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Cowichan Region of Vancouver Island
Vineyards and farmland, parks and waterways, arts and culture — Cowichan is a fantastic place to visit and live.
Charming lakeside and oceanside communities, bountiful vineyards and farms, gorgeous lakes and clear rivers, plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family, abundant parkland, and a rich arts and culture community, including totems, murals, festivals, theatre, and artists and artisans — Cowichan is truly a rural paradise! Cowichan is also a superb vacation destination offering family lakeside holidays, fishing adventures, cycling and hiking trips, sailing and boating, and all kinds of cultural experiences.
FACT > With more than 17,000 hectares of rich agricultural land, the Cowichan region is a premier destination for culinary tourism.
FACT > The Kinsol Trestle, considered a marvel of engineering when it was built in 1920, has been rehabilitated and re-opened for recreational purposes.
THINGS TO DO
Pacific Marine Circle Route
This established, fully paved, 255-kilometre driving route includes several Cowichan region communities.
Winery Tours and Tastings
With its ideal growing conditions, the wine industry has firmly taken root in Cowichan. With nearly 20 vineyards, Cowichan is quickly gaining a well-deserved reputation for award-winning wines. Tour the wineries and a cidery and see first-hand why this area is sometimes referred to as “Napa North” and “la Provence du Nord.”
Fishing
A regional specialty for more than a century! The Cowichan River is one of the finest trout and salmon streams on Vancouver Island and is world renowned among fly-fishers. Shawnigan Lake, Koksilah River, Cowichan Lake, Mesachie Lake, Nitinat Lake, and Nitinat River are just a few more freshwater fishing favourites. Salmon, prawns, and crab top the list of saltwater catches. Charters and guides are available.
Kayaking/Canoeing
The freshwater paddling opportunities are excellent, especially at 34-kilometre-long Cowichan Lake. White-water kayak and canoe year-round on the Cowichan River and during the rainy winter season on the Chemainus and Koksilah rivers. Find launch sites for saltwater kayaking from Mill Bay to Ladysmith.
Cycling/Mountain Biking
The country roads that connect the vineyards and farms are very popular for cycling. The Cowichan Valley Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, is another good pick and can be accessed from Glenora (southwest of Duncan) and Shawnigan Lake. For a rougher ride, check out Mount Tzouhalem, Maple Mountain, and Spectacle Lake Provincial Park.
Hiking
The Cowichan region has numerous trails, especially in the provincial parks. Top trails include the 20-kilometre Cowichan River Footpath; the Trans Canada Trail; the 56-kilometre Great Lake Walk around Cowichan Lake; and the trails in Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park. Visitor Centres have details.
Windsurfing/Kiteboarding
Nitinat Lake is a destination for windsurfers and kiteboarders. Cowichan Lake and Shawnigan Lake are also excellent choices.
Boating/Sailing
Sublime scenery, sheltered waters, and proximity to the Gulf Islands make the Cowichan a wonderful choice for boating. Marinas and moorage are available. Charters and bare-boat rentals can be arranged.
More Activities in the Cowichan Region
Horseback riding, diving, parasailing, golfing, and freshwater recreation, such as tubing on the Cowichan River, jet skiing, water-skiing, houseboating, wake boarding, and boating are more great ways to enjoy the Cowichan.
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
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South, Central, North Central Island and Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
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