Cathedral Grove is a wilderness area in the MacMillan Provincial Park in central Vancouver Island. It is a magnificent old growth forest that is part of the Costal Douglas Fir Biogeoclimatic Zone. It is a very impressive example of a west coast rain forest that fortunately has been preserved for future generations to explore and enjoy.
As an old growth forest Cathedral Grove is composed of both live and dead trees. The tree tops form a ceiling high above the forest which can certainly be called cathedral like. The forest floor has many layers with ferns, grasses, wild flowers and lots of moss.
The park forest is right off the highway so there is no long hike to get to the trailhead.
West Coast Rainforest
Cathedral Grove now attracts about one million visitors a year but every time I have been there it hasn’t been super busy or crowded.
The trees are impressively large with a rainforest scent. Just breathing the moist air is special. The forest floor feels alive with leaves and deadfall trees providing nourishment for the many species that call the park home.
The south loop of the park has one of the most accessible stands of the giant Douglas Firs in BC. The north loop of the park takes you through groves of Red Cedars to the shores of Cameron River.
Big and Old
The majority of the trees in the park are Red Cedar and Douglas Fir and they both are massive and old. Some of the trees have been there some 800 years. There is a grand old Douglas Fir that measures some 9 meters (30 feet) in diameter. A car could fit in there!
For those wanting to see other giant tress you can check out Avatar Grove in Port Renfrew (North of Victoria on the south western part of the Island), Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park (northwest of Port Renfrew) and Big Tree Trail, near Tofino on the western coast of Vancouver Island.
Short Hiking Trails
There are short hiking trails that take you through the park and offer close up viewing of this massive . The park is in two parts – one on each side of the highway. The trails are well groomed and have handrails where needed. There are no large hills to climb or rivers to cross so it is quite accessible.
Getting to Cathedral Grove
From Port Alberni take Highway 4 East. The park is right off the highway.
From Victoria or Nanaimo take Highway 19 north, then exit west on Highway 4 towards Port Alberni. From Nanaimo it is about a half hour drive.
There are washrooms in the park but there is no overnight camping at this location.
Accommodations Port Alberni
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel.
This full-service hotel in Port Alberni, British Columbia is located in the heart of the city and is ideally situated halfway to Vancouver Island’s west coast. You will be minutes from Glenwood Centre, Log Train Trail, McLean Mill, Alberni Mall and Cathedral Grove, as well as Victoria and Harbour Quays, Lady Rose Marine Group, Alberni Railway and North Island College. And it’s just a short drive to great fishing, hiking, golf, boating, kayaking and drag racing. The hotel is a favorite for those attending the Alberni Valley Bulldogs hockey games and minor hockey tournaments.
The Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel is rated three diamonds by the AAA-CAA and offers spacious, comfortable accommodations in warm, tasteful décor. This full-service property offers room service and free, high-speed Internet. They welcome most pets; just check with the front desk for specifics. All of the property’s 86 rooms are non-smoking and include kitchenettes and seven suites. Just steps from your room are the property’s two restaurants. Both the Stamps Café and Pastimes Bar and Grill have a seasonal patio and are open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Unwind in the outdoor pool (heated May through October), hot tub, whirlpool, steam room and full fitness centre. Relax with a cold beer, wine or spirits from the onsite store. They even offer truck parking.
With meeting space and banquet facilities for 200, the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel’s meeting rooms and ballroom are perfect choices for your company’s conference, your non-profit group’s big event or even a special birthday party or wedding reception. The hotel’s business center helps corporate travelers be more productive.
The friendly hotel staff will be happy to help you schedule a fishing tour, tee time, scuba dive, eco tour or kayaking expedition.
Contact info: Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel, 4277 Stamp Avenue, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 7X8 Toll Free: (800) 563-6590 Telephone: (250) 724-7171 Fax: (250) 724-9691
Email: info@bestwesternbarclayhotel.com
Enjoy all that Port Alberni has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Newcastle Island is part of the picturesque Nanaimo Harbour. You can view it from the edge of downtown Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. The Island has no cars and is accessible only by boat which makes it an ideal “away from the crowds” destination to enjoy the ocean views.
The main activity is to walk around the Island which takes 2 to 3 hours at a leisurely pace. There is also a camp store and concession with limited items for sale.
It is a First Nations park with artifacts and totem poles and is managed by them as well.
Newcastle Island Pavilion
There is a beautiful old pavilion built in the 1930s close to the ferry dock. The historic pavilion can be rented for weddings and other special events.
The day we were on the Island there was a wedding going full swing in the afternoon – at a guess I would say it could accommodate 150 guests. The bridal party photo shoot was down near the beach and they were have the time of their lives.
Even if you didn’t get invited to a wedding you can enjoy dancing on the sprung dance floor. Check with them for the dance schedule.
Ferry Service to Newcastle Island
There is regular ferry service from Maffeo Sutton Park, near the entrance to downtown Nanaimo. The trip just takes a few minutes in a small passenger ferry – called pickle boats, no doubt due to their green paint job. Some of the windows are open which allowed me to take some great photos of a passing sail boat and the harbour. The price is nominal and you can even take your dog for free. It is however an on-leash park.
Newcastle Island Swimming
The tide-swept beaches are is striking especially the section between Newcastle Island and Protection Island which is just a rocks throw away to the south. It has a very gentle slope with a sandy beach ideal for young children to enjoy and swim. If the walk is too long, consider renting a bike on the Island.
Newcastle Island Camping
There are designated campsites on different parts of the Island with lots of open spaces to wander in or play games. There are 5 group campsites and 18 individual sites along with burn pits, tent pads and picnic tables. You can even buy fire wood if you need it.
Biking and Hiking
There are a number of different biking and hiking trails from gentle to more challenging. The Island is fairly flat so there are no mountains to navigate.
Booting and Moorage
There is some moorage on the wharf and ample moorage in the harbour. We saw a few dozen power boats and sailboats flying both Canadian and American Flags. Moorage fees apply after 6pm.
Even if you don’t own a yacht you can rent a kayak and explore the shores.
Nanaimo Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western.
The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Nanaimo Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo over looking picturesque Nanaimo Harbour. Our charming heritage boutique-style hotel is decorated in a style that blends old world class with modern conveniences to make your stay at this Nanaimo hotel a comfortable and memorable one!
Offering spectacular views of Nanaimo, along with Nanaimo’s inner harbour, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Dorchester Hotel features 70 well-appointed guestrooms. Our Nanaimo hotel also features a popular onsite restaurant: Deep Blue, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, complimentary overnight parking, and more!
The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel Nanaimo, 70 Church Street, Nanaimo, BC Canada V9R 5H4
Toll Free: 1-(800)661-2449 Local : (250)754-6835 Fax: (250) 754-2638 Email: email: reservations@dorchesternanaimo.com
Enjoy all that the Nanaimo area has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Some time in the past the native peoples skillfully carved wolves, sea creatures and symbolic designs into the sandstone surfaces of the rock. Using stone tools, these beautiful etchings represent an art form seen in other locations but rarely in such concentrations. The sandstone display of the original creations is along a walkway on a hill that overlooks the Nanaimo Harbour.
Prehistoric Rock Carvings
A petroglyph is a line drawing or carving on rock, especially one made by prehistoric people. These prehistoric rock carvings are the main attraction at the small park. Some 1,000 years ago the First Nations people of the area created the carvings without the aid of modern carving tools.
Locations of the Rock Art Carvings
The rock art carvings were carefully chosen where the forces of nature were the strongest such as caves and waterfalls. The locations were typically near water. Looking through the tall trees you can see the Nanaimo harbour.
Petroglyph Park Interpretive Area
The park has an interpretive area with information panels to describe the petrographs. The rock carvings were created by a people who had no written language to commemorate their special events or rituals.
Create Your Own Souvenir
In the main interpretative area you can make a rubbing of the castings from the concrete replicas. By rubbing charcoal or crayon over paper or cloth you can create a reverse imprint and voila you have your own souvenir. You will need to bring your own supplies as there is no store on site.
Petroglyph Park Sandstone Gallery
Overlooking Nanaimo Harbour on a hill is the sandstone gallery of petrographs. Amid the tall trees and brush you can view these carvings. You will conjure up images of times past when the carvings were done a thousand years ago.
Getting to Petroglyph Provincial Park
Petroglyph Provincial Park is located at the south end of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. It is 4 km (2.5 miles) south on Highway 1 – the Trans-Canada Highway – just watch for the exit.
Nanaimo Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western which is just a couple of blocks from the Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC).
The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Nanaimo Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo over looking picturesque Nanaimo Harbour. Our charming heritage boutique-style hotel is decorated in a style that blends old world class with modern conveniences to make your stay at this Nanaimo hotel a comfortable and memorable one!
Offering spectacular views of Nanaimo, along with Nanaimo’s inner harbour, the BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel features 70 well-appointed guestrooms. Our Nanaimo hotel also features a popular onsite restaurant: Deep Blue, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, complimentary overnight parking, and more!
The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel Nanaimo, 70 Church Street, Nanaimo, BC Canada V9R 5H4 Toll Free: 1-(800)661-2449 Local : (250)754-6835 Fax: (250) 754-2638 Email: email: reservations@dorchesternanaimo.com
Enjoy all that the Nanaimo area has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Whitewater rafting trips on Vancouver Island are based out of Campbell River. Here you will fine temperate climates, unspoiled scenery, pristine rain forests and challenging rivers.
The north east coast of Vancouver Island is famous for its untouched wilderness, ocean views and natural vistas. Here you can also spot a bald eagle or catch a glimpse of a whale or the abundant salmon.
Campbell River is a 1.5 hour drive from Nanaimo or 3 hours from Victoria where the ferry terminals are. There is also airline service to Campbell River.
Whitewater Rafting Options
There are a number of whitewater rafting options that allow you to spend a few hours to a multi-day adventure.
Pick up a waterproof camera as you have some great photo opportunities.
Campbell River
Campbell River (the river not the town) rafting is rated as class I – II so it is suitable for beginners or the faint of heart. During the month of August you can swim or snorkel with the spawning salmon. The best time of year for rafting is from May to August.
Upper and Lower Nimpkish River
The Upper Nimpkish is the more extreme part of the river with more difficult rapids that are closer together to add to the adventure. Upper Nimpkish is rated as class III-IV so only consider these rapids if you are quite experienced.
On the lower Nimpkish River you will encounter around 40 sets of rapids but they are the mild version so are suitable for beginners. You can even stop off for a swim or explore a cave. Lower Nimpkish River is rated as Class II – III.
The best time of year is from May to August. Keep an eye out for spotting wildlife like deer, cougars, bears and elk.
The Nimpkish River is on north central Vancouver Island about a 90-minute drive northwest from Campbell River.
Southgate River
Southgate River, rated as class I – II, is on the mainland but the best way to get there is via Campbell River. Here you get to raft on glacier green waters fed by the Homathko Icefields.
The only access to this remote area is by helicopter or by boat, so it a multi-day trip. The best time of year is late summer – August to September.
Tour Operators for Whitewater Rafting
Destiny River Adventures, based in Campbell River, offers professionally guided river rafting tours for the beginners to expert whitewater enthusiasts. As part of the tours you can enjoy other activities including fishing, wildlife spotting, swimming and caving.
Their tours cover half day rafting, full day rafting or 4 day expeditions on the Campbell River, Oyster River, Nimpkish River and Southgate River.
Reservations are recommended.
Contact Info:
For those that prefer telephone or regular mail our contact information follows:
Phone: 250-287-4800 Fax: 250-287-4857 Toll Free: 877-923-7238
Destiny River Adventures
1630 North Island Highway, Campbell River, BC, Canada V9W 2E5
www.destinyriver.com
Campbell River Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
BEST WESTERN Austrian Chalet is a full-service hotel in Campbell River, British Columbia located across the street from beautiful Pacific Ocean beaches. You’ll be close to the Campbell River, shopping at Discovery Harbour Mall and golf at both Sequoia and Storey Creek Golf Courses, and a short drive from Elk Falls Park, the Saratoga Speedway and Mount Washington. The property’s 60 traditional guest rooms include suites, two-level suites and kitchenettes, making it the perfect getaway for a whole-family vacation.
Contact info: BEST WESTERN Austrian Chalet, 462 S. Island Highway, Campbell River, Campbell River, BC V9W 1A5
Toll Free: (800) 668-7797 Telephone: (250) 923-4231 Fax: (250) 923-2840.
mailto:info@bestwesternaustrianchalet.com
Enjoy all that Campbell River has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Killer Whales (Orcas)
About 80 Killer Whales in three main family pods make the Victoria area and the surrounding Gulf Islands home. The whales feeding area is about a 160 km (100 miles) radius around the Victoria area.
There are resident Orcas that can be seen from the spring to the late fall. There are also transient Orcas all year and especially during the winter when there is lots of seals to feed on. But your best chance of seeing the Orcas is the spring to fall season.
Other Wildlife
You may also get to see Gray, Minke and Humpback whales as well as porpoises, sea lions and seals. Also keep an eye out for cormorants and the majestic bald eagle.
What to Wear
The boats travel up to 30 miles per hour so it is wise to bring a jacket and cap, especially if you are in a smaller boat is open. Some of the whale watching tour operators have larger boats with enclosed spaces as well as food service and washrooms but you will pay extra for that.
Photographing Whales
Be sure to bring your camera and learn in advance how to shoot fast moving objects. My camera has a sports setting which allows me to shoot continuously. You should also bring a plastic bag or camera bag to protect your camera as you are close to the water.
The boats come to a full stop and the whales can come right by the boat. It all happens very quickly as they are fast swimmers and it seems even more so when they are feeding. Check in advance with the boat operator for the best spot to get pictures.
Whale Watching Tour Operators
You have a number of options to select from:
Prince of Whales Whale Watching
The Prince of Whales whale watching has Zodiacs and a 62-foot cruiser, the Ocean Magic, which can carry 74 passengers with heated passenger seating as well as on-board washrooms. The Zodiacs are open so be prepared to water sprays and a fast ride. They have the largest fleet of whale watching boats in British Columbia and can service some 800 passengers a day.
Whale watching in Victoria BC on Vancouver Island was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. There is something very special about watching these amazing animals breaching and then swimming right past the boat. The day we were out a pod of Killer Whales (Orcas) came by to say hello. Whale watching is the top of my list for a nature adventure all in the comfort of a boat and a warm jacket.The area around Victoria BC is ideal for viewing marine wildlife and killer whales in particular. There is an abundance of plankton in the water that feeds a whole ecosystem from fish, to birds to marine mammals. The main food for the Orcas is salmon which are in abundance in this area due to the many rivers that support them.
Contact info: Prince of Whales Whale Watching
Prince of Whales Whale Watching
812 Wharf Street, Lower Causeway Level
Victoria, BC V8W 1T3 Canada Tel: 250.383.4884 Fax: 250.383.4882 Toll Free: 888.383.4884 www.princeofwhales.com Email: info@princeofwhales.com
Orca Spirit Adventures
Orca Spirit has a large and luxurious catamaran vessel for whale watching or cruises. They can also accommodate weddings and dinner cruises. It has both outdoor and heated indoor decks as well as food service and washrooms.
Contact Info: Orca Spirit Adventures
Orca Spirit Adventures
146 Kingston Street, Marina Level
Victoria, BC V8V 1V4 Canada
Phone: 250-383-8411 Fax: 250-383-4666 Toll-free: 1-888-672-6722
Email: whales@orcaspirit.com
www.orcaspirit.com
BC Whale Tours
BC Whale Tours offer a premium whale watching service. They utilize a larger yacht that is heated and take just 12 passengers which provides a more personal whale watching experience. In addition to the day tours, they also offer longer multi-day trips
Contact Info BC Whale Tours
Tel: 250-590-5030 www.bcwhaletours.com
Victoria Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Carlton Plaza Hotel is proud to offer the finest in accommodations and friendly customer service at an affordable rate! The convenient downtown location of this Victoria hotel is ideal for guests visiting the Royal British Columbia Museum, Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria’s IMAX® Theater. Butchart Gardens is just a short drive away.
Guests looking for things to do in Victoria will enjoy being close to local attractions, theaters, golf courses, and whale watching expeditions. Favorite attractions also include Antique Row, the Royal London Wax Museum and the Maritime Museum of British Columbia.
Contact info: BEST WESTERN Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel, 642 Johnson Street, Victoria, BC Canada, V8W 1M6, CA. Toll Free: (800) 663-7241 Local: (250) 388-5513 email:mailto:reservations@bestwesterncarltonplazahotel.com .
Enjoy all that Victoria has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Vancouver Island and the Gulf Island enjoy the mildest temperatures in Canada. With its sunny and warm summers and rolling hills the Cowichan Valley is ideal for growing wine grapes.
From mountains, pastures and ocean views, the landscapes around the vineyards are alone worth the trip. The Cowichan Valley has long dry summers along with ideal grape growing soils which make it just right for vineyards.
The Napa Valley of Canada
The Cowichan Valley in Southern Vancouver Island, known as the Napa Valley of Canada, is a flourishing wine producing area. Vancouver Island’s sun-drenched slopes on the eastern and southern portion are ideal grape growing areas.
Similar to northern Europe, the Cowichan Valley grows some of the best cool-climate grapes. The Valley also has excellent conditions for growing high quality cider apples comparable to the famous cider-growing areas of France and England.
Here are the vineyards and wineries in the local Duncan area – in no particular order. We suggest you confirm the open hours before you begin your vineyard tour adventure.
Venturi-Schulze Winery
The Venturi-Schulze winery, started in 1987, offers estate grown wines, balsamic vinegars and verjus, a very acidic juice made from unripe grapes.
Hours: Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (4:00 pm November & December) and other times by appointment.
Contact Information:
4235 Vineyard Rd, Cobble Hill, British Columbia V0R 1L5
Tel: 250-743-5630 Fax: 250-743-5638 Website: www.venturischulze.com
Zanatta Winery & Restaurant
The Zanatta Winery is part of a 120 acre farm with some 30 acres for wine grapes. Their wines only use the fruit from the farm and have been producing since 1990. Their main varieties are: Pinot Nero, Ortega, Cayuga, Auxerrois, Pinot Grigio, and Madeleine X Sylvaner. They also have a number of other varieties for specialty wines and for experiment.
The Vinoteca is a vineyard restaurant and wine bar in a restored farm house. It is open for lunch service Wednesday to Sunday starting at noon. The fare is “created on the simplicity of country life, incorporating food which is grown either on the farm or as local as possible”.
Hours: Wine tasting and sales 12 to 4:30pm Wednesday to Sunday
Contact information:
Zanatta Winery
5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan, B.C. V9L 6S3
Telephone: (250) 748-2338 Fax: (250) 748-2347 email Winery@zanatta.ca
Vinoteca Restaurant info and reservations: (250) 709-2279 email:fatima@islandnet.com
Website: www.zanatta.ca
Averill Creek Vineyard
The Averill Creek Winery is named after the creek that runs down from the slopes of Mount Prevost. However the passion of this Cowichan Valley vineyard comes from physician Andy Johnston, who over a 30 year period honed his wine making skills by apprenticing in vineyards in France, Italy and Australia. They are open daily 11-5 for the 2011 season.
The main floor of the winery and the outdoor Piazza can be tented for events, receptions and parties
Contact information:
Averill Creek Vineyard
6552 North Rd, Duncan BC V9L 6K9 Phone: 250-709-9986 Fax: 250-709-9987
Email: weddingandevents@averillcreek.ca
www.averillcreek.ca
Blue Grouse Winery
The Blue Grouse vineyard and winery was started by the Kiltz family who hail from Germany. It is one of the original Vancouver Island Estate wineries.
Blue Grouse is a family-owned and operated vineyard and winery. This amazing location, on an all-southern exposure, requires neither irrigation or fertilization.
It is open for tasting and sales on selected days depending on the season. Best to call in advance.
Contact Information:
Blue Grouse Winery
4365 Blue Grouse Road, Duncan, BC V9L 6M3 Tel. (250) 743-3834
Email. info@bluegrousevineyards.com
www.bluegrousevineyards.com
Meridale Ciderworks
Merridale Ciderworks in the heart of Cowichan Valley offers cider from BC’s first estate cidery. Their products include 7 ciders, 3 fortified dessert wines plus a selection of brandies and spirits. There is a store on location offering gourmet foods, baked goods and their own cider apple vinegar. You can also enjoy the day spa in the piece and quiet of a rural farm. Their location is a also available for weddings.
Contact Information:
Merridale Ciderworks
1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill, British Columbia, V0R 1L0
Tel: (250) 743-4293 Fax (250) 743-9310 Toll-free 800-998-9908
http://www.merridalecider.com/
Rocky Creek Winery
Rocky Creed Winery is an award-winning boutique winery in the heart of Cowichan Bay offering Ortega, Wild Blackberry, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Sparkling and Rose. In their wine cafe you can enjoy wines with cheese, biscotti and other snacks.
In 2009, Cowichan Bay became North America’s first Cittaslow community, joining over 119 Cittaslow towns in 20 countries. These communities are brought to life by the people who take the time to build community relationship and enjoy a quality of life.
Contact Information:
Rocky Creek Winery
1854 Myhrest Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC V0R 1N1
Phone: (250) 748-5622 Fax: (250) 748-5633 Email: info@rockycreekwinery.ca www.rockycreekwinery.ca
Duncan Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
BEST WESTERN Cowichan Valley Inn is a quiet sanctuary at the foot of Mount Prevost and conveniently located near the Cowichan Commons Mall and BC Forest Discovery Centre.
The hotel features 43 well-appointed guestrooms and the convenience of onsite dining at Choices Restaurant and Station Pub Bar and Grill. The friendly, helpful staff at the BEST WESTERN Cowichan Valley Inn is ready to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Duncan, BC.
Contact info: BEST WESTERN Cowichan Valley Inn, 6474 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan, British Columbia V9L 6C6. Toll Free: (800) 927-6199 Telephone: (250) 748-2722 Fax: (250) 748-2207. Email: mailto:info@cowichanvalleyinn.com.
Enjoy all that Duncan has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Tofino, ‘Surf Capital of Canada’, lies on the west coast of Vancouver Island, right out there on the edge of the Pacific Rim. The Editors’ Choice Awards from Outside Magazine gave Tofino the title ‘Best Surf Town in North America, and the title ‘Best Beach in Canada’ came from TripAdvisor’sTraveler’s Choice Awards.
Tofino Beaches
No matter the moniker or who has bestowed it, it’s easy to see how they are accumulating when you start to visit the beaches of tofino, like Chesterman, Long and Cox Bay. Chesterman Beach is known for good summer waves, Long Beach has the largest stretch of sand which seems to just draw surfers in, and Cox Bay gets strong wave action, more than others in the summer.Tofino creates a unique surfing adventure, and wetsuits and other gear are a necessary blessing when surfing here.
Tofino weather is not that typical of the climates you usually find surfers; ocean temperatures are on the average 50°F/10°C, but the exquisite terrain of
Popular Tofino Surf Spot
Some beaches are better for newbies to learn how to surf and some are better for pros to ride the waves. The beaches of Tofino are good surf beaches for both novices and seasoned surfers, as they tend to have flat and sandy bottoms. And while some of the beaches are sheltered, making them a bit kinder and gentler to surf, some of them face the Pacific head-on, which creates a more challenging surf, so there is a range of surfing possibilities, even including kayak surfers.
You could do a 5-10 minute drive from downtown Tofino to get to the Beaches or you could do what the locals do, and bike to the beach of your choice, with your board on-board.
Tofino’s Surf Schools
The nine surf schools in Tofino offer equipment rentals, comprehensive lessons regarding safety, technique and the etiquette of the waves:
· Bruhwiler Surfschool – Surf with Canada’s best known pros
· Island Longboards – Lots of Longboards and SUP
· Live to Surf – Original Tofino Surf shop that provides Surf, Skate and Skim, Sales, Rentals, and Lessons for all ages.
· Long Beach Surf Shop – Large selection of rental and retail gear; largest selection of CD’s and vinyl
· Pacific Surf School – Learn from our coastal crew on the Island’s rugged west coast.
· Storm Surf – High quality surf gear, sales and rentals
· Surf Sister Surf School – Canada’s only women surf school (gents welcome as well)
· Tofino Surf School – Tofino’s newest surf school!
· Westside Surf School - Most advanced techniques learnt from director Sepp Bruhwiler, Canada’s internationally known pro
Do a quick hour lesson as a brush-up, or take a day or two and learn the basics. Take a 2, 3, or 4 day excursion or plunge into the world of surfing with a week-long option.
Tofino – O’Neill Cold Water Classic and Surfing Events
In 2009 and 2011, Canada’s first professional surfing event, the O’Neill Cold Water Classic was hosted in Tofino, with hundreds of professional surfers from all over the world in attendence, including some of the local surf pros, including 2009 winner Peter Devries, Jeremy Koreski, Noah Cohen and Raph and Sepp Bruhwiler.
Tofino Annual Events that have surfing
· Pacific Rim Whale Festival (March)
· Feast! (May to June)
· Rip Curl Stew (June)
· Queen of the Peak (October)
Come out and experience the Tofino surfind adventure, or just watch some surfing – it’s a beautiful sport to observe.
More information…
Tofino Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
Located on the peaceful and scenic Mackenzie beach of British Columbia’s Clayoquot Sound, the BEST WESTERN Tin Wis Resort proudly offers friendly customer service and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. This Tofino area hotel, owned and operated by the First Nations People, features well-appointed guest rooms each fully equipped with cable satellite television and high-speed Internet access.
Enjoy a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant before taking advantage of a variety of other hotel amenities including an exercise facility, hot tub, business services and meeting facilities accommodating up to 250 people. Just steps from the hotel; Mackenzie beach, local galleries and shops, whale watching tours, fishing trip charters, fun on the water.
Contact info: BEST WESTERN Tin Wis Resort Lodge, Box 389 1119 Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, British Columbia, V0R 2Z0, CA Toll Free: (800) 661-9995 Phone: (250) 725-4445 Fax: (250) 725-4447 Email: guestservices@tinwis.com
Come and enjoy surfing in Tofino and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Antique Row in Victoria BC is a delightful section of downtown Victoria on Vancouver Island . Some say Victoria is more English than England with Antique Row to prove it. It is a three-block section of Fort Street labeled “Antique Row”. Victoria in British Columbia is about as British as it comes. This section of the city has many well-preserved Edwardian or Victoria buildings where a number of the antique shops are located.
Best British Antiques In North America
Antique Row, with dozens of collectible and antique shops, is considered to be one of the best sources of British antiques in North America.
Getting to Antique Row
Antique Row is located on Fort Street between Blanshard and Cook streets in downtown Victoria. It about a 15 minute drive from the BC Parliament Buildings in Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
What you will find at Antique Row
• Wonderful antique shops
• Wide variety of pictures, furniture, tables, kitchen items
• British food, textiles and more
• Fine china
• Antique furniture
• Bric-a-brac from the Victoria era
• Art galleries
• Auction houses with regularly schedule auctions
• Well preserved buildings
Victoria Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Carlton Plaza Hotel is proud to offer the finest in accommodations and friendly customer service at an affordable rate! The convenient downtown location of this Victoria hotel is ideal for guests visiting the Royal British Columbia Museum, Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria’s IMAX® Theater. Butchart Gardens is just a short drive away.
Guests looking for things to do in Victoria will enjoy being close to local attractions, theaters, golf courses, and whale watching expeditions. Favorite attractions also include Antique Row, the Royal London Wax Museum and the Maritime Museum of British Columbia.
Contact info: BEST WESTERN Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel, 642 Johnson Street, Victoria, BC Canada, V8W 1M6, CA. Toll Free: (800) 663-7241 Local: (250) 388-5513 Fax: (250) 388-5343. email:mailto:reservations@bestwesterncarltonplazahotel.com .
Enjoy all that Victoria has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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The Vancouver Island Conference Centre is located in beautiful downtown Nanaimo on the sheltered eastern coast about mid Island. It is just a block from the spectacular Nanaimo Harbour, waterfront parks and walkways. The award winning conference centre, opened in 2008, is considered to be the finest full-service convention center on Vancouver Island.
The conference centre has a number of conference and meeting spaces including a 13,000 sq ft ballroom which is divisible, 9 multi-purpose meeting rooms, business centre, a 200-seat tiered auditorium and a 800-seat Port Theatre adjacent to the conference center.
The Vancouver Island Conference Centre, a favorite amongst conference planners, received the prestigious Silver Service Award from Meeting Professionals International. It is conveniently located to service all parts of the Island.
Vancouver Island Conference Centre Facilities
The conference centre can accommodate:
• conferences for up to 1,300 attendees
• trade shows
• small and mid-sized meeting with first-class audio-visual including screens and projectors in each meeting room
• weddings for up to 1,300 guests
The conference centre provides professional service, friendly people all in an a relaxed environment and views to rave about. Nanaimo has one of Canada’s most temperate climates – never too hot or too cold.
Getting to the Vancouver Island Conference Centre
• A 20 minute flight from Vancouver International airport, then a 15 minute drive.
• Sea plane service from Vancouver and other locations, then a few blocks walk.
• Scenic BC Ferry service from Vancouver’s Departure Bay (West Vancouver) or Tsawwassen (South of Vancouver close to the US Border)
• Ferry service from Washington State to Victoria at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, then a 1.5 hour drive to Nanaimo.
• By highway from all parts of the Island.
Contact Info for the Vancouver Island Conference Centre
Tel: 250-244-4050 or 1-866-430-MEET (6338).
Fax: 250-244-4055 email: meet@viconference.com.
Nanaimo Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western which is just a couple of blocks from the Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC)
The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Nanaimo Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo over looking picturesque Nanaimo Harbour. Our charming heritage boutique-style hotel is decorated in a style that blends old world class with modern conveniences to make your stay at this Nanaimo hotel a comfortable and memorable one!
Offering spectacular views of Nanaimo, along with Nanaimo’s inner harbour, the BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel features 70 well-appointed guestrooms. Our Nanaimo hotel also features a popular onsite restaurant: Deep Blue, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, complimentary overnight parking, and more!
The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel Nanaimo, 70 Church Street, Nanaimo, BC Canada V9R 5H4
Toll Free: 1-(800)661-2449 Local : (250)754-6835 Fax: (250) 754-2638 Email: email: reservations@dorchesternanaimo.com
Enjoy all that the Nanaimo area has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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Located near Duncan BC on beautiful Vancouver Island’s Cowichan Valley, Duncan Meadows Golf and Country Club offers exceptional year-round golf. The nearly 7,000 yard Claude Muret designed course offers challenging play for every level of golfer. Duncan Meadow hosted the 2009 Amateur Men’s Championship and in 2011 hosts the Royale Cup Canadian Women’s Amateur championship.
Duncan Meadows is a impressive mix of golf links and parkland on the rolling landscape. In addition to great golf, you can enjoy the forest, mountains, valley views and wildlife–deer and bald eagles. The view of the magnificent Mt Prevost is breathtaking.
With excellent practice facilities including a large driving range, chipping and putting areas, Duncan Meadows is also a great place to polish your game. If you looking to improve your game or need some pro help you get instruction from Kelvin Trott.
Membership at Duncan Meadows Golf Course
Duncan Meadows offers a number of membership categories from regular to seniors to couples to corporate to juniors. Deepening on the membership level members get advance booking privileges, weekend and holiday tee times and more.
The course is open to the public but they ask for 7 days advance booking for non-members.
Weddings at Duncan Meadows Golf Course
Duncan Meadows is an ideal location for weddings in Duncan and the Cowichan Valley. Services and amenities include: banquet facility, full bar, outstanding views and outdoor garden.
Contact Information for Duncan Meadows
Owners: Ming & Grace Hui
6507 North Road, Duncan BC. V9L 6K9
Tel: 250-746-8993 Fax: 250-746-8955
email: golf@duncanmeadows.com
www.duncanmeadows.com
Getting to Duncan Meadows
• A few minutes drive from Duncan, BC. – take Highway 1, exit on Cowichan Valley Highway (BC 18) West, left on Somenos, right on Drinkway Rd, left on N Rd and you are right there.
• From Nanaimo – less than an hours drive south on Highway 1, exit right on Cowichan Valley Highway as above.
• From Victoria – about an hours drive north on Highway 1, exit left on Cowichan Valley Highway as above.
Duncan Accommodations
There are a number of hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts to pick from including our sponsors, Best Western:
BEST WESTERN Cowichan Valley Inn is a quiet sanctuary at the foot of Mount Prevost and conveniently located near the Cowichan Commons Mall and BC Forest Discovery Centre.
The hotel features 43 well-appointed guestrooms and the convenience of onsite dining at Choices Restaurant and Station Pub Bar and Grill. The friendly, helpful staff at the BEST WESTERN Cowichan Valley Inn is ready to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Duncan, BC.
Contact info: BEST WESTERN Cowichan Valley Inn, 6474 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan, British Columbia V9L 6C6. Toll Free: (800) 927-6199 Telephone: (250) 748-2722 Fax: (250) 748-2207. Email: mailto:info@cowichanvalleyinn.com.
Enjoy all that Duncan has to offer and please tell your friends.
Re-published from www.amazingvancouverisland.com under creative commons license.
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