24 Feb Fun In The Cowichan Valley!
With warm weather just around the corner, plus spring break and Easter coming up, it’s the perfect time to start to think about getting out and doing something fun.
While the warm beaches of Hawaii might be calling you, for those who want to stay close to home why not do a little exploring on on our very own island, just over the Malahat in the Cowichan Valley.
Here are our 3 favourite things to do in the area:
1.BC Forest Discovery Centre-While the centre is technically closed for the winter season they re-open March 31 for weekends only until early May when their hours start to expand for the summer season. During the Easter weekend they’ve got the Easter Eggspress where families can explore the grounds in search of nature’s surprises and secrets from the past by going on a scavenger hunt. Each child will receive some Easter treats at the end of the hunt (while supplies last). You can spend the rest of the day riding the Train,( a favourite childhood memory of ours!) touring the grounds, and making an Easter craft in the 100 year old schoolhouse. Be sure to visit with the Easter Bunny before you go!
2.Transfer Beach Park– This centrally located seaside park is a major gathering spot for activities and community events. Go for a swim, have a picnic, paddle a kayak, or enjoy the fabulous spray park and playground. There are live music events during the summer months at the large amphitheatre and there is a large off leash dog area too. Located just off the Trans Canada Highway, it’s the perfect place to stop on a trip up the island or to head to for a fun day trip with the kids and dogs too!
3. Wine Tours– The Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s wine country. Sheltered by a ridge of high mountains on the west and warmed by the ocean to the east, Cowichan shares similar growing conditions to the northern regions of Germany & France. Our warm summers, temperate mild winters and gravelly soils suit some recognizable grape varietals like Pinot Gris, Pint Noir, Ortega, and Marechal Foch.
The wineries, most of which are within 15 minutes of each other, produce classic reds, whites and sparkling wines. Cowichan’s terrior is ideal for growing Pinot grapes, and the resulting wines are gaining great respect on the world stage. Fruit wines, blackberry port-style wines, ciders, vodkas, gin and brandies round out the list of fine libations unique to the Cowichan Region.
Most of the wineries in the valley are small and family-owned. Some welcome picnickers. Others offer restaurants and dining facilities or beautiful venues for events, meetings and conferences. Going on a wine tour is a great way to spend the day with friends!
So there you have it, just a few of our favourite things to do in the Cowichan valley, and if you’re looking to relocate or purchase a summer cabin in this fantastic area be sure to check out some of our featured listings!