Victoria to Nanaimo
The drive from Victoria, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, to the harbour city of Nanaimo can take as little as ninety minutes, but with everything to see and do along the way, it could take much, much longer.
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Victoria
Victoria, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, is full of rich culture, farm to table dining, and lush gardens. Explore scenic waterfront harbours, have afternoon tea at the grand Empress Hotel, or discover Victoria’s many parks and gardens. One of Canada’s greatest cultural treasures, the Royal BC Museum, tells the stories of British Columbia in ways that enlighten, stimulate and inspire.
Langford
Isolated by nature, connected by spirit. Langford, a city surrounded by nature located on Southern Vancouver Island, is the ideal place to escape to. Whether it’s majestic hikes, epic bike trails, golfing, paddle boarding the pristine lakes, an ultimate spa day or hotel stay, Langford offers something for every traveller.
Malahat & Bamberton
The sea-to-sky scenic views of the Malahat and Bamberton are the first stop in the Cowichan region on the drive north. Enjoy the peaceful beachfront and clear waters of Bamberton with a night’s camping at Bamberton Provincial Park before enjoying the vistas from the Malahat Drive
Mill Bay
Mill Bay celebrates the intersection of warm climate, rich soil, and plentiful rainfall through its family-run wineries. Spend a day walking through the rows of grapes and you’ll be greeted with a passion for cultivation firmly rooted in ancestral ties to the Cowichan landscape.
Cobble Hill
Cobble Hill is a quintessential Cowichan experience of family-owned farmland meeting sea. Vineyards, a smattering of produce farms, and the chance to sample heritage apples-turned-cider can all be found here.
Shawnigan Lake
Here, you’ll find three Provincial Parks, extensive trails, and lake activities that draw friendly locals and returning visitors every summer. Sand beaches invite those looking to soak up the joyful, recreational spirit bustling around them from the comfort of a blanket.
Cowichan Bay
The wooden boardwalks of Cowichan Bay are one of the best places to appreciate our maritime heritage. You’ll find an 89-metre heritage pier, the community-based, light-filled Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre, and the Cowichan Bay Wooden Boat Society here.
Duncan
Duncan, the heart of the Cowichan Region, is found just off the Trans Canada Highway, about half-way between Victoria and Nanaimo. Enjoy a day of shopping and wine tasting, or get outdoors with a hiking or kayaking trip.
Maple Bay & Genoa Bay
Maple Bay and Genoa Bay are the perfect place for marine enthusiasts seeking a rural coastal retreat. Maple Bay’s two waterfront pubs provide the perfect locale to soak up the sea-to-sky views without stepping off dry land.
Crofton
The Crofton Community Seawalk invites visitors to enjoy a relaxed wander along its accessible boardwalk, pausing to watch for birdlife and finding a few artistic installations along the way.
Chemainus
Chemainus is famous for its public art installations including over fifty murals on the sides of shops and buildings around town. Shop trendy boutiques and galleries, visit the well-known Chemainus Theatre, or take part in a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.
Thetis Island
On Thetis Island you’ll find locals nourished by the awe found in nature and the empowerment that comes from collaborating with neighbours. A community spirit that is experienced through projects like The People’s Apothecary Garden and the Thetis Island Nature Conservancy.
Saltair
The village of Saltair lives up to its name—a small community that celebrates rural life with its beautiful coastal views and forest trails. Here, it’s not uncommon to bump into an artist on the foreshore, peacefully surveying the view for inspiration.
Ladysmith
Packed with things to do all year long, Ladysmith is home to the Festival of Lights, Vancouver Island’s largest family winter festival. In the summer, enjoy the beaches, ocean cruises, and seaside concerts. Golfing, birdwatching, and unique shopping are popular year-round.
Nanaimo
Nanaimo is a true West Coast community with one of the longest shorelines in Canada. Go from city centre to wilderness in just a matter of minutes and discover the endless adventures that await for biking, paddling, whale watching, ziplining, diving, and more.