Category: Favourite Places

Favourite places to visit on Vancouver Island.

That Summer Feeling on Quadra Island

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys
Quadra Island, Drew Harbour and Rebecca Spit

Name a place that gives you “that summer feeling”.  Without hesitation, Quadra Island!

A quick 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River on Vancouver Island, Quadra Island is part of the Discovery Islands archipelago. It is located along the inside passage, between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia. If you’ve cruised to Alaska through the inside passage, you would have sailed right past, with Quadra Island on your right-hand side and Vancouver Island on the left. It is one of the best known of the Discovery Islands, and the perfect summer outdoor destination.

Quathiaski Cove, Quadra Island

Stunning natural beauty abounds. Beaches, parks and endless outdoor recreation opportunities call out. One of those places you would like to keep secret. Yet, is too good not to share. I love nothing better than spending a summer day exploring the island. Better yet, escape for a few days, or more. A perfect summer getaway.

For me, it is filled with childhood memories of summer camping trips with family and friends. Vehicles loaded, boats hitched, and the convoy up island began. Adults, kids and dogs, ready for an epic adventure.

The dads dreamed of fishing and catching one of the giant “Pacific Salmon” the area is known for. Us kids couldn’t wait for swimming, raft building, and exploring. You know, all the fun stuff that camping brings. While the moms dreamed of peace and quiet, but may have gotten the short end of the stick. It was a lot of work looking after all of us. Despite this, I know they still looked forward to the yearly trip. How could you not, when presented with its stunning natural beauty.

The excitement grew once we were on the little ferry across to Quadra Island. Shortly thereafter, pulling into our campsite on the beach at We Wai Kai campground. The most beautiful of places bordering Rebecca Spit Provincial Park.

Drew Harbour towards end of Rebecca Spit

It was a summer spent creating memories for a lifetime.  Quality time with family and friends. No worries, no stress, just lots of outdoor fun. We all look back fondly now with smiles and laughter. Remembering the good times, and those friends that are sadly no longer with us.

The stories have grown, like any good fish story should. Memories have been passed on. New generations have been introduced to, and fallen in love with the island. Many of us still return whenever possible. The little island that is Quadra, will always hold a special place in our hearts. It is the perfect place to find “that summer feeling”.

Looking for something to do on the Island, below are just a few of my favourites.

  • Camp beside the ocean at We Wai Kai campsite. Stunning location with a protected harbour. Great for swimming and water activities.
  • Pack up a picnic and spend the day at Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park. A popular day-use park, it’s perfect for a day of summer fun. The Inside of the Spit overlooks sheltered Drew Harbour, and there are picnic tables nearby. Go for a swim, dip your toes or just enjoy the view. Don’t forget to bring your favourite outdoor games as there is a great grassy area in the middle for badminton, frisbee, bocce, or a soccer game.

    The outside of the spit is open water with amazing views across to the other islands. Not for swimming but you can’t beat exploring the huge amount of driftwood that washes up. It’s perfect for fort building, and hiding out. Keep your eyes peeled to the ocean as last time we were there we heard the humpback whales blowing, and then saw them swimming on by. Be sure to take a walk along the trail from the parking lot that leads to the very end of the spit. It is well worth the walk and beautiful scenery along the way.
  • Cape Mudge Lighthouse.  I have a thing about lighthouses, so this is always a favourite stop.  I love to look at them and wonder what perils they have seen. Standing tall and bright, as they guide ships through the narrow passages between the islands at night.

    The lighthouse is located on the southwestern-most coast of Quadra Island. It stands 12 metres (40 feet) tall and was constructed in 1916. The second lighthouse on this site, having replaced the original in 1898. It marks the southern entrance of the Discovery Passage. A wonderful place to sit and reflect, take pictures, and walk along the beach surrounding it. Be extra cautious around the water here, this is not a place for swimming.  The current can be very strong and dangerous through this area.

    I’ve recently learned that you can stay at the Lighthouse Cottage on the grounds at Cape Mudge lighthouse which I think would be amazing. It is part of the accommodation which can be booked through Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge (Cape Mudge Resorts).
  • Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge. Last summer we had the pleasure of having lunch with friends at this secluded ocean front resort. It is truly beautiful and inviting. The lodge features “authentic Pacific Coast native architecture, art and culture based on traditional Kwagiulth historical values”. If you’re here for lunch, be sure to have a wander through to look at the beautiful artwork in the main lobby.

    We had lunch on their impressive sundeck with views across the ocean to Campbell River. It was a delightful meal and nice way to spend the afternoon with friends. I could have spent more time just enjoying the view with a drink in hand.
  • Heriot Bay is a picturesque hub on the east coast of Quadra Island with dramatic views of the mainland coast. Here you can catch the ferry across to Cortes Island, find various services for locals and visitors alike, and visit the historic Heriot Bay Inn. Enjoy the views from the Inn, have a meal, check out the marina, go kayaking or whatever “floats your boat”.
  • Check out the local artists on the Island. Do a Quadra Island Studio Tour.
  • Support local. Check out the little shops and eating places that you see along the way.

These are just a few of my favourite activities on Quadra Island. It is a beautiful place to explore. An outdoor enthusiasts delight. You can take your pick from so many activities, do as much or as little as you like. Hiking, biking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, fishing, beachcombing, camping, canoeing, sea kayaking, sailing, diving, snorkelling, and so much more. Be as active or as inactive as you like. Plenty of places to just sit and take in the scenery, read a book, or meditate in the serene surroundings. It’s your choice!

Now you can see just a little of why, Quadra Island has “That Summer Feeling.”

  • Cape Mudge Lighthouse
  • Rebecca Spit
  • Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge/Cape Mudge
  • Sundeck at Tsa Kwa Luten looking towards Campbell River
  • Picnic at Rebecca Spit,
  • View from Tsa Kwa Luten
  • Trail out to tip of Rebecca Spit
  • Looking out from eastern side of Rebecca Spit
  • Drew Harbour
  • Cortes ferry off tip of Rebecca Spit
  • Heriot Bay Marina

Market Fun and Goats on the Roof in Coombs

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

If there are Goats on the Roof, you must be in Coombs!

Goats on the Roof – Old Country Market is a childhood favorite. A trip up island was never complete without a stop in this wonderful little place in hopes of seeing the goats. A childhood delight that was sure to bring a smile to my face.  I couldn’t wait to spot the first goat on the roof, and heaven forbid if there were none in sight.

Maybe, it’s my Norwegian heritage calling to me, I can at least wonder, but still to this day, I love this place.  The novelty of seeing goats where you don’t expect them, is always quite fun. I’ve never been to Norway but it’s on top of my bucket list, and for now I will imagine that everyone has at least one goat on their roof. Yes, I know times have changed but a girl can still dream.

The original Coombs Old Country Market was created by Kristian Graaten.  Kristian and his wife, along with their children, emigrated from Norway to Vancouver Island in the 1950’s. The inspiration for the Old Country Market came from his homeland and the small community of Lillehammer where he grew up. Many Norwegian homes and farm structures were built directly into the hillside with the sod roof becoming an extension of the hillside.  This was his inspiration to include a sod roof in his plans for the market.

What started out as a farm stand beside the highway in 1973, grew to include selling hamburgers to travelers en route to the West Coast the next year, then two years after that, the market was built. When the grass grew too tall on the roof, it was jokingly mentioned that goats would be the answer for that, along with a few belly laughs about what those driving by would think. The joke soon became a reality though and “Goats on the Roof” was born and has been thriving ever since.

The goats now appear back on the roof every spring, after a winter vacation spent searching for greener pastures. While the green roof is environmentally friendly (insulation and evaporation), it also provides the perfect habitat for the goats, and with the goats come the visitors. Islanders, day trippers, and travellers from all over the world flock to see them. The little fruit stand beside the highway, has turned into one of the top tourist destinations, and no one can resist the urge to see the goats on the roof. It’s always fun to see who will be the first to spot one.

Goats on the Roof is a wonderful little market, and a delight at any age.  Looking for a picnic for your trek up or down island? They have the most amazing market bakery, deli and produce store, where you will find all kinds of tasty treats to take with you. Don’t just grab and go though, unless you’re in a hurry, be sure to check out all that the market has to offer. From the market under the grass roof, to the produce centre, garden centre, restaurants or little boutique shops, there is something for everyone. Have children with you, they have the simplest little children’s toys which still delight me to this day. The adults in the group may enjoy browsing for unique little decor ideas for the home. You never know what you will find.

Hot day and needing to cool off, then ice cream is surely in order. Check out the Billy Gruff Creamery, with over 60 flavours, I think you will find at least one to your licking. If donuts are more your thing, try Billy G’s Donut Shop, located in the A-frame next to the main market.  Be tempted by names such as Billy Gruff Bombers, Gimme S’More, Nanaimo Bar, or an old-time favourite Honey Glazed.

Coombs makes a wonderful family trip, couple’s trip, or perhaps a side trip on a girls’ getaway weekend. There are so many spots on the Island for a weekend away with the besties; and a stop in Coombs will have you laughing, smiling, and reliving old times. So many ideas for a fun weekend away but that is a whole exciting topic on its own. Coombs isn’t just Goats on the Roof, there is more to see and do in this little place, and the surrounding area. It is an eclectic collection of quirky little shops, studios, hobby farms, Butterfly World, and so much more. A fun place for the whole family to explore.

Goats on the Roof – Old Country Market still ranks high on my list of fun things to do on the island.  I loved it as a child, and I still love it as an adult. It’s a fun place to visit, and sometimes with all that life has to throw at us, we just need to let our inner child out. Time to laugh until we cry, smile until our face hurts, and give in to delicious temptations for just one day.

Location

Ask any Islander, where is the place with the goats on the roof, and they will know where you are talking about. Looking for more specific directions:

Goats on the Roof Old Country Market
2326 Alberni Highway, Coombs (Vancouver Island), BC Canada

Coombs is located on Highway 4A (Alberni Highway), approximately 9 km west of Parksville. Highway 4A is the main highway across the Island that connects the east and west coast. A popular stop on the long drive to Tofino and Ucluelet.

A New Life for the Historic Kinsol Trestle

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

Vancouver Island offers a never-ending list of amazing places to explore. One of these awe-inspiring “Must See” places is The Kinsol Trestle. The perfect destination for those wanting to get out and explore the great outdoors.  Walk, run, or cycle your way through a bit of Vancouver Island history.

I remember as a child walking beside the railway or crossing its path in search of my dad’s favorite fishing holes. The easiest way to find them was to follow the line to where it crossed the river.  I’m not sure why the fish always had to find the most difficult of places to hide in. Perhaps it was just my dad felt there would be more chance of finding the big ones in some hard to find secret location. It always made for great adventure. The rail trestles were a sight to behold. Looming high above the river, they were made even scarier when a train went thundering over them.

Sadly, the railways of Vancouver Island are no longer in working order. Attempts have been made to bring back a passenger rail service on southeastern Vancouver Island, but the cost is a major barrier to this. Fortunately, some railway lines have been turned into beautiful walking and cycling trails. Flat, wide gravel paths allow for easy accessibility and navigation for all levels.

The Kinsol Trestle is on one of these trails. It is part of the Cowichan Valley Trail and is one of eight trestles along the route.  The trail is open to cyclists, hikers, and equestrians. From the parking lot on the south side of the Trestle, it is an easy approximate 1.2 km walk on the old railway grade.

The ruggedness of Vancouver Island created the need for efficient ways to transport the region’s huge, old-growth timber. Wood trestles were built extensively to span the massive canyons and ravines. The Kinsol Trestle was built as part of a plan to connect Victoria to Nootka Sound, passing through Cowichan Lake and Port Alberni on its way. It is one of the tallest free-standing and most spectacular timber trail trestle structures in the world. Standing 614 feet (187 meters) in length and 145 feet (44 meters) above the Koksilah River, it is an impressive sight!

Its true magnificence and beauty can only be felt when you are standing on it or beside it. Designed by engineers but built by local farmers and loggers, the blood and sweat of the people who originally built it, is felt in every stand of timber. This old trestle was well worth bringing back to life. The painstaking preservation and restoration that went into returning it to its former glory, a gift for all to enjoy and appreciate. It is a definite “Must See”.

A little History of the Kinsol Trestle

1911 Line started by the Canadian Northern Pacific Railway. Designed by engineers but built by local farmers and loggers with investment funds from Canadian Western Lumber Company (largest lumber company in the world at the time). Trestle was never completed by CNPR and only reached Youbou before terminated.
1918 Building of Kinsol Trestle taken over by Canadian National Railways.
1920 Kinsol Trestle is officially finished.
1922 – 1925 Passenger trips become available through the Valley.
1931 -1936 Winter floods cause extensive damage to the Trestle. Reconstruction and installation of the lower Howe Truss.
1973 – 1984 CN completes last major repairs, then abandons part of the line. BC government takes over.
1979 The last train to cross the Kinsol. Trestle abandoned 1 year later.
1999 – 2010 After years of neglect and vandalism, the Cowichan Valley Regional District is commissioned to restore the Kinsol Trestle for park use. The BC Gov. proposes to remove trestle, but it was determined that rehabilitation will take place instead.
2011 – 2012 Restoration of the Kinsol Trestle finishes with a grand re-opening. CVRD continues to manage and maintain the Trestle as part of the Cowichan Valley Trail.

The Kinsol Trestle is located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

Directions

New and Old Memories in Cowichan Bay

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

It’s hard to pick one place to start blogging about. There are so many reasons I love Vancouver Island. Cowichan Bay is one of those, and the perfect place to start. I want you to be able to feel what I do, as the words gently flow.

See the boats bobbing in the marina. Smell the sea carried on an ocean breeze. Feel the water lapping at your feet or dripping from your paddle as you gently glide through it.  Hear the call of the seabirds flying overhead. And, Yes, I want you to taste the fish and chips at my favorite haunt, sip a glass of wine or a pint while taking in the view, and enjoy the smell and taste of my all-time favorite Ginger Cookie.

Cowichan Bay has much to offer, a little something for everyone. A unique and historic little waterfront community located on the east coast of southern Vancouver Island, a perfect mixture of all things I love.

As a child I spent many a weekend down at the village wharf with my family. Life revolved around fishing, and Cowichan Bay was the place to be. It attracted sport and commercial fishermen from all over, all vying for the chance to bring in the biggest catch, and my dad was one of its biggest fans. A salmon fishing capital, long before other places, it attracted the likes of John Wayne and Bing Crosby. It was a fishermen’s dream, and I was a captive audience to it all. If we weren’t heading out in the boat to fish, then we were down at the dock watching the fish come in.

General excitement and chatter was always about who had the biggest fish, where was it caught (as if they would give up their secrets), what did they use to catch it, and how much did it weigh. This is the place fishing stories were built. I remember fishing derby’s, boat festivals, and bullhead fishing. I was never much for fishing, but I’ve gained a huge appreciation for it as an adult.  What I wouldn’t give to have that abundance of freshly caught fish now, especially when you see the jaw dropping prices in the supermarket.

As for the bullhead fishing, that is a story in itself, and a major lesson in frustration.  Heaven forbid if you were anywhere near me.  I could get that hook tangled in anything around me – clothing, boat ropes, poles, myself, and occasionally other people. Maybe it was then I decided I wasn’t a fisherman, but I found my love for the sea. I much preferred to watch the fish swimming around the wharf, the starfish clinging to the rocks, the seals watching you with their puppy dog eyes, or the crabs scurrying about. It was my childhood playground.

Children grow up though, and places change. The fish were gone, the people stopped coming, and Cowichan Bay was lost for a time. It needed time to re-invent itself, and I needed time to realize how much I love this little place.

No longer just a fishing village of the past, it has managed to maintain its history and re-awaken as a trendy little tourist destination. Attracting those that can’t resist the lure of these little waterfront communities. A delight for boaters, kayakers, whale watchers, photographers, diners, artisan shoppers, and those that just want to BE.  I know my husband loves nothing better than a lazy afternoon with the perfect pint, overlooking the marina, at the Cowichan Bay Pub.  The ideal location to watch the comings and goings of the busy little marina. And, yes, you can still head out in hopes of bringing in that elusive Biggest Catch of the Day.

My old memories of Cowichan Bay remain close to my heart, and plenty of new ones have been created. A trip down Island is never complete without a visit. My love for the ocean came from my childhood experiences in places like this. It is part of being an Islander, which I appreciate even more now.

Favourite Things to Do While in Cowichan Bay

A walk on the wharf while enjoying the view and activity of the marina. Fish and Chips at the Rock Cod Café. Fine Dining at the Masthead Restaurant. A casual meal or drink at the Cowichan Bay Pub. Perusing the little shops and local businesses, and so much more.

Find your favorites, visit the village, and see what it has to offer.

Oh, and if you like Ginger Cookies, check out my favourites at the True Grain Bakery in Cowichan Bay, I don’t think you will be disappointed.

Vancouver Island, that One Special Place

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

I genuinely believe that we all have that one special place in our heart that feels like home. It may not always be the place we were born but more the place we feel we belong. That one place that no matter where we are in the world, the second we set foot back in that place, we know we are home. Embracing us like a warm hug, welcoming us back.

To me, that place is Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Yes, I was born here but spent more years away than here, only returning to stay in the last few years. I used to say on each and every visit that as soon as that ferry hit the island, I was home again. As a born mainlander, I do not think my husband ever fully understood it until he started to feel it himself. A few trips to the island were all it took. Washing away the stressors of chaotic city living for a short time.

Do not get me wrong, as a young adult I could not wait to get off the island. Big city living called my name. There were bigger and better things to see and do. I needed to discover, experience, and travel to find my way home. City living has its benefits, and beauty at times but it is hard to find yourself in a sea of so much chaos. I met my husband, we made a wonderful home and created memories, but the island still called.

Travel being a wonderful passion has also opened my eyes to so many new places. Places I have fallen in love with wholeheartedly, but more often than not, they are places that remind me of home. Give me a sandy beach, rugged coastline, spectacular mountain range or a forlorn lighthouse anywhere in the world, and I am at peace with myself.

So, this “Island Girl” is HOME but I should say, “we are home”. My husband has passed his probation to become a true islander. He drank the can of Lucky Lager. You must be a true Vancouver Islander to understand that one. I wouldn’t tell his buddies though as he considers himself a bit of a beer aficionado. I am sure he will be sharing some of his favourites with you in the future.

We cannot wait to share the beauty of Vancouver Island with you, and so much more. Our love of travel brings us to so many incredible places. Life is a little different now due to covid restrictions, but we will eventually see a return to a new normal. Until then, it gives us more time to support and promote local which we love to do.

Vancouver Island has so much to offer.  Amazing windswept shores, sandy beaches, stunning mountain ranges, old growth forest, and wonderful quirky little places to explore.

“A place your feet may leave but your heart will always be”.