Cowichan Bay, BC is a small sea-side community about an hour north of Victoria, BC. For many thousands of years Cowichan Bay was home to First Nations people who harvested the wealth of salmon and shellfish found in its many coves, tidal flats and swiftly flowing rivers. Today, the village of Cowichan Bay is a
About 45 - 50 minutes or so north of Victoria right along Hwy #1 is the quaint and unique Whippletree Junction. It's a funky collection of businesses, restaurants and art and craft galleries that's always fun to explore. Whippletree Junction, Duncan, BC Pioneer House Restaurant at Whippletree Junction Its jumble of
Chemainus is a small town of approximately 3900 and is located about 80 kilometers north of Victoria, BC. The drive itself up to the town is on the breathtaking Malahat Drive which passes through some amazing scenery. (See our post on a day trip which includes stops along the way) Chemainus' claim to fame are
Outdoor Enthusiasts will Love Campbell River, BC Campbell River is the third largest city on Vancouver Island and is literally surrounded by nature. It sits on the 5oth parallel about a 3 hour drive north from Victoria. The waters of the Discovery Passage separate it from the mainland whose majestic mountains form a spectacular backdrop.
A Trip Back in Time at the McLean Mill National Historic Site, Port Alberni, BC. A 2 1/2 hour drive will take you to one of Vancouver Island most interesting historical sites, the McLean Mill. What makes the McLean Mill such a unique heritage treasure is that much of the original machinery and buildings have
I first happened upon this place over 20 years ago when it was just a ‘country market’ with the added appeal of having goats grazing on it’s turf roof. It was a great place to stop on the way to Port Aberni. The 'star' of the show! Since then it has evolved to
Riding the Rails with the Vancouver Island Model Engineers One of Victoria’s least known attractions is the miniature railway run by the Vancouver Island Model Engineers or VIME located at the Saanich Historical Artifacts Society’s Heritage Acres in Central Saanich. This fabulous little ride is a real treat for children of all ages. The
A Visit to Victoria Butterfly Gardens Victoria Butterfly Gardens isn’t just about butterflies; in fact, it is a complete tropical rain forest experience from the beautiful tropical gardens with over 200 species of tropical plants including carnivorous plants, to the beautiful ponds and streams teaming with Koi, waterfalls and bridges, free flying tropical birds, gorgeous
Heritage Acres in Saanich, BC is operated by the Saanich Historical Artifact Society. Like me, you may have seen the sign for Heritage Acres as you're driving along the Pat Bay Hwy. And like me, you may have thought the site contained a few old tractors and some farm equipment along with a little train.
Market open on Sundays, 11:00am to 2:00pm, May (Mother's Day) to the last Sunday in October Metchosin Municipal Grounds 4450 Happy Valley Road Come by Metchosin's Farmer's Market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from organic and traditional farmers, herbs, free range eggs, breads, jams, salsa or baked goods. There are also a variety of locally
