custom C

James Bay Let us you show increahseow to useable your space!

MURPHY WA L L - B E D S

Vancouver Island’s Only Authorized Murphy Bed Dealers

30755 Douglas Street, Victoria 2250-744-2195 www.murphybeds-victoria.com

Full Service Drug Store Minutes from the inner habour!

Prescriptions, scriptions travel needs, needs eds motion sickness remedies, Post Office and more.

113-230 Menzies Street Victoria, Phone 250-383-7196 Mon-Fri 8-8 Sat. Sun. & Holidays 9-6

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Fishing charters 12 months of the year?

You bet!

WING’S RESTAURANT

250-385-5564

3319 Douglas Street, Victoria toll free 1-866-915-4254 or 250-475-4969

info@fishingvictoria.com

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Friendly neighbourhood diner serving fresh fish with a fluffy light batter that melts in your mouth, as well as oysters, prawns, calamari, and deep fried perogies. Eat in or take out.

Open Tues to Sat 11:30am to 7:30pm Closed Sun, Mon and Stat Holidays.

Haultain Fish and Chips 1127 Haultain St. Victoria

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Salmon and halibut fishing in the famous waters of Victoria, Sooke and Oak Bay. Departing from Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

Also fishing Port Renfrew May thru September. Cowichan River fly fishing & Steelhead - Spring & Fall.

Business hours from 11:00am -10:00pm 90 Gorge Rd. West, Victoria, B.C.

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EAT IN, TAKE OUT or DELIVERY

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Nestled along a quiet, residential street just minutes from downtown, our beautiful gardens, charming rooms and fine food will ensure your Victoria experience is authentic and luxurious. $149-$299 dble occ. Includes gourmet breakfast!

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998 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC • www.beaconsfieldinn.com

SOUTH ISLAND Sooke and Beyond A little farther west along Highway 14, the community of Sooke is known for its vibrant community, friendly hospitality, outdoor adventure and talented artists and artisans. Kayaking, cycling, fishing and hiking are popular here and a highly recommended way to experience the spectacular West Coast scenery.

Don’t miss the Sooke Region Museum, Adrena Line Zipline Tours for a fast-paced trip through the West Coast forest, Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, one of the South Island’s most popular summer swimming areas, and East Sooke Park, a stunning coastal park with hiking trails for every skill level.

Beyond Sooke, the landscape grows even wilder, with lush coastal rainforest and dazzling beaches, such as French Beach, Mystic Beach, and Botanical Beach – home to amazing rock formations and rich tidal pools. The 47-km Juan de Fuca Marine Trail traces the shoreline from China Beach to Botanical Beach and is divided into sections, allowing hikers to choose a portion of the trail as a day trip or to tackle the whole route over about three days.

For information about the Sooke Region, call 250-642-6351 or 1-866-888-4748.

The Visitor Centre is located at the Sooke Region Museum at 2070 Phillips Rd. South Cowichan The spectacular Malahat Drive is the section of Highway 1 between Goldstream Provincial Park and the Cowichan region and offers breathtaking views of Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula and the Gulf Islands. Watch for the turnoff for the viewing area at the summit which offers northbound drivers the opportunity to stop safely.

Continue north to Mill Bay, a pleasant waterside community with a full-service marina. Across the highway is the turnoff for Shawnigan Lake, a cosy lakeside community popular for watersports, and Cobble Hill, with lovely shops and picturesque farms.

This gorgeous area is also famous for its vineyards and produces some of the finest wines and ciders on Vancouver Island.

Many of the facilities offer sampling, tours, picnic areas and wine shops. Agriculture

and restaurants, including the region’s renowned Hilary’s Cheese. The village has also made a name for itself internationally with its recent designation as the first Cittaslow town in North America (“Cittaslow,” or Slow City, is part of the Slow Food movement).

For information, call the South Cowichan Chamber of Commerce, 250-743-3566. The Visitor Centre is located in the Mill Bay Centre at #368-2720 Mill Bay Rd. Duncan/Cowichan JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

tours are also growing in the Cowichan Region, where farm markets and tours attract more and more visitors.

Back on Highway 1, a bit farther north and off the highway, Cowichan Bay is perched over a natural deep-sea harbour.

Many of the buildings in this charming village – including a unique maritime museum – extend over the water and are supported by pilings. Along the waterfront, you’ll find a variety of gift shops

Duncan is the commercial centre of the Cowichan Region and a hub of First Nations art and culture. “The City of Totems” boasts some 80 totem poles, including 40 in the quaint downtown area.

Pick up a totem tour map at the Visitor Centre or enjoy a free guided tour in the summer. The Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre is among the region’s most impressive attractions and offers insight into the culture of the area’s First People. The BC Forest Discovery Centre is CONT. ON PAGE 14

7*$503*"’4 -&(&/%"3: -"/%."3,

Located in the heart of Victoria, Craigdarroch Castle was completed in 1890 and is now a historic house museum. Lavish Victorian era furnishings and decor, exquisite stained glass, and detailed woodwork carved by artisans of days gone by....these all combine to create a warm and expansive entertainment experience.

When you’re finished take time to browse the Gift Shop and relax in the Castle grounds before moving on to your next destination.

(Please note there are 87 stairs and no elevators)

1050 Joan Crescent (off Fort St.) 250-592-5323

www.thecastle.ca

Open daily for self guided tours: 10:00am – 4:30pm Extended hours June 15th to Labour day: 9:00am - 7:00pm Tour maps available in seven languages and I Spy maps for children ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 13

SOUTH ISLAND

South Island continued‌

Great places to explore from Duncan include the Lake Cowichan District with CONT. FROM PAGE 13 its freshwater lakes, parks, campgrounds another highlight, with its 40-hectare park and friendly communities; the oceanside villages of Maple Bay and Genoa Bay; and with hiking trails, forestry displays and a steam train. The Pacific Northwest Raptors Crofton, a forestry town with hiking trails, fishing and a BC Ferries terminal where you Educational Centre is dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey and features can board a ferry to Saltspring Island. interesting displays and demonstrations.

For information, call the DuncanBird-watchers will also love the Somenos Cowichan Chamber of Commerce Marsh Conservation Area, home to more at 250-746-4636 or 1-888-303-3337; than 200 species. the Visitor Centre is located at 381A

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Trans Canada Hwy. For details on the Cowichan Lake District, call 250-749-3244.

Chemainus One of the most visited towns on Vancouver Island, Chemainus is renowned for the many professionally painted murals and sculptures beautifully depicting its history and culture. Its picturesque streets are lined with dozens of small shops, galleries and restaurants, anchored by the Chemainus Theatre, a star attraction featuring live, year-round theatre. This high-spirited community also boasts a great line-up of family events, especially between May and September, plus golfing, cycling, steam train rides, the Chemainus Valley Museum and daytrips to Thetis and Kuper Islands.

For information, call the Chemainus Visitor Centre at 250-246-3944. Visit the Centre at 9796 Willow St. in Chemainus.

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SOUTH ISLAND PEMBROKE

DOWNTOWN VICTORIA

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PLACES OF INTEREST & ATTRACTIONS 1 Ghostly Walks 2 Helmcken House

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ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 15

SOUTH ISLAND

Attractions Outdoor adventures?

World-class museums?

We have it all and more!

Beasley’s Fishing Charters Victoria BC Canada Tel: 250-381-8000 Toll Free:1-866-259-1111 info@beasleysfishingcharters.com www.beasleysfishingcharters.com Beasley’s Fishing Charters is proud to offer first class professional fishing adventures off beautiful Vancouver Island, in Victoria BC. We provide born and raised local guides and only the best boats and equipment available!

Whether we’re fishing salmon, halibut, or cod in the Pacific Ocean, or drift fishing down one of our pristine rivers for Steelhead Trout or salmon; we will thrill you with the fishing trip of a lifetime! It is a sport anyone can enjoy and take part in. We welcome all ages, male and female, from the seasoned pros to the novice beginners.

Ghostly Walks Tours start outside the Visitor Information Centre 812 Wharf Street, Victoria Tel: 250-384-6698 www.discoverthepast.com

Victoria’s famous ghost tour includes Old Town’s most haunted places. Our 90-minute walking tours will thrill you with stories of eccentric characters, heroic deeds, intrigue, love, humour, hangings and murder. Take one, if you dare!

May 1 to Oct. 31 tours every night. Nov. 1 to April 30 Fridays and Saturdays.

The Bug Zoo 631 Courtney St, Victoria Tel: 384-BUGS (2847) www.bugzoo.com

Welcome to the amazing world of insects and arachnids! Discover more than 50 fascinating species of LIVE giant tropical insects and arachnids, including Canada’s largest Leafcutter Ant Farm. The knowledgeable “Bug Ambassadors” will reveal the exotic secrets of this hidden kingdom and provide interactive and hands-on fun for the more adventurous. Imagine holding a tickling 400-leg millipede that stretches the length of your forearm!

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites 250-478-5849 parkscanada.gc.ca/fortroddhill Peek through original gun barrels, venture into intriguing underground magazines, and find camouflaged searchlight emplacements... Come explore Fort Rodd Hill, a century-old coast artillery fort.

Fisgard is the oldest lighthouse on the west coast. Step inside, play with its brand-new interactive exhibits and marvel at the stories of its valiant keepers. Special events are planned throughout the year; check the website for further information. Only 15 minutes west of downtown Victoria.

250.480.4887 | imaxvictoria.com

144 annual th

SAANICH FAIR Great Entertainment, Food & Fun for the Whole Family

Sept. 3-5 2011

www.saanichfair.ca

250.652.3314 CAMP QWANOES

Westshore Family Fun Park 1089 Langford Parkway City Centre Park

250-391-1738 www.familyfunpark.ca Visit Langford’s largest and greatest Family Fun Park at City Centre Park. Our multi-themed Mini-Golf course and PlayZone are a perfect idea for a fun and exciting day. Have a birthday coming up? Consider having your child’s birthday party here. We have a Splash Park, Outdoor Skating, Balladium and a full concession.

Many great affordable packages!

Victoria’s Men’s Newcomers Club Tel: 250-294-0933 www.vmnc.ca

Come and enjoy our social club, where you can meet new people, and participate in activities ranging from golf, tennis, billiards, bridge, public affairs, investment club and so much more. We host monthly luncheon meetings and several annual special events. Fun, challenging, and full of social opportunities! Look forward to seeing you.

Summer Camp For All Ages Crofton, BC Canada (One hour north of Victoria) Toll Free: 1-888-997-9266 www.qwanoes.ca

Jump into the adventure and let friendship fill each day!

Experience a world of discovery, all with an amazing staff.

What makes a week so special? A staff team who love kids and want them to discover what real life is all about (not to mention our 75 activities, All-Star Games, Q-Town, Qwanoes Beach and the indescribable Qwanoes spirit!)

Enjoy the best of a Canadian westcoast summer!

SOUTH ISLAND

Victoria Airport Sidney Relax in comfort In beautiful Sidney by the Sea PHOTO COURTESY LADYSMITH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Ladysmith Historic Ladysmith, once a shipping port for coal, is now a lovely little seaside town that has earned provincial and national awards for its downtown revitalization project and beautiful gardens.

Head outdoors for fishing, kayaking, golfing, hiking and cycling, relax in Transfer Beach Park – great for kids and adults alike – or stroll the Ladysmith Heritage Walk. This picturesque community is blessed with numerous artists and artisans, or discover a bounty of treasures at one of the unique boutiques or antique shops.

Visiting in December? Don’t miss the town’s amazing display of Christmas lights illuminating the streets and houses.

Visit the Ladysmith online at www. ladysmithcofc.com. Find the Ladysmith Visitor Centre at 411B First Ave.

Free Continental Breakfast • Free Hi-speed internet • Heated Outdoor Pool • Kitchenette Suites • Pet Friendly • Courtesy Shuttle from Airport & Ferries

Toll Free 1-866-656-1176 2280 Beacon Avenue, Sidney www.airporttravelodge.com TRAVELODGE CENTRE LIQUOR STORE Open 9am - 11pm Every Day

The Charles Dickens A Cozy English Pub Serving Lunch and Dinner

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 17

AG R I - TO U R I S M

FARMS, FESTIVALS

& other foodie fun JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO (MAIN) INSET PHOTO COURTESY COMOX VALLEY SHELLFISH FESTIVAL

Sidney-by-the-Sea: Closest Best Western to Butchart Gardens & BC Ferries

• Close to Butchart Gardens and Butterfly Gardens • Minutes to BC, Washington State Ferries and Victoria International Airport • Right across the street from the Mary Winspear Centre • Long-term rates with kitchens available for winter season • Whirlpool, sauna, fitness equipment • Smitty’s Family Restaurant on site

Best Western PLUS Emerald Isle Motor Inn 2306 Beacon Avenue Sidney, BC V8L 1X2 250.656.4441

1.800.315.3377 bwemeraldisle.com Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. ©2011 Best Western International, Inc. All rights reserved.

I

magine a picnic lunch filled with the freshest farm flavours, complemented by artisanal cheese, still-warm baking and local meats, and a glass of wine grown and bottled at the winery just steps away.

It’s all possible here on Vancouver Island where fields of berries, vegetables and herbs, orchards and vineyards are part of what makes Island living second to none.

Learning how these products are produced has become increasingly popular with both residents and visitors.

Farm tours are available in many Island communities, particularly Victoria, Duncan and the Comox Valley. Visit one of the Island’s many farm markets for an easy, fun way to access a wide variety of local products at one convenient location. Markets are found in most communities – destination markets include the Moss Street, Sidney Summer and Peninsula markets in Greater Victoria, the Duncan Market in the Cowichan Valley, Salt Spring’s Saturday Market and the Nanaimo, Comox Valley and Campbell River Farmer’s Markets.

Vancouver Island, particularly in the south, but stretching through the Gulf

Island View Beach Regional Park RV & Tent Campground • Beachfront self-contained campground within a regional conservation area • Conveniently located near ferry, airport, multi-use trails and downtown Victoria • Affordable rates from $15-$20/night, May 20 to September 5, 2011 www.crd.bc.ca/parks | 250.478.3344

18 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

Islands, the Central Island and into the Comox Valley, is one of Canada’s fastest growing wine regions. Sample some of the best local vintages with a self-guided or organized tour. In addition to wine tastings and tours, many of the wineries also offer views over a picnic-perfect landscape and dining opportunities. Prefer something bubbly? The Island is also home to an award-winning craft brewing industry, along with several cideries, and even a meadery or two.

Renowned chefs are busy throughout the region, connecting farm to table by incorporating and featuring the freshest local ingredients from land and sea.

It’s little surprise that a number of festivals have grown up with the Island’s agristourism industry. Highlights include: • The Island Chefs’ Collaborative’s Local Food Festival is in Victoria June 12 • The Comox Valley Shellfish Festival June 17 & 18 • Taste, Victoria’s third annual festival of food and wine, July 21 to 24 • The North Saanich Flavour Trail, Aug. 20 & 21, a self-guided tour of Saanich Peninsula farms and restaurants.

F I R S T N AT I O N S

Discover Vancouver Island’s ancient cultures

O

n Northern Vancouver Island, in the small community of Alert Bay on Cormorant Island, visitors wanting to explore the Island’s amazing First Nations culture can visit the world-famous U’mista Cultural Centre, featuring the Potlach Collection, an amazing display of masks and ceremonial regalia.

Accessible by BC Ferry from Port McNeill, Alert Bay features July and August dance performances by T’sasała Cultural Group, a Big House and totem poles throughout the community.

It’s just one of the many opportunities to experience the ancient First Nations cultures of Vancouver Island.

Rich in tradition, Aboriginal history comes alive at the Royal BC Museum, on Victoria’s Inner Harbour – don’t miss the totems in Thunderbird Park next door – and the Big House experience inside the museum.

Around the harbour, find the Signs of Lekwungen. Carved by Songhees artist Butch Dick, the Signs mark seven places of cultural significance to the Lekwungen, known today as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations, and the opportunity to learn more about these remarkable people.

Pick up a map at the Visitor Centre or visit www.victoria.ca Over the Malahat, Duncan’s Quw’utsun’

SOUTH ISLAND

SHARON TIFFIN PHOTO

Cultural and Conference Centre offers interpretive tours, demonstrations and authentic native cuisine. Downtown, explore the town’s quaint streets, taking in more than 80 totems and a good selection of First Nations art galleries. The Aboriginal-owned Cherry Point Vineyards is an excellent choice for wine-lovers – stop for lunch or the West Coast Salmon Experi-

ence, available from May to September.

Visit Nanaimo’s Petroglyph Park to see ancient carvings in stone and at the Nanaimo District Museum take in the interactive Snunéymuxw exhibit, learning about textiles, basketry, trade items, fishing tools and more. Children can try on a “discovery backpack” and explore this culture through exercises and puzzles while the petroglyph workstation allows visitors to create etchings of local petroglyphs.

Head west to Tofino for a coastal adventure blending whale, marine and wildlife watching tours with First Nations history and culture, along with a variety of art galleries and studios.

In Courtenay, check out the Big House and I-Hos Native Gallery and don’t miss the First Nations exhibits in the Courtenay and District Museum. The Museum at Campbell River offers an extensive First Nations gallery that includes the outstanding theatre presentation Treasures of Siwidi, in which masks depict the adventures of the Kwakwaka’wakw ancestor, Siwidi, who journeyed to the Undersea World and encountered a host of supernatural creatures.

Farther north, visit Albert Bay and, near Port Hardy, the Copper Maker Gallery in Fort Rupert Village, the heart of Kwagu’l territory, on the site of an ancient village and now a working artists’ gallery.

Accommodations

Marion’s Bed & Breakfast 1730 Taylor Street Victoria, BC V8R 3E9 250-592-3070 marions-bnb@shaw.ca ‘A Home Away from Home Welcome’ awaits you at Marion’s.

Affordable, comfortable, clean and cozy accommodation. Full delicious breakfast changes daily. Lonely Planet recommended, also under B.C. Tourism and Hello BC.com 3 Rooms: Single $50; Double $85 to $90. Add’l person $30. e-mail marions-bnb@shaw.ca

Bedford Regency Hotel Victoria’s Downtown Boutique Hotel Telephone: (250) 384-6835 Fax: (250) 386-8930 Located in the heart of the business and shopping district, while just a 5 min. short walk to Victoria’s Inner. The Bedford embodies old world charm and understated elegance. Each of our guest rooms features captivating decor, and the year round comfort of goose-down duvets.

• Complimentary coffee & tea • Complimentary high speed (Wireless) Internet Reservations: Toll free 1-800-665-6500 E-mail: frontdesk@bedfordregency.com

The Lodge at Weirs Beach Victoria BC

250.478-5000 1.888.478.4761 info@thelodgeatweirsbeach.com

The Lodge at Weirs Beach is a premier oceanfront destination with breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast The Lodge is designed for family gatherings, corporate retreats, & intimate escapes!

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 19

Storey Creek Golf Club

l f o G

A Course in Nature 300 McGimpsey Road Campbell River, BC 1-866-923-3674 (250) 923-3673 www.storeycreek.bc.ca

• 18 Holes • Driving Range

VANCOUVER ISLAND

• Licensed Restaurant • 4. 5 Star Rating 2008-09 Golf Digest “Best Place to Play in North America” 3rd “Best Public Course in BC” 2009 Vancouver Sun

Highland Pacific Golf

Fairwinds Golf Club

450 Creed Road Victoria, BC Tel: 250-478-4653 www.highlandpacificgolf.com

3730 Fairwinds Drive Nanoose Bay Tel: 250.468.7666 Toll Free: 1.888.781.2777 www.fairwinds.ca

Victoria’s newest 18 hole course combines challenging and exciting golf holes with breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains, Strait of Juan de Fuca and downtown Victoria.

Carved out of the island wilderness, just minutes from downtown, it’s the first stop on the “Island Golf Trail”. Also includes an award-winning practice facility, golf lessons and a licensed cafe.

Nestled within a master planned residential community, Fairwinds Golf Club has established itself as one of Vancouver Island’s finest courses. Here at Fairwinds, spectacular ocean views, abundant wildlife and pristine natural surroundings combine for an unforgettable golfing experience.

Cottonwood Golf Course

Sequoia Springs

250.245.5157 1975 Haslam Road Cassidy, BC www.cottonwoodgolfcourse.com cottonwoodgolf@shaw.ca

700 Petersen Road Campbell River Ph:250-287-4970 sequoiapsrings@telus.net www.sequoiasprings.com

The Cottonwood Golf Course is a fully public facility with 200 active members. Our amenities include an 18-hole golf course available to golfers of all ages and abilities, driving range and short game practice area.Our full service licensed bar/restaurant is available for daily dining or for any private function of up to 160 guests.

Open March to October

Described on Vancouver Island as the Garden Course, Sequoia Springs Golf Course will mesmerize you with its multitude & variety of plant life, including the largest population of Sequoia trees on Vancouver Island. With the recent completion of our 1100 yd expansion, you will be challenged at every level of your game. In addition, the golf course owner is currently developing patio homes in a private, gated, adult oriented subdivision, which is strategically placed down the centre of the newest expansion.

Sequoia Springs Golf Course is definitely a must see & must play.

Experience Vancouver Island’s Premier Adventure Golf!

Two Exciting Themed 18-Hole Courses!

New Bumper Cars!

1000 Resort Dr. - Parksville, BC - Adjacent to Rathtrevor Park

250-248-8290 www.riptidelagoon.com

Glen Meadows Golf & Country Club 1050 McTavish Road Sidney, BC Tel: 250-656-3921 www.glenmeadows.bc.ca

18 hole championship golf course, everyone welcome, suitable for beginners to pros driving range and practice putting green, CPGA pro, full banquet facilities for up to 200, restaurant, bar, tennis courts and curling rink.

Driving range Open year round 250-721-2001

Mini Golf Open Daily March - October 250-477-4104

4239 Blenkinsop Rd. www.blenkinsopvalleyadventuregolf.com

PA R K S & C A M P I N G

Parks, camping & the great outdoors

C

amping is one of the best ways to explore Vancouver Island.

Choose from facilities ranging from full-service RV parks with amenities such as laundromats and stores to hike-in wilderness sites. Many provincial parks on Vancouver Island feature campgrounds and some have sites that can be reserved ahead. A reservation fee may apply in addition to the regular overnight fee. For information and to make reservations, call Discover Camping at 1-800-689-9025 or visit www.discovercamping.ca • Privately owned and operated camp-

South Island Island View Beach – This park has a long, sandy, ocean beach with a boat launch and is an excellent place to spend a sunny afternoon beachcombing, bird watching, and sunbathing. Located on the Saanich Peninsula north of Victoria.

No camping.

Elk and Beaver Lake Park – A very popular place in the summer, this park offers beaches, wind surfing, rowing, fishing, and a hiking, walking, and horseback riding trail that circles the lakes.

Located just north of Victoria off Highway 17 (Pat Bay Highway). Day-use only.

Goldstream Provincial Park – Minutes from the bustle of Victoria, this park features 700-year-old Douglas firs, a salmon spawning river, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The visitor centre and day-use area is a five-minute walk from the parking lot. Just north of Victoria on Highway 1. Campground and picnic sites.

Beacon Hill Park – The crown jewel of Victoria’s many city parks, Beacon Hill Park is a beautifully landscaped park with gardens, fountains and lakes, playing fields, a children’s zoo, duck ponds, and walkways. Perfect for picnics and lazy afternoons. No camping. Located five minutes east of downtown Victoria.

East Sooke Park – Hiking trails, ocean views, forest walks, and meadows make this another good day park. Check the map at the park entrance to choose the trails suitable for your group. The longest trail takes about seven hours to complete, so be sure to allow enough time before the sun sets. Located west of Victoria along Highway 14. There is no camping in the park, but there are privately owned campgrounds in the area.

French Beach Provincial Park – A gorgeous beach, a nice campground, and plenty of picnic spots make this a good choice for families. Located just beyond the Sooke townsite off Highway 14.

grounds are located throughout Vancouver Island. For other private campground locations, ask at local Visitor Centres or call 1-800-HELLO BC. • The Ministry of Forests also maintains a number of forest service campgrounds on Vancouver Island. A camping pass is required for overnight camping in these sites and the funds are used to maintain the sites for future campers. At a limited number of sites, an enhanced fee is required. Passes are available from government agents and vendors throughout Vancouver Island. Enhanced fees are collected at the campgrounds.

Cathedral Grove, near Port Alberni

Juan de Fuca Marine Park – Stretching

Little Qualicum Falls – Just west of

47 kilometres along the west coast of the island between China Beach and Botanical Beach, this park offers hiking adventures to both experienced and novice hikers.

The trail is accessible from several points off Highway 14 west of Victoria. A good map is required if you plan to hike beyond the beach areas. Check with local Visitor Centres for more information. Camping is available for hikers along the route; drive-in campsites are available at China Beach.

Gordon Bay – The sandy freshwater beach in this popular family park is a hot spot in the summer. Camping, fishing, boating, hiking, historic sites, and family programs add to the fun at this park on Cowichan Lake. Located west of Duncan, just beyond the community of Lake Cowichan.

Cowichan River Park – A 750-hectare park that straddles one of the best fishing rivers in the province, Cowichan River Park features approximately 20 kilometres of hiking trails, swimming, and camping.

Located west of Duncan.

Parksville, this lovely park offers shaded riverside walking trails, playground, camping, and picnic facilities. Some of the trails are wheelchair accessible.

Central Island Newcastle Island Marine Park – Accessible by boat or passenger ferry from Nanaimo, this 306-hectare island park has a rich natural and cultural history, a number of walking trails, walk-in campsites, beaches, historic sites, and picnic areas.

Take the passenger ferry or your own boat from Nanaimo’s harbour.

Rathtrevor Beach – A spectacular beach with cool forest trails, family programs in the summer, and a beautiful campground make this another excellent spot for all ages. Parksville.

Englishman River Falls – Twenty minutes from the Parksville/Qualicum Beach area, this park offers camping, hiking/walking/biking trails, freshwater fishing, a summer swimming hole and spectacular photo opportunities.

Horne Lake Caves and Spider Lake – A family oriented park that features educational guided and self-guided tours into the park’s fascinating caves. There’s also a beautiful freshwater lake perfect for swimming and canoeing and a rock climbing amphitheatre. Great for rainy days too.

Sproat Lake – Freshwater recreation, including swimming, fishing, and water skiing, is the big draw at this beautiful park 15 minutes from Port Alberni. This lake is the home base for the Martin Mars Water Bombers that use the lake as a runway on their forest-fire fighting missions. Campground and boat launch.

Stamp River Provincial Park – Located near Port Alberni, this park and campground is popular with anglers.

Hiking trails, waterfalls, and an impressive run of spawning salmon every fall make this a popular choice.

beach, interpretive centre, showers and changerooms and playgrounds make this park very popular among vacationing families. Located mid-way between Campbell River and Courtenay.

Elk Falls Provincial Park – Just two kilometres from downtown Campbell River, this riverside park offers excellent camping, picnicking, hiking, walking, freshwater fishing, and swimming holes.

Rebecca Spit Marine Park – Located on Quadra Island, a short BC Ferries trip from Campbell River, this lovely park is a narrow strip of land popular with beachcombers, kayakers, picnickers, and walkers.

Shoen Lake Provincial Park – In the beautiful Nimpkish Valley, this gorgeous park with campsites is surrounded by forest. The lake offers great fishing, canoeing, swimming, and hiking.

Marble River Provincial Park – Located near Port Alice, this park and campground is located near the mouth of Alice Lake and surrounded by forest.

The hiking and fishing are great in this 1,512-hectare park.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve — This world-renowned park features

North Island Strathcona Provincial Park – This

Miracle Beach Provincial Park –A good campground, a safe sandy

Long Beach, as well as the Broken Group Islands and the West Coast Trail. Walk-in and drive-in campsites are available at Green Point Campground at Long Beach.

Camping for kayakers is available on some of the Broken Group Islands; maps are available and tours are recommended.

Cape Scott Park – A coastal wilderness park on the rugged tip of Vancouver Island. Choose between the San Josef Bay Trail, a short 2.5 km hike in the southeast corner of the park, or a challenging 27-km trek to the Cape Scott Lighthouse. The trailhead parking lot is a 68-km drive along a gravel road from Port Hardy.

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 21

park is accessible from Campbell River (along Highway 28, the road to Gold River) and between Courtenay and Campbell River (via the Strathcona Parkway and Forbidden Plateau). Hiking trails of various length and for hikers of all ability levels are located throughout.

Alpine meadows, panoramic mountain and ocean views, massive forests of lush evergreens, and plenty of wildlife watching opportunities abound in this huge park. Camping permitted in designated areas.

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Belleville Park Resort Victoria, British Columbiaa Toll Free: 1.800.663.7557 Phone: 250.381.3456 www.bellevillepark.com

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On an entrée when you purchase a second entrée of equal or greater value.

in Kilometres - 1 km = .6 miles approx.

Oceanside Route is Hwy between Parksville and Campbell River

PARKSVILLE 50 PORT ALBERNI 366 355 316 232 11 167 162 274 171 146 147 313

400 389 350 280 45 215 210 308 122 96 195 347

PORT ALICE 53 PORT HARDY 54 44 PORT McNEILL 597 586 547 PORT RENFREW 355 533 527 253 521 496 512 136

344 522 517 242 510 485 502 126

305 483 478 203 471 446 463 87

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North Island Route is Hwy 19 between Campbell River and Port Hardy

LAKE COWICHAN 73 NANAIMO 109 157 475 464 425 175 120 110 105 383 279 253 90 422

SAVE 50%

Distance Chart

White Spot Island Locations Campbell River 1329 Island Highway Colwood 1845 Island Highway Courtenay 2299 Cliffe Avenue

QUALICUM BEACH 178 172 263 166 141 158 303

SIDNEY 57 SOOKE 441 436 TAHSIS 337 331 429 TOFINO 311 306 404 42 UCLUELET 26 37 421 316 291 VICTORIA 480 475 201 469 444 460 ZEBALLOS

Not to be combined with any other promotional offer.

No cash value. Valid after 11am for dine-in only at all Vancouver Island locations. Offer Expires: April 30, 2012

Parksville #28 826 W. Island Hwy. Saanichton 2401 Mt. Newton X Rd.

Duncan 101 Trans Canada Hwy

Victoria Caledonia at Douglas 710 Caledonia

South Nanaimo 130 Terminal Avenue

Victoria - Fort St. 1871 Fort Street

North Nanaimo Woodgrove Centre, 6561 Island Hwy North

Victoria - Quadra Street 3965 Quadra St. (Saanich)

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Telephone: 250-758-1144 Fax: 250-758-5832 Toll Free Reservations: 1-800-565-1144 4700 N. Island Highway (19A), Nanaimo, BC

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Victoria 250-858-6308 • Nanaimo 250-740-5225 • Duncan 250-815-0781

www.innonlonglake.com/islandvisitor

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CENTRAL ISLAND

Out and about on the

CENTRAL ISLAND

PHOTO COURTESY DESTINATION NANAIMO AND TED KUZEMSKI

F

rom the vast sandy beaches of Oceanside and the worldrenowned Long Beach to urban Nanaimo and historic Port Alberni, discover the Central Island’s picturesque communities, bustling shopping and dining areas, excellent golf and luxurious spas...not to mention plenty of family fun!

Nanaimo The Island’s second largest city, “The Harbour City” is renowned for its outdoor activities, excellent shopping, dining and a captivating arts and cultural scene.

And with its mild Pacific climate and an interesting history as a coal mining centre, caputured in its heritage desitations, Nanaimo is an excellent year-round vacation destination.

BC’s third oldest city, historically Nanaimo was the homeland of the Coast Salish, who called themselves “Snuneymuxw,” which roughly translates as “gathering place.” Later, European settlers pronounced the name “Nanaimo.” When the Hudson’s Bay Company discovered rich coal deposits in the mid-1800s, the city of Nanaimo was born. Delve into its past at the more than 150-year-old Bastion

and at the Nanaimo District Museum, where highlights include First Nations displays, a replica coal mine and bathtub race exhibit plus cannon firing ceremonies downtown at noon from the May longweekend through Labour Day. Explore Nanaimo’s arts and culture in the galleries and arts studios, on stage at the Port Theatre and at the city’s many music venues, and take in its excellent shopping districts, including the Old City Quarter, Arts District, Waterfront shops, a variety of north-end shopping centres or south-end farmers markets and organic farms.

Crave the great outdoors? The Harbour City boasts more than 200 parks perfect for walking, swimming, cycling, birdwatching and boating. Hikers will enjoy Neck Point, Biggs Park, Westwood Lake Park and Newcastle Island Provincial Marine Park. Paddlers can launch from both fresh and saltwater locations and boaters will be impressed by the top-notch marina facilities. Don’t miss the opportunity to kayak or boat to Canada’s only floating pub and enjoy the view back to the city.

Regularly scheduled harbour cruises and foot-passenger ferry service to Newcastle Island are available through the spring and CONT. ON PAGE 26

Nanaimo • Vancouver Island • BC

315 Rosehill Street, Nanaimo BC

1-866-925-2009 ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 25

Central Island continued…

CONT. FROM PAGE 25

summer seasons. Whether family mini-golf or Canadian Tour professional facilities are more to your liking, there’s a dizzying selection of 20 courses within an hour’s drive of the city. Diving is yet another specialty, thanks to clear waters, abundant marine life and intriguing dive sites. In fact, Nanaimo’s wrecks and reefs include three sunken ships that make Nanaimo’s one of the largest upright artificial reefs in the world. Continue the water adventure and book a tour to snorkel with the harbour seals tour and interact face to face with our flippered friends.

For more ideas, call the Nanaimo Visitor Centre at 250-756-0106 or 1-800-663-7337, stop by one of two current Visitor Centre locations – Beban House, 2290 Bowen Rd, or the Port of Nanaimo Centre, 101 Gordon St, or visit www.iv.tourismnanaimo.com Parksville & Qualicum Beach – the Oceanside Region From a relaxing couple’s escape to sunny summer weeks with the whole family, the Oceanside region offers something for all.

Stretching along Highway 19A and comprising the diverse communities of Parksville, Qualicum Beach, French Creek, Nanoose Bay, Arrowsmith Coombs Country and Lighthouse Country, Oceanside boasts miles of sandy beaches, spectacular mountain and ocean views, lush parks and numerous attractions. It’s litle surprise this vacation playground is home to more than 140 annual events, fine dining, quaint shops, marinas, first-class accommodations and of course, great golf! A variety of beach-front accommodations is also available.

With one of Canada’s highest concentrations of artists, gallery and studio browsing is a favourite pastime, while for outdoor enthusiasts, activities include fishing, diving, kayaking, mountain biking, boating, caving, horseback riding and windsurfing. Bird-watching is also big in Oceanside, where more than 250 bird species live year-round or visit during spring migration.

Parksville, with a population of more than 11,000, is Oceanside’s largest community. Its mild climate, incredible beaches, golf courses and beautiful parks have established the beachfront resort town as an ideal spot for romantic getaways, spa distractions and family vacations. Nearby, Englishman River Falls Provincial Park draws hikers, anglers and picnickers, while Top Bridge Regional Park is a haven for mountain bikers.

About 10 minutes north of Parksville is the charming town of Qualicum Beach, a pedestrian-friendly gardener’s paradise with more than 26 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

PHOTO COURTESY WWW.ONEILLCANADA.COM

Beautiful beaches at Tofino

CENTRAL ISLAND

© Island Publishers Ltd. 2011

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50 quaint boutiques, galleries, antique stores, cozy cafés and stunning panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia. Be sure to take in a summer sunset with the accompanying breathtaking vistas, and visit the town’s oldest resident: a 70,000-year-old walrus at the Qualicum Beach Museum.

Arrowsmith Coombs Country offers even more sightseeing and activity options. The Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Reserve is a unique micro-climate and ecosystem that has received UNESCO designation. Not-to-miss attractions include the new Orchid Garden with more than 800 living orchids for your enjoyment at Butterfly World and Gardens, the World Parrot Refuge, North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, Tiger Lily Farms, Little Qualicum Cheeseworks & MooBerry Winery (complete with farm tours) and the Old Country Market where you can

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CENTRAL ISLAND

Attractions

Arts • Culture Agri-tourism Wildlife & more!

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

Discover the world classics.

Professional theatre, year round!

The Playbill Dining Room The Gallery Gift Shop Theatre Getaway Packages

1.800.565.7738 chemainustheatre.ca

1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC 250-248-8534 www.niwra.org

NIWRC is a park like setting nestled in the district of Errington on Vancouver Island where our wildlife patients are cared for. Visitors will see eagles, owls, black bear and much more. “It’s truly a Wildlife Experience for the Whole Family”. Viewing open daily March thru December.

Nanaimo Museum MORNINGSTAR FARM Little Qualicum Cheeseworks / MooBerry Winery 403 Lowry’s Road, Parksville Tel: 250-954-3931 www.morningstarfarm.ca

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks and MooBerry Winery on Morningstar Farm produce a selection of world-class cheeses & fruit wines to delight the senses.

Come take a wagon ride tour, stay for a picnic, visit all the animals and check-out the goodies in the FarmGate store.

Lots to see, taste & do! Open Daily 9-5.

100 Museum Way, Nanaimo (in the VI Conference Centre) 250.753.1821 www.nanaimomuseum.ca

Discover Nanaimo’s fascinating history and modern day contributions to Canada’s West Coast. Experience what it was like below the earth’s surface in our award winning coal mine exhibit in the beautiful museum located in the VI Conference Centre. For another blast from the past visit the Bastion on Front Street and watch the daily noon cannon firing – everyday throughout the summer.

Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan www.quwutsun.ca • (250) 746-8119 • 1-877-746-8119 First Nations cultural experience- Open June thru September. Let a Cowichan Tour Guide tell you stories passed from generation to generation, see the Authentic Cowichan Knitters display and purchase hand carved art pieces and jewelry. Try Authentic Native cuisine in the Riverwalk Café- along the banks of the Cowichan River.

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 27

CENTRAL ISLAND

CCentral t l IIsland l d continued… ti d CONT. FROM PAGE 27

watch the antics of the goats grazing on the market’s grass roof before you explore the eclectic market and neighbouring shops. Pick up a picnic lunch and stroll the pretty paths of Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.

Just north, Lighthouse Country is a picturesque coastal area with marinas, restaurants, art studios, shops, the most amazing scallops from Qualicum Bay Scallops, Frisbee disk golf at Qualicum Bay Resort, and caving at Horne Lake Caves.

Call 1-888-799-3222 or the Qualicum Beach Visitor Centre, 250-752-9532 or 1-866-887-7106, at 2711 West Island Hwy. Call the Parksville Visitor Centre at 250-248-3613 or visit 3km south of Parksville at 1275 East Island Hwy.

Port Alberni Named the World Fishing Network’s Ultimate Fishing Town for 2010, Port Alberni is a world-renowned sport fishing destination West of Parksville off Highway 4.

Located at the tip of a long saltwater channel called the Alberni Inlet, Port Alberni is the heart of Vancouver Island’s awe-inspiring Pacific Rim region. Fishing charters operate year-round and saltwater rewards include halibut, cod and salmon.

For freshwater anglers, productive streams abound with cutthroat, rainbow and steelhead trout. Other activities include everything from helicopter and floatplane tours, diving and golfing to kayaking, wildlife viewing and wind surfing.

While outdoor opportunities abound here, there’s plenty more to recommend the valley as well, including an excellent network of heritage attractions. At the Alberni Valley Museum, discover fascinating

CENTRAL ISLAND / NORTH ISLAND

Accommodations Best Western Cowichan Valley Inn 250.748.2722

Conveniently located in the heart of the valley, close to shopping, attractions, golf and more. Delightfully appointed rooms with plasma televisions, coffee makers and mini fridges. Renowned for our excellent food in Choices Restaurant or the CV Station Pub Bar & Grill.

Fantastic Fine Wine & Liquor Store. info@cowichanvalleyinn.com www.cowichanvalleyinn.com

Quarterdeck Inn & Marina Resort 6555 Hardy Bay Road Port Hardy Toll Free: 1-877-902-0459 Tel: 250-902-0455 info@quarterdeckresort.net Overlooking Hardy Bay on the northern tip of Vancouver Island our property features deluxe accommodation and spectacular ocean views. On site is a full Service Marina and Pub style restaurant. We specialize in arranging adventure packages of whale watching, stellar sea lions, eagles, charter fishing, and water taxi to the New North Coast Trail.

Oceanside Village Resort 1080 Resort Drive Parksville 1-877-248-8961

Beautifully appointed two bedroom cottages centrally located in Oceanside. Walk to miles of sandy beach, golf one of 6 nearby courses, visit Englishman River Falls Park, shop Coombs Country Market. Relax in our indoor pool and hot tub. Mini Golf, Day Spa, Sushi Café & Boutique conveniently located on site. www.oceansidevillageresort.com

Days Inn Nanaimo 809 Island Highway South Nanaimo Tel: 1-877-754-8171 www.nanaimohotel.com

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exhibits on pioneer history, folk art and First Nations culture while at the Rollins Arts Centre and Gardens, works by local artists and summertime tea on the terrace are featured. Alberni Harbour Quay is a colourful collection of waterfront shops, galleries and eateries where you’ll also find the Maritime Discovery Centre, the clock tower, with its panoramic views of the Alberni Inlet, and the boarding area for the MV Lady Rose, a passenger and freight vessel offering scenic journeys to Bamfield and Ucluelet.

Other historic highlights of the summer season include 35-minute scenic Steam Train excursion from the Port Alberni Railway Station near the harbour to the McLean Mill National Historic Site. At the McLean Mill, enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of an operating steam sawmill or steam donkey, explore original camp buildings and tap your toes to the Tin Pants Theatre live theatre productions.

Near Port Alberni, Sproat Lake Provincial Park draws recreation enthusiasts and anglers. It’s also home base for the Martin Mars Flying Tankers, the world’s largest water-bomber aircraft used for fighting forest fires. Other nearby spots to visit include the Robertson Creek Fish Hatchery, the J.V. Cline Bird Sanctuary, and Paper Mill Dam and Rogers Creek parks.

For information on Port Alberni, call 250-724-6535. The Visitor Centre is located at 2533 Port Alberni Hwy. Bamfield Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the West Coast with a visit to the tiny outpost of Bamfield. With a permanent population of about 500, Bamfield attracts thousands of visitors – for some it’s the beginning or end of their six-day West Coast Trail trek, while for others it’s the perfect jumping off point for ocean adventures.

A picturesque community where the main street is a waterway served by water taxi, Bamfield offers thrilling year-round fishing adventures, kayaking, scuba diving and whale watching. Check out the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, a stellar local attraction with programs and hands-on displays, and visit the galleries and studios of acclaimed local artists inspired by the splendid scenery. Scenic hiking spots inCONT. ON PAGE 29

28 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

C E N T R A L I S L A N D / TO F I N O

Englishman River Falls JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

CONT. FROM PAGE 28

clude trails to Brady’s Beach, Cape Beale, Pachena Lighthouse, Keeha Beach and Tapaltos Beach. Need more ideas? Inquire in town for local favourites.

Although accessible by gravel-surfaced road from both the Port Alberni and Lake Cowichan areas, Bamfield is most easily reached by floatplane or the MV Lady Rose from Port Alberni. Local resorts offer vacation packages with accommodation, meals and guided adventures, plus fish care and packaging.

Bamfield businesses are pleased to answer visitors’ questions or, during July and August, stop by the Visitor Centres, on the east side in Centennial Park or on the west side of the Bamfield Boardwalk.

Or, visit www.bamfieldchamber.com Ucluelet Located on the edge of spectacular Barkley Sound and bordered by ocean on three sides, the village of Ucluelet is the ideal spot for watching the ships and fishing vessels, marine wildlife and the everchanging scenery of the open Pacific.

Offering a wealth of year-round activities, Ucluelet’s fishing is always fabulous and guides and charters are there to get you on the water. Kayaking opportunities range from the the inner harbour’s calm waters to the challenging Broken Group Islands. Trading paddles for peddles, cyclists explore the roadways and designated

pathways, while hikers’ opportunities include the scenic Wild Pacific Trail.

Winter stormwatching is another thrill and many accommodation properties offer special packages for the visitors from around the world who come to watch Mother Nature unleash her wrath on the rocky shorelines. In early spring, the Pacific Rim’s largest summer guests return: the grey whales. Once nearly extinct, some 20,000 of these amazing mammals migrate along the Island’s west coast. Visible from Ucluelet’s shores in March and April and celebrated with the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, these whales and many other species of marine life can also be viewed on boat tours through summer and into fall.

In addition to accommodations ranging from B&Bs to the luxurious Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, in town, find a good choice of restaurants, shops and galleries.

Returning to the harbour, the Ucluelet Aquarium provides a fascinating look at marine eco-systems.

Tofino Just past the far end of Long Beach, overlooking Clayoquot Sound, Tofino has flourished as a tourism destination in the heart of some of the world’s most breathtaking and pristine wilderness. To help to CONT. ON PAGE 30

Call the Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce at 250-726-4641 or visit the Visitor Centre at 100 Main St.

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ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 29

CENTRAL ISLAND / TOFINO

Central Island continued…

CONT. FROM PAGE 29

protect this spectacular wilderness for the future, Tofino was designated BC’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Outdoor activities include whale-watching, fishing, kayaking, diving and surfing,

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plus guided bear-watching tours, another exciting activity. Hikers enjoy the many trails in the Long Beach area and surrounding the townsite, and the renowned Ahousat Wildside Heritage Trail, an 11km hike on Flores Island.

Tofino is a flurry of activity during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival in March and early April when some 20,000 grey whales return to these waters on a migration route. Unique Tofino attractions include the Whale Centre Museum, with marine artifacts and whale skeletons, and Hot Springs Cove.

Tofino is also Canada’s surfing capital, offering year-round opportunities to catch some waves, and fine surf schools to get you started.

Despite its popularity, Tofino has maintained its peaceful, rustic ambience, with quaint shops, adventure supply stores, art galleries, and cafés blending easily with world-class resorts and fine dining establishments. Accommodations range from hike-in campsites to resort hotels with luxury spas.

Call the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce at 250-725-3414. The Visitor Centre is at 1426 Pacific Rim Hwy; see www.tourismtofino.com Pacific Rim National Park Reserve Celebrate 100 years of Canada’s National Parks with a visit to Canada’s West Coast!

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Rim National Park Reserve is a nationally significant coastal environment offering visitors a variety of experiences.

The most easily accessible unit is Long Beach, a 22km stretch of sandy beach and sand dunes between Ucluelet and Tofino.

A popular surf spot, Long Beach also offers several hiking trails that meander through headlands and woodlands and a marine interpretive centre that explores the region’s natural history. Find day-use areas, a campground, summer family programs and access for physically challenged visitors.

Experienced kayakers delight in exploring the Broken Group Islands, a series of islands and islets in Barkley Sound that can only be reached by boat with some campsites for kayakers. Please note: these waters can be rough and only experienced kayakers should consider excursions here without guides. Find tour information from local Visitor Centres and accommodation and adventure operators.

The West Coast Trail is a 75km hiking trail between Bamfield and Port Renfrew that takes six to eight days to complete.

Although walk-in spots are available each day, reservations are recommended from mid-June to mid-September.

The Living Rivers Trust Fund supports very important work in watershed restoration and salmon sustainability in Georgia Basin/ Vancouver Island, the Fraser Basin and the Skeena Watershed. It has provided partnership funding ($21 Million from 2006 through 2011) and management support for restoration of key habitats and salmon populations, development of innovative new technologies and enabling communities to address threats to their local watersheds. Examples of the several hundred projects supported to date include: • the single largest habitat restoration project on Vancouver Island at Stoltz Bluff on the Cowichan River • the Millstone River falls bypass fishway in Nanaimo • the Fraser fishwheel at Mission • enhanced steelhead monitoring and management planning on the Skeena • the Chehalis trail to resolve longstanding conflicts between First Nations and recreational fishers over river access • peer to peer education and services for the agricultural sector on maintaining riparian land

• improved catch monitoring data for First Nations fisheries through software introduction and training • conversion of sludge from sewage treatment into fertilizer pellets for treating low productivity salmon streams • support for the Cowichan Watershed Board • the Shuswap Lake Management Plan • bringing together all government and industry interests to build a framework for collaborative watershed governance in BC

The Fund is creating a legacy of coordinated and collaborative effort amongst First Nations, volunteer groups, the private sector, government agencies and non profit foundations for the direct benefit of watersheds, drinking water supplies, fish populations and the citizens in the regions it currently serves. The work of Living Rivers partners is key to maintaining a vibrant economy in BC that relies on a healthy environment that is resilient to the impacts of climate change.

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NORTH ISLAND

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Comox Valley both fine art and the performing arts. As for the rich local history, Nestled between the Beaufort Mountains and the Strait of the Comox Valley Heritage Experience is a 16-stop self-guided Georgia, the Comox Valley’s unique geography features stunning mountain peaks, alpine meadows, rivers and lakes, lush forests and driving tour, plus four Heritage Walks in Courtenay, Comox and Cumberland. From booming coal mining towns, rural farms and fertile farms. A mild year-round climate provides an exceptional bustling harbours, the Heritage Experience offers a glimpse into location for hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, mountain biking and diving. Stunning scenery, top-notch amenities and a huge va- the rich social, cultural, natural and industrial history of the Valriety of activities come together in one of the Island’s most popular ley. Pick up tour brochures at local Visitor Centres or download copies from www.discovercomoxvalley.com vacation destinations.

Between activities, catch your breath with a peek into the area’s Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a hot spot for skiers and vibrant communities. Courtenay is the commercial centre and a snowboarders in the winter and hikers and mountain bikers in hub for arts and culture with downtown art galleries and studios, warmer weather. Ride the chairlifts for panoramic summer views boutiques, theatres and restaurants. Cumberland celebrates its of the Comox Glacier and the Strait of Georgia or hike into the history as a former coal-mining town – learn about its incredible spectacular 250,445-hectare wilderness of Strathcona Provincial past at the Cumberland Museum and Archives. Nearby is Comox Park.

Lake, a crystal clear, glacier-fed paradise perfect for swimming, Down the mountain, golfers tee off on six year-round courses, boating and fishing, with a full-service campground, picnic area, while paddlers venture out in canoes and kayaks. Diving, boating boat ramp and hiking trails. and fishing round out the list of marine activities. The Valley also Excellent marina facilities and a quaint downtown make Comox boasts some of the most varied mountain biking trails on Vancoua popular destination where attractions ver Island, with cross-country, downhill, include the Comox Air Force Museum shuttle runs and lift-accessed riding.

A and Heritage Airpark and the historic Culinary and agri-tourism is growFilberg Lodge and Park, where annual ing strong with an incredible diversity events include the August long weekof farm-fresh products. Stop in at the B end’s Filberg Festival, one of BC’s finest year-round farmer’s market or buy COURTENAY arts, crafts and entertainment festivals. direct from the producers, savouring C Looking for activities a little off the the flavours of artisan cheeses, Fanny beaten path? Just offshore and accessible Bay oysters, local wines and beer, in COMOX D via BC Ferry from Buckley Bay, south addition to the array of fruits and vegof Courtenay, Denman and Hornby gies. Visit one of the culinary festivals Islands are favourite escapes for hiking, centred around shellfish, wine, beer and 19 E cycling, diving, swimming and kayakfood or savour the bounty showcased at ing and a wealth of local art studios area restaurants serving locally grown F and galleries. Just north of Courtenay, and produced foods.

19 the Merville/Black Creek area promises Also home to a thriving arts comCUMBERLAND G plenty of family fun, with mini-golf, munity, the Comox Valley hosts several 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 CONT. ON PAGE 34 amazing summer festivals celebrating © Island Publishers Ltd. 2011

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Campbell River & Quadra Island For more than a century, Campbell River has welcomed visitors with warm hospitality and exhilarating outdoor adventures, particularly saltwater fishing which earned the city its reputation as “The Salmon Capital of the World.”

Campbell River has since added to that reputation with exceptional scuba diving, golfing, kayaking, hiking, rafting and more. Walk on the wild side with whaleand marine wildlife-watching tours, bear viewing, bird watching, diving charters to search for giant Pacific octopus and even snorkelling with salmon.

This bustling city of about 33,000 people offers visitors a wide range of accommodation and dining opportunities. Downtown, near the waterfront, explore the shops, art galleries, theatres and the 4km Rotary Beach Seawalk.

The Museum at Campbell River boasts some of the largest and most dramatic masks ever carved and a captivating First Nations presentation called Treasures

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petting farms, go-karting and horseback riding, plus one of the region’s best beaches.

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of Siwidi, along with numerous exhibits exploring the region’s fishing and forestry past. Also downtown is Discovery Pier, a 185-metre-long fishing pier complete with equipment rentals, fabulous views and the Maritime Centre, home to the BCP45 historic seine boat featured on the Canadian $5 bill in the 1970s and ‘80s. Haig Brown House, the former home of nature conservationist Roderick Haig Brown, is an interesting historical stop featuring displays, seminars and courses, and which operates as a bed & breakfast in the summer.

Elk Falls Provincial Park is a 10-minute drive from downtown featuring stunning waterfalls and forested trails around the

Campbell River. The Quinsam Hatchery is popular with nature enthusiasts, especially in summer and early fall when the salmon return to spawn. Campbell River also serves as an excellent base for exploring Strathcona Provincial Park, accessed 59km west on Highway 28. Find freshwater lakes for paddlers and anglers, excellent hiking, camping and stunning scenery.

Take a 10-minute BC Ferry trip from downtown Campbell River to Quadra Island, another prime destination for saltwater fishing, kayaking, hiking and diving. One more ferry trip – about 45-minutes – from Quadra Island leads to tiny, quiet Cortes Island, with a lovely landscape of orchards, lagoons and beaches.

Call the Campbell River Visitor Centre at 1-877-286-5705 or visit at 1235 Shoppers Row. Gold River, Nootka Sound & Tahsis West of Campbell River, through the wilderness of Strathcona Provincial Park, sits the village of Gold River and stunning Nootka Sound. Revered by sports fishers, Gold River has also earned attention for the astonishing beauty of Nootka Sound, “the birthplace of BC” because it was here Captain Cook first landed in 1778.

Pristine waters welcome kayakers and divers while hikers and walkers can enjoy everything from 20-minute forest walks to

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34 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

Tour a Salmon Farm!

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CONT. ON PAGE 35

NORTH ISLAND CONT. FROM PAGE 34

the three-day Nootka Trail. Caving is another growing activity.

Not far from Gold River, Tahsis is accessible by a well-maintained gravel road or the Uchuck III, a working passenger and freight vessel offering scenic tours. Explore the Nootka Sound wilderness, hike the beaches at West Bay Park or charter a fishing trip, or try your hand at fishing for steelhead or salmon. For something a little more adventurous, fly by floatplane to surf the big waves at remote beaches or relax in a natural spa.

Call the Gold River Visitor Centre at 250-283-2418 (July 1 to Labour Day) or 250-283-2202 (after Labour Day through June) Call the Village of Tahsis at 250-934-6344.

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Sayward, Nimpkish Valley & Zeballos Continuing north from Campbell River along Highway 19, stop by the Seymour Narrows Lookout, a viewpoint and hiking trail overlooking Ripple Rock, a submerged mountain that caused dozens of shipwrecks before it was blasted apart in 1958 with the world’s largest man-made, non-nuclear explosion. At Sayward, see a building surrounded in 2,700m of steel logging cable, the Iron Man Totem and the Dalrymple Nature Trail, a 23km looped trail up Mt. H’Kusam. Try canoeing, boating, camping and fishing off the pier at the Kelsey Bay wharf on Johnstone Strait, tee off at the nine-hole, par 3 golf course on the river and book a marine adventure.

CONT. ON PAGE 36

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NORTH ISLAND

North Island continued CONT. FROM PAGE 35

The beautiful Nimpkish Valley offers a challenging hiking trail at Mount Cain – a family skiing destination in winter – boating at Lake Klaklakama, picnicing at Hoomak Lake and, 22km off the highway, renowned fishing at Vernon Lake. Just south of Nimpkish Lake is the road to Zeballos, a quiet logging community that once bustled with gold mining activity.

Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the historic buildings and Zeballos Heritage Museum, where tales of the gold rush and the resulting boomtown are told with pictures and artifacts. Enjoy fishing, diving, boating, hiking, caving, rock climbing and kayaking and visit the Zeballos River estuary, designated a Wetland Reserve.

For Sayward details call 250-282-3821 or 250-282-0018. Find Visitor Centres at the junction of Sayward Road and Highway 19 and the Sayward Futures Office on Kelsey Bay Wharf. For Zeballos details, call 250-761-4070 (July and August) or 250-761-4229 (September to June).

36 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

T l h Cove, C P M N ill Telegraph Port McNeill, Sointula & Alert Bay Telegraph Cove began in 1912 as a one-room telegraph station and later was briefly home to a fish saltery and small sawmill. Today the town has been re-discovered as an acclaimed fishing and adventure destination, calling kayakers, divers, fishers, boaters and bird, bear and whale-watchers. Most of the pictureperfect community’s buildings are perched over the water on pilings. Wander the boardwalks to watch the fishing vessels, yachts and whale watching boats enter the cove. Rent a kayak for your own adventures, or book a whale or wildlifewatching excursion with Stubbs Island Whale Watching. Several accommodation options are available, along with dining, supplies and various adventure packages.

Overlooking beautiful Broughton Strait and bordered on three sides by lush, dense forest, friendly Port McNeill is the hub of the North Island logging industry and an ideal base for North Island adventures.

Enjoy interesting and informative displays at the Port McNeill Museum or stroll the

Shephard’s Garden. llovely l 11.5-hectare 5 h t Sh h d’ G d Fishing is superb here, as freshwater streams abound with trout and steelhead and offshore waters are famous for salmon, halibut, cod and snapper. Try a heli-fishing trip to the remote wilderness or a wldlife-watching excursion by land or by boat – another of Port McNeill’s most popular activities, along with kayaking, golfing, diving, caving, wind surfing, cultural tours and forestry tours.

Daily BC Ferries service to the nearby island communities of Alert Bay and Sointula offers a favourite daytrip. Take a 25-minute ferry ride from Port McNeill to Malcolm Island and the historic community of Sointula, founded a century ago

by Finnish settlers. The community has retained much of its Finnish flavour and the museum, housed in the Old School, is the best place to explore Sointula’s past.

For an artist’s perspective, visit local art studios and galleries, or take the natural approach with Sointula’s natural amenities including Lions Harbour, a popular boating stop, and the beaches and shoreline on CONT. ON PAGE 37

NORTH ISLAND CONT. FROM PAGE 36

the north end of the island, particularly in Bere Point Regional Park where the Beautiful Bay Trail begins and follows the ocean for 5km. Keep an eye out – Orcas can often be seen rubbing between July and September. The 3.5km Mateoja Heritage Trail offers a scenic hike, while the mudflats at Rough Bay are favoured by bird watchers. A variety of accommodations are available.

From Port McNeill, visit Alert Bay on Cormorant Island, rich with First Nations culture and tradition, including the U’mista Cultural Centre, one of Vancouver Island’s most impressive attractions and holding a remarkable display of the repatriated Potlatch Collection, as well as exhibits on the fascinating traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw. The ‘Namgis Burial Grounds, easily viewed from the roadside as entry to the site is not permitted, is another must-see historic site, along with the world’s tallest totem pole. The traditional Big House can be viewed from the outside only, except in July and August when the T’sasała Cultural Group performs.

The oldest townsite in the region, visit the Anglican Church and St. George’s Chapel. The Ecological Park is a bird watcher’s delight, with walking trails surrounding a “drowned” cedar forest, and the sportfishing is top-notch and its proximity to Robson Bight Ecological Reserve makes Alert Bay an excellent departure point for whale-watching excursions.

Find Telegraph Cove and Port McNeill details at 250-956-3131 or at the Visitor Centre in the Port McNeill museum. For Sointula details, call 250-973-2001 or visit www.sointulainfo.ca Call the Alert Bay Visitor Centre 250-974-5024 or email info@alertbay.ca

attract divers. In town, the museum explores both European and First Nations history. Fort Rupert, where the region’s First People settled thousands of years ago, is now the site of a village of First Nations artists called the Copper Maker Gallery. New in Port Hardy is the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre, open mid-May through September.

The rugged coastal wilderness of Cape Scott Park west of Port Hardy features 40km of stunning coastline. A 27km trek will take experienced overnight hikers to Cape Scott Lighthouse, or, for a gentler adventure, try the 2.5km hike to San Josef Bay, or the new Fort Rupert Trail, a 3.7km easy walk running from Storey’s Beach to the Bear Cove Highway, just feet away from the Hardy Bay Estuary. For a day or overnight trip, visit Coal Harbour, Winter Harbour and Holberg. Coal Harbour, 20 minutes from Port Hardy, has a history in whaling, coal mining and copper mining and is now a good choice for canoeing and fishing. Holberg is known for beautiful Ronning Gardens and the Shoe Tree, a cedar snag covered in shoes, and is also the starting point for adventures in Cape Scott Park. Winter Harbour, 40 minutes from Holberg, is a tiny settlement with a boardwalk waterfront and great fishing charters. Port Hardy is also the departure point for two of BC Ferries’ most scenic cruises: Inside Passage to Prince Rupert and Discovery Coast Passage to Bella Coola. Please note: accommodation books quickly when sailings are scheduled; make arrangements before arriving.

For Port Alice details, call 250-284-3391. Call the Port Hardy and District Chamber of Commerce at 250-949-7622or visit 7250 Market St.

Port Hardy

Port Alice & Port Hardy In the recreation haven of Port Alice, both fresh and saltwater activities, including fishing, diving, kayaking and boating, abound in this little town on the shores of the Neroutsos Inlet. Natural attractions include Beaver Lake, a lovely spot to relax, picnic and swim, and O’Connor Lake where you can catch a dinner of fresh trout; the picnic site has a boat launch and the lake is ideal for swimming. Marble River Park has forest campsites bordered by a rushing river known for steelhead fishing. Victoria Lake and Alice Lake are also popular for swimming, boating and fishing and paddlers can visit both with just a short portage between.

Continuing north, discover Port Hardy, first occupied about 8,000 years ago. European settlers began arriving in 1904 and, in 1916, a trail was established between Port Hardy and Coal Harbour. Now a bustling community of 5,000, modern Port Hardy is renowned for year-round adventures, including guided hiking, kayaking and caving tours. Fishing is always popular and operators provide everything from rentals to fly-in fishing camps. Prolific marine life, water clarity and tidal action

Live the Adventure www.porthardy.travel

FOR A FREE RESERVATION SERVICE & VISITORS GUIDE CONTACT:

Port Hardy & District Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Centre. Box 249, Port Hardy BC, V0N 2P0 Ph: 250-949-7622 Toll Free: 1-800-427-3901 Email: phcc@cablerocket.com Web: www.ph-chamber.bc.ca

North Coast Trail Shuttle...

Cape Scott Water Taxi

Port Hardy to Cape Scott North Coast Trail

One stop land and water transport

1-800-246-0093 Port Hardy

250-949-6541

northcoasttrailshuttle.com ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 37

AT T R AC T I O N S

SOUTH ISLAND Greater Victoria: AdrenaLine – guided forest zipline tours, 5128 Sooke Rd, 250-642-1933 or 1-866-947-9145, www.adrenalinezip.com Art Gallery of Greater Victoria – 1040 Moss Street, 250-384-4101, www.aggv.bc.ca Butchart Gardens – 55 acres of gorgeous gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave, 250-652-5256, www.butchartgardens.com Butterfly Gardens – exotic butterflies flying free in an indoor tropical paradise, 1461 Benvenuto Ave, 250-652-3822, www.butterflygardens.com

Capital Regional District Parks – nature outings and special events in Victoria-area parks, 250-478-3344, www.crd.bc.ca/parks See ad page 4.

Centre of the Universe – astronomy centre, 5071 West Saanich Rd, 250-363-8262, www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca Cycle BC, 950 Wharf St, 866-380-2453, www.cyclebc.ca

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites – Two National Historic Sites, open year-round, 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, 250-478-5849. www.parkscanada.gc.ca/ fortroddhill

Government House Gardens – beautiful year-round public gardens, 1401 Rockland Ave, www.ltgov.bc.ca Great Canadian Casinos – 1708 Old Island Hwy, 250-391-0311, www.greatcanadiancasinos.com See ad page 17 Great Pacific Adventures – tours and rentals, 950 Wharf St, 250-386-2277 or 1-877-733-6722, www.greatpacificadventures.com See ad page 15.

Glendale Gardens and Woodland – beautiful demonstration gardens, 505 Quayle Rd, 250-479-6162, www.glendalegardens.ca Harbour Air Sea Planes – daily scheduled flights connecting downtown Victoria, Nanaimo and the Gulf Islands with the Lower Mainland. Scenic advernture tours and private charters also available. 1-800-665-0212, www.harbourair.com See ad page 5.

Hatley Park Castle and Museum – forest, gardens and castle at Royal Roads University, 2005 Sooke Rd, 250-391-2666 or 1-866-241-0674, www.hatleypark.ca Mineral World and Scratch Patch – hunt for gemstones, pan for gold, view interpretive displays, 9891 Seaport Pl, 250-655-4367, www.scratchpatch.com

National Geographic IMAX Theatre – 675 Belleville St. (inside the Royal BC Museum), 250-953-IMAX, www.imaxvictoria.com See ad page 16

Fisgard Lighthouse Royal BC Museum – outstanding museum of human and natural history; National Geographic IMAX Theatre is also on-site, 675 Belleville St, 250-356-7226 or 1-888-447-7977, www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca St. Ann’s Academy – exquisite historic treasure, 835 Humboldt St, 250-953-8828, www.stannsacademy.com Sidney Museum, 2423 Beacon Ave, 250-655-6355, www.sidneymuseum.ca

Prince of Whales – whale watching with hourly departures from the lower Causeway, 812 Wharf St, 250-383-4884 or 1-888-383-4884, www.princeofwhales.com See ad outside back cover.

The Rockhound Shop – Rhodonite, jade, and other local and exotic stone gift items.

Gemstone beads, crystals, minerals and fossils from world-wide sources. Find your gold-panning equipment here too, plus jewellery-making tools, supplies and books. A fascinating place to visit. Open Tuesday to Saturday 9:30am to 5:30pm, 777 Cloverdale Ave, 250-475-2080, www.rockhoundshop.com Saanich Historical Artifacts Society Heritage Acres – artifacts from our rural past on 29 acres, 7321 Lochside Dr, 250-652-5522, www.shas.ca

Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre – award-winning aquarium, 9811 Seaport Pl, Sidney, www.oceandiscovery.ca SpringTide Whale Tours – marine mammal and whale watching, 1119 Wharf St, 250-384-4444, 1-800-470-3474, www. springtidecharters.com See ad page 2 Undersea Gardens – ocean creatures and live dive show, 490 Belleville St, 250-382-5717, www.pacificunderseagardens.com

Victoria Bug Zoo – Discover more than 50 fascinating species of LIVE giant tropical insects and arachnids, including Canada’s largest Leafcutter Ant Farm. The knowledgeable “Bug Ambassadors” will reveal the exotic secrets of this hidden kingdom and provide interactive and hands-on fun for the more adventurous. Imagine holding a tickling 400-leg millipede that stretches the length of your forearm! Check out the fun and unique giftshop. Open daily. 631 Courtney St, Victoria, 384-BUGS (2847), www.bugzoo.com Wildplay Element Parks – Monkido aerial adventure park, 1767 Island Hwy, behind Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre, 250-590-7529 or 1-888-856-7275, www.wildplayparks.com See ad page 14.

38 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

CENTRAL ISLAND Nanaimo: Barton & Leier Gallery & Garden – JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

Cowichan Valley: BC Forest Discovery Centre – the past, present and future of forestry, 2892 Drinkwater Rd, Duncan, 250-715-1113, www.bcforestmuseum.com Duncan Totem Tours, Duncan – guided and self-guided tours of more than 80 totems, 250-715-1700, www.downtownduncan.ca Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre, 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan, 250-746-8119 or 1-877-746-8119, www.quwutsun.ca

Museums – South Island BC Aviation Museum, 1910 Norseman Rd, near Victoria International Airport, 250-655-3300, www.bcam.net

CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum and Archives, at Naden in Esquimalt, off Admirals Rd, 250-363-4312. www.navalandmilitarymuseum.org Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre, 1761 Cowichan Bay Rd, 250-746-4955, www.classicboats.org

Cowichan Valley Museum and Archives, in the old train station, Duncan, 250-746-6612, www.CowichanValleyMuseum.bc.ca

Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse – built in 1853 and beautifully restored, at Craigflower and Admirals Rds, 250-383-4627, www.conservancy.bc.ca Craigdarroch Castle – built in the 1890s and furnished lavishly in Victorianera splendour, 1050 Joan Cres (off Fort St), 250-592-5323, www.thecastle.ca See ad page 13.

Emily Carr House – the artist’s childhood home, 207 Government St, 250-383-5843, www.emilycarr.com Maritime Museum of BC, 28 Bastion Sq, 250-385-4222, www.mmbc.bc.ca Point Ellice House – historic 1867 home offering Victorian house tours, afternoon tea in the heritage garden, 2616 Pleasant St, 250-380-6506, www.pointellicehouse.ca

Paintings, jewellery, garden charms and more. Visit the “funky Baroque” Yellowpoint garden, 250-722-7140, or the downtown gallery, 250-591-1111, www.bartonandleiergallery.com Cyber City Adventures – go-karts, laser tag and more, 1815 Bowen Rd, 250-755-1828, www.cybercityadventures.com Great Canadian Casino, 620 Terminal Ave, 250-753-3033, www. greatcanadiancasinos.com See ad page 17 Nanaimo Aquatic Centre – wave pool, three slides, lazy river and more, 741 Third St, 250-756-5200.

Nanaimo Art Gallery, 150 Commercial St and 900 Fifth St, 250-740-6350, www.nanaimogallery.ca Nanaimo Boat Adventures – two-hour tours departing from the Nanaimo Boat basin twice daily in summer. www.nanaimoboatadventure.ca

Nanaimo District Museum & Bastion‚ 100 Museum Way, 250-753-1821, www.nanaimomuseum.ca

Nanaimo Harbour Ferry & Cruises, 1-877-297-8526, www.nanaimoharbourferry.com

Yellow Point Cranberry Farm, near Ladysmith, 4532 Yellow Point Rd, 250-245-5283, www.yellowpointcranberries.com Wildplay Element Parks – bungy jumping, Monkido aerial adventure park, King Swing, Canyon Zip and more, 35 Nanaimo River Rd, 250-716-7874 or 1-888-856-7275, www.wildplay.com See ad page 12.

Port Alberni: Alberni Golf Club, 6449 Cherry Creek Rd, 250-723-5422, www.albernigolf.com Alberni Pacific Railway – catch the 1929 steam train at the station for 35-min ride to McLean Mill National Historic Site, mid-June to Sept, 3100 Kingsway, 250-723-1376. www.alberniheritage.com See ad page 43.

Alberni Valley Museum, 4255 Wallace St, 250-723-1376, www.alberniheritage.com See ad page 43.

Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre, 207 Fourth St., Courtenay, 250-334-0686, www.courtenaymuseum.ca

Cumberland Museum and Archives, 2680 Dunsmuir Ave, Cumberland, 250336-2445, www.cumberlandmuseum.ca Filberg Lodge and Park – heritage lodge and a lovely garden, 61 Filberg Rd, Comox, 250-339-2715, www.filberg.com

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, 6183 Whitaker Rd, Courtenay, 250-338-6901, www.woodlandgardens.ca

Seaview Game Farm, 1392 Seaview Rd, Black Creek, 250-337-5182, www.seaviewgamefarm.com

Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Lake Cowichan Museum JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

Clock Tower Gallery, Harbour Quay,

Oceanside:

250-724-5999.

Bard to Broadway Theatre Society

Maritime Discovery Centre, Harbour Quay, 250-723-1376, www. alberniheritage.com See ad page 43.

– summer-long repertory theatre, downtown Parksville, 250-248-0444 or 1-877-752-6813, www.b2btheatre.com Butterfly World and Gardens – on Hwy 4A, Coombs, 250-248-7026, www.nature-world.com

McLean Mill National Historic Site – explore BC’s forest heritage at a 1925 mill, Canada’s last remaining steam-powered sawmill and Alberni Pacific Steam Railway, mid-June to Sept, 5633 Smith Rd, 250-723-1376, www.alberniheritage.com See ad page 43.

MV Lady Rose Marine Service – scenic cruises on the Alberni Inlet from Port Alberni to Bamfield and Ucluelet, 250-723-8313 or 800-663-7192, www. ladyrosemarine.com See ad page 43.

Heritage Forest of Qualicum Beach – 50-acre old growth forest, blocks from the town centre; parking and several trail access points available, www.qualicumbeach.net/heritage

Horne Lake Caves and Adventures – cavern hikes, cave tours, canoeing, rock climbing and more, near Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, 1-866-751-2267, www.hornelake.com See ad page 29.

Milner Gardens and Woodland – 60-acre

Crown Isle Golf Resort

old growth Douglas fir forest surrounding a 10-acre heritage seaside garden with rhododendrons, educational tours, afternoon tea through October, 2179 West Island Hwy, Qualicum Beach, 250-752-6153, www.milnergardens. org See ad page 29.

Nature Mini Golf at Riverside Resort, 3506 West Isl. Hwy, Qualicum Beach, 250-752-9544 or 1-877-450-2211, www. myriversideresort.com

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre – ill or injured wildlife get some TLC before returning to the wild; public welcome mid-March to October, 1240 Leffler Rd, Errington, 250-248-8534, www.niwra.org PHOTO COURTESY CROWN ISLE RESORT

Paradise Fun Park – mini-golf, bumper boats and more, 375 W. Island Hwy, Parksville, 250- 248-6612, www.paradisefunpark.net Qualicum Beach Museum, 587 Beach Rd, 250-752-5533, www.qbmuseum.net Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf, 1000 Resort Dr, Parksville, 250-248-8290, www.riptidelagoon.com See ad page 20

– great skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing in the winter; hiking, mountainbiking and scenic chairlift rides in summer, www.mountwashington.ca

Campbell River:

– three galleries, gift shop, art classes and working studios, 122 Fern Rd West, Qualicum Beach, 250-752-6133, www.theoldschoolhouse.org Tiger Lily Farm – farm activities and animals, 1692 Errington Rd, Errington, 250-248-2408, www.tigerlilyfarm.ca World Parrot Refuge – 2116 Alberni Hwy, Coombs, 250-248-5194, www.worldparrotrefuge.org

Discovery Pier – landmark fishing pier ideal for strolls, 700-block Island Hwy. Eagle Eye Adventures – bear, wildlife, whale watching, 250-286-0809 or 1-877286-0809, www.eagleeyeadventures.com Haig Brown House – seminars and workshops on conservation writing and fly fishing, 2250 Campbell River Rd, 250-286-6646, www.haig-brown.bc.ca Maritime Heritage Centre, 621 Island Hwy, 250-286-3161, www.bcp45.org Museum at Campbell River – ancient First Nations culture and settlement history, extensive archives, special exhibits and year-round programs, 470 Island Hwy, 250-287-3103, www.crmuseum.ca See ad page 35.

West Coast:

Telegraph Cove:

Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre,

Stubbs Island Charters – whale watching cruises and specialty tours; reservations recommended, 250-928-3185 or 1-800-665-3066, www.stubbs-island.com See ad page 36.

Tide Rip Tours – Telegraph Cove, 866-800-4749, www.tiderip.com Whale Interpretive Centre – marine mammal education centre, 250-928-3129, www.killerwhalecentre.org

The Old School House Arts Centre

Bamfield, 250-728-3301 ext.226, www.bms.bc.ca Ocean Outfitters, 421 Main Street, Tofino, 877-906-2326, www.oceanoutfitters.bc.ca See ad page 30.

The Whale Centre, Tofino. Whale and wildlife tours. 250-725-2132 or 1-888-474-2288, www.tofinowhalecentre.com See ad page 30.

Alert Bay U’mista Cultural Centre – First

NORTH ISLAND

Nations art and culture, 250-974-5403, www.umista.ca, or 250-974-5024

Comox Valley: Comox Airforce Museum, Canadian Forces Base Comox, Lazo, 250-339-8162, www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca Crown Isle Golf Resort – Luxury accommodations, 18-hole championship course, dining and more. 399 Clubhouse Dr, Courtenay, 1-888-338-8439 or 250-703-5050, www.crownisle.com See ad page 32.

Port Hardy Cape Scott Water Taxi, Port Hardy, 800-246-0093 www.capescottwatertaxi.ca See ad on page 37.

Starfish Charters, Port Hardy, 888-363-4741, www.starfishcharters.com

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 39

EVENTS | ONGOING Saturdays through October – Moss Street Market, Victoria. Locally crafts and produce. Corner of Moss and Fairfield Sts, 250-361-1747, www.mossstreetmarket.com

Saturdays, through October – James Bay Market, Victoria, Crafts, food, entertainment, produce. Corner of Superior and Menzies Sts, by Parliament Bldgs, 250-381-5323, www.jamesbaymarket.com

Thursday evenings through summer – Sidney Summer Market, downtown Sidney, 250-655-6433, www.sidney.ca Saturdays – Market in the Square, downtown Duncan, www.marketinthesquare.net

Fridays, 10am to 2pm, through Thanksgiving – Farmers’ Market, Nanaimo at Pioneer Waterfront Plaza. www.nanaimofarmersmarket.com Through October – Comox Valley Farmer’s Market, Sat. mornings at the Exhibition Grounds. www.comoxvalleyfarmersmarket.com

Sundays, 9am to 2pm, May to October – Pier Street Farmer’s Market, Campbell River, Discovery Pier parking lot. www.pierstreet.com May to September – Totem Tours, Downtown Duncan. www.downtownduncan.ca

May through September – Errington Farmers’ Market, Saturday mornings, Errington Road behind Errington Hall.

Wednesdays, June to September – Summer market, Chemainus, South Willow St.

Tuesday evenings, June 14 to Aug. 30 – Parksville Street Market, Craig Street. 250-248-3613.

July & August – Daily Harbour Boat Tours, 10:30am & 2pm, Ladysmith Comunity Marina, 250-245-0109, www.lmsmarina.ca Sundays, July & August – Concerts in the Park, Ladysmith’s Transfer Beach, 6 to 8pm, www.lrca.bc.ca/concerts.asp July 4 to Sept. 3 – Bard To Broadway Summer Theatre, Qualicum Beach, 250-248-0444. http://b2btheatre.com

MAY To May 15 – Rhododendron Days at Milner Gardens, Qualicum Beach, 250-752-6153, www.milnergardens.org May 7 – Annual Fire & Ice Street Festival, Qualicum Beach. Ice carving, chili and more, www.fireandicefestival.net

May 8 – Mother’s Day Paintin and Craft Fair, Victoria, at Hatley Park National Historic Site. www.hatleypark.ca May 14 – Victoria Tartan Parade. Beginning at about 11am, along Government St, City Hall to Parliament Buildings. www. victoriahighlandgames.com May 14 & 15 – Vancouver Island Paddlefest, Ladysmith, at Transfer Beach. www.paddlefest.bc.ca May 16 to 23 – Cumberland Empire Days, Comox Valley.

Family events, parade and more. 250-336-8313; http:// cumberlandbc.org May 19 to 29 – Uno Festival of Solo Performance, Victoria, 250-383-2663, www.intrepidtheatre.com May 20 to 22 – Cowichan Lake Family Heritage Days, www.cowichanlake.ca May 21 & 22 – Celtic Festival and Highland Games, Victoria’s Topaz Park. www.victoriahighlandgames.com May 21 & 22 – Fort Rodd Hill Historic Military Encampment, Victoria, 250-478-5849.

May 21 to 23 – Luxton Pro Rodeo, Victoria, www.members.shaw.ca/luxtonrodeo May 21 & 22 – Annual Wooden Boat Celebration at Maple Bay Marina, www.maplebaymarina.com May 21 – Village market Day, downtown Cumberland, www.cumberlandbc.org May 21 – Highland Games, Courtenay, Lewis Park, www.cvhg.org May 21 to 23 – Art & Bloom Festival, Comox Valley’s Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, 250-338-6901, www.woodlandgardens.ca May 23 – Victoria Day May 23 – Island Farms Victoria Day Parade, Victoria. The city’s largest parade event.

May 27 to 29 – Painters at Painter’s, annual celebration of BC artists, Campbell River, 1-800-663-7090.

May 28 to 30 – Swiftsure International Yacht Race. www.swiftsure.org May 28 & 29 – Ladysmith Maritime Festival, 10am to 4pm, Ladysmith Marina, www.ladysmithmaritimesociety.ca May 29 – Qualicum Beach Family Day, pancake breakfast, parade, entertainment and more, downtown Qualicum Beach, www.qbfamilyday.com May 29 – Rotary Garden Tour, Ladysmith, www.rotary.nisa.com

May 7 & 8, from 10am to 4pm – Mt. Arrowsmith Rhododendron Society Garden Tour, www.mars.rhodos.ca

40 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

June 19 – Beafort Gang Train Robbery, McLean Mill National Historic Site, Port Alberni, 250-723-1376, www.alberniheritage.com June 12 – Edge to Edge Marathon, Half-Marathon & Relay, Ucluelet. www.edgetoedgemarathon.com June 17 & 18 – BC Shellfish Festival, Comox, 250-890-7561 http:// bcshellfishfestival.ca June 17 to 19 – Father’s Day Seaside Cruisers Show & Shine, Qualicum Beach, 250-248-1015.

June 17 & 18 – Comox Valley Shellfish Festival, www. comoxvalleyshellfishfestival.ca June 19 – Father’s Day Tractor Show, BC Forestry Museum, Duncan, 1-866-715-1113, www.discoveryforest.com June 24 to July 3 – JazzFest International, Victoria, 250-388-4423, www.jazzvictoria.ca June 24 to 26 – Annual Coombs Rodeo at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds, www.chrco.org Island Chefs’ Collaborative’s Local Food Fest, June 12 June 24 & 25 – Miners’ Memorial Day weekend, Cumberland, 250-336-8313, TAYLOR KENNEDY PHOTO http://cumberlandbc.org June 25 – Chemainus Summerfest, JUNE with pancake breakfast and parade, www. chemainus.com June 3 to 5 – Floating Boat & Marine Trade Show, Nanaimo, 250-754-5053, June 25 & 26 – Garden & Art Tour, www.npa.ca Campbell River, 250-287-2261, www.crartgallery.ca June 4 – Heritage Farm FunDay, 403 Lowry’s Rd, Parksville, 250-954-3931 or June 26 – Music in the Garden, summer 1-877-248-4353; www.morningstarfarm.ca evening concert series with the Nanaimo June 4 – Oceans Day at Campbell River’s Chamber Orchestra, Milner Gardens, Qualicum Beach, 250-752-6153, Maritime Heritage Centre, Museum at www.milnergardens.org Campbell River and Discovery Marina. www.bcp45.org June 27 to Aug. 22 – Cemetery Tours With The Nanaimo Museum.

June 4 & 5 – Oak Bay Tea Party, Victoria, Pre-registration & payment required. midway, parade, games and activities along the beach, June 29 to July 3 – Transformations on www.oakbayteaparty.com the Shore, amateur and professional carvers at Campbell River’s Frank James Park, June 4 & 5 – Quadra Island Studio Tour, www.crshorelinearts.ca with studios, galleries and a community centre exhibit, 250-285-3101, June 30 & July 1 – Sidney Days www.quadraislandarts.com June 30 to July 4 – Visions Art Studio June 5 – Classic & Vintage Bike Tour of Cowichan Valley artists’ studios, Show (weather dependant), Milner www.visionsarttour.ca Gardens & Woodland, Qualicum Beach, 250-752-6153, www.milnergardens.org JULY June 6 to 12 – Lake Days, Lake July – Duncan Summer Festival, Cowichan, www.tourismcowichan.com www.cowichanfestival.com June 8 – Ocean’s Day, Port Hardy Visitor July – Comox Valley Youth Music Centre Centre, 10am to 4pm. Displays, shore Festival, jazz, classical and musical theatre, walks, crafts, touch tankand more.

250-338-7463, www.cymc.ca June 10 to 12 – Buccaneer Days, July 1 – Canada Day festivities at Fort Victoria, Midway, parade, games Rodd Hill National Historic Site, Victoria, and activities in the Greater Victoria 250-478-5849, www.pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill community of Esquimalt.

July 1 – Canada Day Victoria, around the June 11 to 19 – Victoria Fibre Fest, Inner Harbour, www.victoria.ca/canadaday www.victoriafibrefest.com July 1 – Canada Day in Sooke, June 11 – Wine & Blues Fest by the entertainment, sports and fireworks at 2259 Sea, Campbell River’s Maritime Heritage Philips Rd, www.canadadaysooke.ca Centre, 250-830-0411 July 1 – Canada Day at BC Forest June 12 – Island Chefs’ Collaborative Discovery Centre, Duncan, 1-866-715-1113, Local Food Festival, Fort Rodd Hill, www.discoveryforest.com www.iccbc.ca

Visit Milner Gardens for Music in the Gardens, June 26

July 15 to 17 – Filomi Days, Port Hardy, with family activities celebrating “Fi”shing, “Lo”gging and “Mi”ning on the North Island.

July 16 – Moss Street Paint-In, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria’s annual outdoor art extravaganza, 250-384-4101, www.aggv.bc.ca July 16 & 17 – Art and Photography in the Garden, Milner Gardens & Woodland, Qualicum, 250-752-6153, www.milnergardens.org July 17 – Brits on the Beach Car Show, Old English Car Club at Ladysmith’s Transfer Beach, 11am to 3pm. www.oecc.ca July 17 – Silly Boat Regatta, Nanaimo, Swy-A-Lana Park, 250-753-0251, www.sillyboat.com July 21 to 24 – Nanaimo Marine Festival & World Championship Bathtub Race, with parade, fireworks, events and bathtub race, 250-753-7223, www.bathtubbing.com July 22 to 24 – Islands Folk Festival, Providence Farm, Duncan, 250-748-3975, www.folkfest.bc.ca July 22 to 24 – Ukee Days, Ucluelet, events all weekend, www.ucluelet.ca July 23 – Chrysler Car Show of classic vehicles, Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, Victoria, 250-478-5849 July 23 – St. Mark’s Fair, giant outdoor flea market, 8:30am to 3:30pm, Memorial at 1st Ave, Qualicum Beach July 23 to Aug. 1 – Stinking Fish Studio Tour, Victoria’s West Shore, www.stinkingfishstudiotour.com July 23 to Aug. 1 – Sooke Fine Arts Show, at the SEAPARC Leisure Centre, Sooke. Original artwork, live music, demos, special events, www.sookefinearts.com July 23 – Grand Prix d’Art, Qualicum Beach, with artists competing against the clock to create local scenes, 250-752-6133, www.theoldschoolhouse.org July 28 to Aug. 6 – Hornby Island Festival, music, dance, theatre, 250-335-2734, www.hornbyfestival.bc.ca

July 29 to 31 – Coombs Country Bluegrass Festival, Coombs Rodeo Grounds, www.chrco.org July 29 to 31 – Forest Fest, McLean Mill National Historic Site, Port Alberni, 250-723-1376, www.alberniheritage.com July 29 to Aug. 1 – Filberg Festival, Comox, arts & crafts, entertainment; no pets, www.filbergfestival.com July 30 & 31 – Oceanside Overdrive Car Show, 10am to 3pm at Parksville Community Park, www.oceansideoverdrive.ca July 30 to Aug. 1 – Capital Weekend Celebration for BC Day Weekend, Victoria., www.capitalfestival.com July 30 to Aug. 1 – Comox Nautical Days, family events, parade, fireworks and more, 250-338-1120.

July 31 – Symphony Splash with the Victoria Symphony, Victoria’s Inner Harbour, 250-385-9771.

Saanich Fair, Sept. 3 to 5

AUGUST Aug. 1 – BC Day at Langford’s City Centre Park, Victoria.

Aug. 1 – Kid’s Day, BC Forestry Museum, Duncan, 1-866-715-1113, www.discoveryforest.com Aug. 5 to 7 – North Island Logger Sports & Summer Salmon Sizzler, Campbell River’s Nunns Creek Park, www.crsalmonfestival.com Aug. 12 to 14 – Victoria Dragon Boat Festival, Inner Harbour, 250-704-2500, www.victoriadragonboat.com Aug. 13 & 14 – Ladysmith Days, in Ladysmith and Transfer Beach Park, www.ladysmithdays.com Aug. 13 & 14 – Coombs Fair, animals, horticulture displays, music, and more, 250-752-9757, www.coombsfair.com Aug. 13 & 14 – Cumberland’s The Big Time Out cultural festival, http://thebigtimeout.com/ Aug. 14 – Kidfest, Parksville Beach, sandcastles, entertainers and more, www.kidfest.ca Aug. 14 to 20 – Medieval Village at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, Victoria, 250-478-5849.

Aug. 19 to 21 – Vancouver Island Exhibition, Nanaimo, agricultural and livestock exhibition, music, carnival and more in Beban Park, 250-758-3247, www.viex.ca Aug. 20 – Show ‘n Shine Car Show, Ladysmith, www.ladysmithshowandshine.com Aug. 21 – Annual Boat Rodeo, Campbell River’s Robert Ostler Park – bathtub race, marine demos, displays and more, 250-287-3779 Aug. 25 to Sept. 4 – Victoria Fringe Festival, 250-383-2663, www.intrepidtheatre.com Aug. 26 & 27 – Wine & Food Gala, Mt. Washington, 1-888-231-1499, www.mountwashington.ca

Aug. 26 to 28 – Comox Valley Exhibition Fall Fair, Exhibition Grounds, Courtenay, 250-338-8177, www.cvexhibition.com Aug. 28 – Arts on the Avenue, Ladysmith, www.artsontheavenue.com

SEPTEMBER Sept. 2 to 5 – Vancouver Island Blues Bash, Victoria, 250-388-4423, www.jazzvictoria.ca Sept. 3 to 5 – Artisans Festival, Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, www.woodlandgardens.ca Sept. 3 to 5 – Saanich Fair, Saanich Fairgrounds, Victoria, farm exhibits, entertainment, midway, 250-652-3314, www.saanichfair.ca Sept. 8 to 11 – Alberni District Fall Fair, Port Alberni fairground, logger sports, agriculture, midway, www.albernifair.com Sept. 9 & 10 – Great Canadian Beer Festival, Victoria, www.gcbf.com Sept. 10 – Comox Valley KidsFest, Lewis Park, with entertainment, food and activities, 250-338-5371.

Sept. 11 – English Car Affair in the Park, Old English Car Club at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, 250-478-5849 Sept. 16 to 18 – Luxton Fall Fair, Victoria, www.luxtonfair.ca Sept. 25 – Haig-Brown Festival & Rivers Day, in Campbell River, 250-287-3103, www.crmuseum.ca

OCTOBER Oct. 2 – Saltspring Island Organic Apple Festival, www.saltspringmarket.com/ apples/ Oct. 9 – Royal Victoria Marathon, www.royalvictoriamarathon.com Late October – Ghosts of Victoria Festival, www.tourismvictoria.com

ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com • 41

JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

oriented fun at Transfer Beach, www.ladysmith.ca July 1 – Canada Day Festival, Campbell River – Activities and entertainment at various locations, www.crsalmonfestival.com July 1 to 10 – Victoria Pride Week, various events celebrating the gay and lesbian community, incl. parade and festival July 10, www.victoriapridesociety.org July 5 to 9 – Ska Festival, Victoria, www.victoriaskafest.ca July 8 – Hop Scotch Festival (beer & scotch) at Mt. Washington, 1-888-231-1499, www.mountwashington.ca July 8 to 10 – Nanaimo Dragonboat Festival, competition and activities at Maffeo Sutton Park, www.nanaimodragonboat.com July 8 to 10 – Vancouver Island MusicFest, Courtenay, music, food, camping, CV Exhibition Grounds, 250-336-7929, www.islandmusicfest.com July 9 & 10 – Organic Islands Festival, Glendale Gardens & Woodland, Victoria, www.organicislands.ca July 10 – Saanich Strawberry Festival at Beaver Lake Park, www.saanich.ca July 10 – Vintage Cadillac Car Show, Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, Victoria, 250-478-5849 July 9 & 10 – Annual Art Walk, Cowichan Bay, www.tourismcowichan.com July 9 – Beaufort Gang Train Robbery, McLean Mill National Historic Site, Port Alberni, 250-723-1376, www.alberniheritage.com July 15 to 24 – Victoria International Buskers Festival, downtown Victoria, victoriabuskers.com July 15 & 16 – Local Colours Festival, Comox Valley, www.comoxvalleyarts.org July 16 & 17 – Langford Summer Festival, Victoria, wwwcityoflangford.ca July 16 & 17 – Canadian Open Sandsculpting Competition in Parksville; sculptures remain on display to Aug. 14, www.parksvillebeachfest.ca

JENNIFER BLYTH PHOTO

July 1 – Canada Day Day, Ladysmith Ladysmith, family family-

B U S I N E S S D I R E C TO R Y

discover black rock

Accommodations Admiral Inn – 257 Belleville St, 1-888-823-6472 or 250-388-6267, www.admiral.bc.ca See ad page 9.

Around the Bend B & B – 5174 Sunshine Coast Hwy, Sechelt, BC. Two rooms with ensuites. Singles $110; Doubles $120. Extra (same room) $15.

Open year-round. 604-885-4071, www.aroundthebendbb.com Beaconsfield Inn – 998 Humboldt St, Victoria, 250-384-4044, www.beaconsfieldinn.com See ad page 12.

Belleville Park Resort – Inner Harbour, Victoria, 250-381-3456, 1-800-663-7557, www.bellevillepark.com See ad page 22.

Best Western Emerald Isle – 2306 Beacon Ave, Sidney, 1-800-315-3377 or 250-656-4441, www.bwemeraldisle.com See ad page 18.

Black Rock Resort – Ucluelet, 1-877-762-5011, www.blackrockresort.com Page 42.

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa – 849 Verdier Ave, Victoria, 1-888-544-2079, www.brentwoodbayresort.com See ad page 9.

Travelodge Campbell River – 340 South Island Hwy, Campbell River, 1-866-929-6622 or 250-286-6622, www.travelodgecampbellriver.com See ad page 35.

Travelodge Courtenay – 2605 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay, BC, 1-800-795-9486 or 250-334-4491, www.travelodgecourtenay.com See ad page 32.

Travelodge Nanaimo – 1-800-667-0598 or 250-754-6355, www.travelodgenanaimo.com See ad page 29.

Tsa-Kwa-Luten Oceanside Resort – Cape Mudge, Quadra Island, 1-800-665-7745 or 250-285-2042, www.capemudgeresort.com See ad page 35.

Victoria Airport Sidney Travelodge – 2280 Beacon Ave, Sidney, 1-866-656-1176, www.airporttravelodge.com See ad page 17.

Western 66 Motor Inn – 2401 Mt. Newton Cross Rd, Victoria, 1-800-463-4464 or 250-652-4464, www.western66motorinn.com See ad page 18.

Cougar’s Crag Extreme B&B – 1155 Woodley Dr, Victoria, 1-888-808-2724, www.cougarscrag.com See ad page 9.

Businesses

Howard Johnson Saanich – 4670 Elk Lake Dr, Victoria, 1-800-I-GO-HOJO or 250-704-4656, www.hojovictoria.ca See ad page 14.

Button & Needlework Boutique – knitting yarns, needlework supplies & accessories, 614 View St, Victoria, 250-384-8781, 1-877-384-8781, www.buttonedup.com See ad page 10.

Humboldt House B&B – 867 Humboldt St, Victoria, 250-383-0152, 1-888-884-4044, www.humboldthouse.com See ad page 9.

Inn on Long Lake – 4700 N. Island Hwy, Nanaimo, 1-800-565-1144 or 250-758-1144, www.innonlonglake.com See ad page 24.

Island View Beach Regional Park – Park, RV and tent campground, 250-478-3344, www.crd.bc.ca/parks See ad page 18.

Pacific Playgrounds – 9082 Clarkson Dr, Black Creek, 1-877-239-5600 or 250-337-5600, www.pacificplaygrounds.com See ad page 32.

Escape to Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, a magical location on British Columbia’s wild west coast.

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort – 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, 1-800-663-7373, www.tigh-na-mara.com See ad page 26.

Peloquin’s Pacific Pad – 426 West 22nd Ave, Vancouver, BC. Two rooms, year-round, $75 to $135. Near Cambie St Canada Line station and Cambie Village shops, 604-874-4529, www.peloquinspad.com Ramada Nanaimo – 315 Rosehill St, Nanaimo, 1-866-925-2009. See ad page 25.

Swans Suite Hotel – Victoria’s Art Hotel, 506 Pandora Ave, Victoria, 1-800-668-7926, www.swanshotel.com See ad page 9.

Hemp & Co – comfortable, natural clothing, 1102 Government St, 250-383-4367; 422 Craigflower Rd, 250-412-0880; & Sh:ft Natural Fashion, 547 Johnson St, 250-383-7441 www.hempandcompany.com See ad page 10.

Island Outfitters – fishing & hunting supplies, fishing charters, 3319 Douglas St, 250-475-4969, 1-866-915-4254, www.fishingvictoria.com Leatherworld – a large inventory of leather accessories; Tandy Leather-authorized sales centre, 610 Yates St, 250-388-7825. See ad page 15.

Living Rivers Trust Fund – www.livingrivers.ca See ad page 31.

Ridgerider – Men’s and ladies’ western and casual clothing, 920 Island Hwy, Campbell River, 250-286-3554. See ad page 35.

Triangle Healing Products – 770 Spruce Ave, 250-370-1818, www.trianglehealingproducts.com See ad page 15.

Vitamin Shop – 1212 Broad St, 250 386-1212, www.canadianvitaminshop.com See ad page 14.

Dining

ALBERTA BOUND?

JOBER’S COTTAGE Jasper, Alberta Hosts:

reserve today Ucluelet, BC • 1-877-762-5011 www.blackrockresort.com 42 • ISLAND VISITOR 2011 | www.getawaybc.com

Shawna & Gerry Jober Our modest home located 2 blocks from downtown.

Rooms located in the lower level, with shared bathroom.

Complementary coffee, tea.

Fridge, toaster, coffee maker for guest use.

Telephone 1-780-852-3893 jcottage@telus.net Web link: www.bbcanada.com/1693.html

Dinghy Dock Pub & Floating Restaurant – #8 Pirate’s Lane, Nanaimo, 250-753-2373, www.dinghydockpub.com See ad page 3.

Haultain Fish & Chips – Friendly, neighbourhood diner serving fresh-battered fish, seafood and more, 1127 Haultain St, Victoria, 250-383-8332. See ad page 11.

Wing’s – delicious Chinese cuisine, eat-in, take-out and delivery, 90 Gorge Rd West, 250-385-5564.

See ad page 11.

White Spot Restaurant – 11 locations on Vancouver Island, from Victoria to Campbell River.

See ad page 23.

Bear Tracks & Lu mberjack

s

www.albernivalleytourism.com www ll 1-866-724-9177 Port Alberni BC

Beautiful Alberni Valley, British Columbia is a hidden gem at the heart of British Columbia’s renowned Vancouver Island, just waiting to be discovered en route to the West Coast.

Port Alberni With charm of yesteryear… this Character home is within walking distance to downtown and one of our finest restaurants, plus the harbour which is the home of the Lady Rose.

MERLOT HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST 3095 7TH AVE., PORT ALBERNI BC V9Y 2J2

PH 250-723-3700

Take a Cruise in Scenic

Barkley Sound

M.V. Frances Barkley

SAILINGS Year Round ~ Bamfield ~ Tues, Thurs, Sat. Additional Summer Schedule: Ucluelet / Broken Group – Mon, Wed, Fri. ~ June - September Bamfield & Broken Group – Sundays ~ July & August All departures 8 a.m. from Argyle Pier KAYAK RENTALS, LODGING AND MEALS AVAILABLE AT SECHART LODGE IN BARKLEY SOUND WATER TAXI SERVICE FROM TOQUART BAY

Phone: (250) 723-8313 Toll Free: 1-800-663-7192 » April to September Email: ladyrosemarine@telus.net

www.ladyrosemarine.com

PO Box 188, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 7M7