Central Coast

In 2005 we stayed in the Comox Valley, slightly further to the north of Coombs where we stayed on our 2010 journey. It seems fitting to write about it now since I am already describing Vancouver Island. The Valley stretches some 50 km along the eastern side of Vancouver Island from Fanny Bay to Saratoga Beach. It is a collection of rolling mountains, delicate alpine meadows, rushing rivers, pristine lakes, lush forests, fertile farms and more than 40 green parks. It is a perfect base for exploring further afield and easy to get to with its own airport and regular ferry crossings to Powell’s River on the Sunshine Coast which is the way we approached it. Note to self: Remember to write about the Sunshine Coast when I finish with the island.

Looking across to the mainland.

The name Comox is derived from the Kwakwala Indian word Komuckway, meaning Place of Plenty, a reference to the abundant game and berries in the Comox Valley. It is a pretty town with a great town square, unique sitting areas and a Fisherman’s Wharf, which features an extensive marina with a boardwalk perfect for viewing the many commercial and pleasure boats that use its facilities and watching the reflection of a full moon in its clear waters if you are lucky enough to be there at the right time.

This charming seaside village is surrounded by a beautiful valley and the imposing Comox Glacier (seen below), the Forbidden Plateau and Mount Washington.

Nearby Cumberland is a step back in time as it retains the quaint charm of its former years as a coal-mining village with heritage residential and commercial buildings, antique shops, a self-guided walk of the area’s historical sights and a delightful museum where you can actually walk in a former coal seam.

To the south is the quiet seaside community of Fanny Bay, famous for its oysters, and the laid-back Denman and Hornby Islands with charming shops, galleries and gardens and walking trails. Each of these islands deserve a day to themselves as they have a lot of individual history, culture and character to discover.

And there is even a grassed-roofed restaurant where you can relax and have a bite to eat whilst waiting for the next ferry to arrive.

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Heyjude

I have lived in the UK for most of my life, but when young I definitely had wanderlust and even ended up living in South Africa for several years which was a wonderful experience. I now look forward to a long and leisurely retirement doing what I like most - gardening, photography, walking and travelling.

9 thoughts on “Central Coast”

  1. Looks great Jude, and a continuing confirmation of the touristic attributes of the region.Lovely photos too. Wish I was planning a trip there soon. (And could, afford it!) Great post, regards as always, Pete. X

    1. Thanks Pete. You may have already guessed that I really love Vancouver Island. And you are right, it is expensive, but I am hoping that I will have the chance to go back again… still so much to see 🙂

    1. It is a lovely area with lots to see and do within close proximity – a good base for exploring the island, we even went across to the west coast for a day from here!

  3. those scenes are quite idyllic and feels like a nice warm and long weekend, thanks for sharing
    I’m inviting you to link up to Travel Photo Mondays, the link is up all week, hope you can join us..

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