Stormy Summer Sunset
On the way to pick up my son from his university classes in Nanaimo, we were graced with a stormy, summer sunset in late August. Couldn’t resist stopping at Lantzville and Piper’s Lagoon to get a few photographs…
Holiday Recap Post 1 – Whale Watching out of Cowichan Bay
As Summer begins to fade, and Autumn bursts in full splendor, I figured it was time I told you about the Summer I spent trekking around the Island. We visited some old favorites, and discovered new ones to add to our “must return” list. This will take a few posts, so I am going to do one a day until I’m caught up.
First up was a whale watching excursions out of Cowichan Bay with Ocean Ecoventures. I have to admit I was nervous. Although we’d been whale watching before, we’d never done it in a zodiac boat. Would I fall out by just getting in? Would I look silly in the orange suit they give you to protect you from the spray? What if we fell overboard in the middle of the ocean? I can’t swim. Needless to say, this post proves I survived. We had an amazing time. The staff was very encouraging and supportive despite my constant list of questions and concerns. Before I knew it was dressed in this tremendously heavy orange suit with a not so flattering match of baby blue sea goggles over my eyes, zipping across the ocean waves in search of Orcas! It wasn’t easy keeping the camera dry, and the ride was a little bumpy, but the experience was once in a lifetime. As our luck would have it the whales (technically large dolphins) were out near Sooke that afternoon, so we had a long ride ahead of us. The captain did stop to allow us a little wildlife viewing on the way. Finally — THE moment arrived. Majestic black fins protruding out of the water in front of us, a remote lighthouse and snow capped mountains as our backdrop. We watched in awe. It is an experience every Islander and visitor should have. We definitely plan on going back for another go!
We finished up our day with a picnic at Maple Grove Park in Cowichan Bay, and then took a side trip to see the Kinsol Trestle on the way back home.
Here are a couple of videos I shot of the Orcas
Early Morning at Collier Dam
My son started his classes at Vancouver Island University this morning so we were out of the house bright and early. After dropping him off, I needed some thinking time — Collier Dam was the perfect place.
Summer is in Full Swing!
I’ve been busy writing, taking photographs and preparing for my next wave of out of town company. I’m looking forward to exploring and showing off the wonders of Oceanside, as a good host should. Here are a few recent Island Moments to tide you over, but there is much much more to come. If you’ve got any suggestions on “out of the way must see Island places” I’d love to hear them!
Getting Away from it all in Cowichan Valley
The Cowichan Valley has become our second home. With each visit, we discover something new. We’ve only tapped the surface of the treasures that await the adventurous spirit…here are a few pictures from yesterday’s outing…
Our first stop was the recently restored, and opened Kinsol Trestle which is part of the Canada Trail. We’d been up here many times before, and it was great to see so many people using the trail and crossing the trestle. Literally, people from 2 to 82 were taking in the spectacle. Kudos go out to the people of the Cowichan Valley on pulling together and making this historic restoration happen. Definitely a feather in your cap!
The view from mid -trestle are breathtaking on both sides!
On the way back into town we passed by this quaint roadside garlic stand, while of flock of turkey vultures frolicked in the field behind.
We decided to explore the coast line are of the valley today. I was fascinated by the picturesque float houses of Maple Bay Marina. I want to live there!
From there we headed to Genoa Bay. Tiny, but happening, the seaside village’s life centers around the marina.
More float houses! I wanna live here too!
An extended family of quail, humored us and cooperatively posed for photos before scurrying off into the underbrush.
After a delicious lunch at Genoa Bay Cafe (fish and chips tastes better when eaten on a patio overlooking the ocean) we explore the marina which was home to a general store, an art gallery and more…yup…more….float houses.
Despite the laid back atmosphere things, were bustling here. Kayakers, sailboats, float planes, wildlife…
From there we headed back towards Duncan, and headed to the Damali Lavender farm. There was a slight breeze in the air that carried with it the most amazing scent. We meandered very slowly here, taking a self guided tour, stopping to purchase some culinary lavender and organic tea before calling it a day.
Hope your BC Day was as wonderful as ours!
Happy BC Day!
Here’s a little video I made of the reasons why I love BC!
I hope everyone gets a chance to get out today and enjoy what makes British Columbia one of the best places live in the world!
Rain Forest Trail – Pacific Rim National Park
“Let’s just go on a short walk, break up the driving” I told him — a few kms later, I wouldn’t have placed any bets on him letting me talk him into any more “short walks”. That said — it has become a great memory. Although the length of the trail wasn’t difficult, the steep incline of a multitude of stairs would make this a difficult hike for those with mobility issues.
The trail is located on the Pacific Rim Highway heading towards Tofino, and is well marked.
The hike takes you into the heart of an ancient rain forest, via a wooden boardwalk and a seemingly endless series of steep stairs. It was well worth it, a once in a lifetime experience to stand where history began.
You can find more information here
In a Secluded Corner…
Spent a lovely morning in #Coombs. Picked up some fresh vegetables, and strolled through the bustle, taking pictures and people watching. Behind the garden nursery, we found an oasis of peace… and the crowd just seemed to fade into the distance for a few minutes
