Words by Jessica Wood
British Columbians celebrate Family Day every third Monday in February, which means Family Day long weekend is just around the corner! Is your family looking for something new and exciting to do this long weekend? Here are some activities that you, your family, and your friends can experience in Cowichan this long weekend.
Explore Cowichan Bay’s Historic Waterfront
Cowichan Bay is a waterfront community that is famous for its colourful floating homes, unique shops and beautiful piers. Start off this day trip with a walk along the water, there’s a good chance your family will see some amazing sea life. Stop in at True Grain Bakery for a cookie or the Udder Guys Ice Cream store and grab a cone before wandering through the marina.
From delicious local cuisine to unbeatable waterfront views and shopping for the whole family, this is a must-visit community this Family Day.
Warm Up With Local Treats
If you’re an early riser, or just need a mid-day pick-me-up this long weekend, check out Drumroaster Coffee in Cobble Hill. With a wide variety of coffee, lattes, teas and pastries, everyone in your family is sure to find something to excite their taste buds.
Looking to treat your family or friends to a nice lunch? Pizzeria Prima Strada in Cobble Hill has a mouthwatering selection of wood-fired pizza. This must-taste pizza can be paired with your choice of craft beer, local cider or a delicious house-made Blueberry Basil Soda (with many more options on the menu). For dessert, be sure to check out their house-made gelato and sorbet.
Get Outside
Whether you’re looking for a spot to hike, a place to picnic, or a little bit of both, Cowichan has lots of options. For a sweat-breaking hike, be sure to check out Mount Tzouhalem’s viewpoint trail which overlooks our beautiful Cowichan Valley. Looking for a light walk? The Chemainus Lake Loop is just a casual 2.5 km trail that’s perfect for a family outing. For a light walk filled with history and culture, check out the Duncan Totem Tour, which can be taken by following the yellow-painted feet on the town’s sidewalks. For something a little longer, opt for a hike to Stocking Creek Waterfall near Ladysmith!
Visit the Farmers’ Market
If you’re planning a picnic, consider heading to the Duncan Farmers Market on Saturday morning from 10am – 2pm. Here, you’ll be able to find local fruits and vegetables, honey, cheeses, breads, fresh pastries and so much more to fill your picnic basket with local delicacies! Your family picnic will be complete with one of Cowichan’s scenic picnic benches, located at Bright Angel Park, Central Park, and the historic Kinsol Trestle, just to name a few!
Stop By A Gallery
Cowichan also has many art galleries that will allow you and your loved ones to get in the artistic mood this long weekend. The Judy Hill Gallery in Duncan and Arthur Vickers Gallery in Cowichan Bay are a few to consider.
Sip & Savour the Best Of Cowichan
For families with adult children, Cowichan is overflowing with local breweries, wineries, distilleries and cideries. Merridale Cider & Distillery is an ideal one-stop shop for a casual walk through the orchard, cider tastings, and the perfect lunch. Or visit Sawmill Taphouse in Chemainus to try a little bit of everything! With several local beers on tap and a great selection of farm-to-table dishes, there’s something for everyone.
