South Cowichan

Less than an hour's drive from Victoria over the breathtaking Malahat Drive, you will find the gently rolling countryside of South Cowichan, an area of farms and forests, lakes and rivers, rolling hills and ocean beaches. South Cowichan consists of the communities of Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cobble Hill, and Cowichan Bay.

Many creative people have been drawn to the beauty of this area and their work is available from many galleries and shops. Art Events and Tours are held during the summer months. The mild micro climate has produced four excellent vineyards as well as a cidery. Some vineyards offer tours and all have tasting rooms and shops. In September there is a wine festival which includes a variety of events.

Located in Cobble Hill is the opportunity to challenge your game on a par 71, 18-hole 6200-yard championship golf course. Enjoy breathtaking views from Mt. Baker to the Satellite Channel. Features include golf shop and fine dining.

In Cowichan Bay you will find one of the oldest grass tennis courts at the South Cowichan Lawn Tennis Club. Established in 1887, there are 7 grass and 2 hard courts. The Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre is a museum of local marine history, from aboriginal canoes to whalers. Also located here, the Marine Ecology Station where colourful marine habitats are displayed in aquaria with magnifying glasses; and for 'eyeball to eyeball' exploring, there is sealife in aquarium mini-habitats under microscopes.

Cowichan Bay area has some of the finest restaurants, overlooking the water, specializing in fresh seafood, and fine locally-produced wines. Also found in the village are unique specialty boutiques, artists studios, outdoor eco adventure companies, kayaking, whale watching and charter boat companies. The Cowichan Bay Regatta, held the first weekend in August, is the second biggest regatta on Canada's west coast.

Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park provides camping, picnicking and swimming facilites; or enjoy hiking, mountain biking and wilderness camping at Koksilah River Provincial Park. The Kinsol Trestle, located here, is one of the largest and highest wooden trestle bridges in the world and spans the Koksilah River Valley. There is an old restored church which is now the Auld Kirk Gallery, and the Shawnigan Historical Museum.

Mill Bay is a beautiful seaside community with oceanview parks, scenic drives and hiking trails while the centre of Mill Bay Village is made up of specialty shops, restaurants, coffee shops, gas stations and boutiques.