The moment you step off from the ferry and begin exploring the Vancouver Island, you’ll feel blissful. One of the places on the island where you can indulge in some interesting activities outdoors is Comox Valley. There are so many things to do here that you’ll wish you had more time.
Whether you want to explore the elegant restaurants or go shopping, Comox Valley would be an excellent choice. Here are some of the things you can do while exploring Comox Valley:
1. Sample locally-made sweets
When you’re on the 5th Street in Courtenay, don’t miss ‘Hot Chocolates’. It has been a local favorite on this boutique-lined street since the late 1980s. Their charming storefront never fails to attract the attention of passers-by. It often displays some assorted hand-crafted Belgian chocolates.
The sweets are also infused with cream, wine, house-roasted nuts, and fruit. All these ingredients come from the local sources. If you have a sweet tooth, these locally-made sweets can be an excellent treat.
2. Visit Mount Washington
Over 1,500 acres of terrain suited for skiing can be accessed by exploring Mount Washington Alpine Resort. This vast terrain is serviced by 5 lifts and 4 Magic Carpets at this resort. It can keep the snowboarders and skiers occupied for a couple of weekends during winters.
You can choose to rent a condo to enjoy more than 55 kilometers of this winter wonderland. This is not just a destination for winters. Summer and fall can be equally exciting with chair lifts to the top of Mount Washington. You can enjoy the awe-inspiring views of Comox Valley during these rides.
3. Explore the Bear Bait Trail
The name may seem intimidating, but you must certainly not miss this scenic trail. It extends to more than 4.5 kilometers and has a minimal elevation. You can park your bike near the picnic area and look for the signage. This trail follows the Puntledge River and passes through a forest that’s picture-perfect.
Upon reaching an unpaved road, you can head right. Move further until you notice a sign for the fish hatchery. When you arrive at the hatchery, you can either loop back or continue towards Nymph Falls and Barber’s Hole.
4. Go kayaking to the Tree Island
Also called the Sandy Island Marine Provincial Park, the Tree Island is an excellent kayaking destination. The kayakers can embark on a half-day or full-day trip to this small island. Those who are interested in the full-day trip can begin near the Courtenay Air Park. For a shorter paddle, they can launch from Goose Spit or Union Bay. You can also choose to go with a guide by booking with any of the local tour operators.
5. Enjoy shopping at the boutiques on 5th Street
You can find book stores, coffee shops and restaurants besides the stylish fashion boutiques on 5th Street. The locals consider it a shopper’s paradise and you’ll get the same feeling while exploring its fabulous offerings. In some of the boutiques, you may also get the chance to chat with the owner.
You can begin at 5th Street and stroll on one side of the street up to Fitzgerald Street and then loop. An artfully crafted expresso at Mudsharks Coffee is highly recommended.