It’s almost February and love is in the air! Here you will find a few ideas to treat your special someone to an unforgettable date; whether it be a fun adventure, live-music, tasty treats, or a romantic dinner, you’ll be sure to find something to impress your plus-one in Cowichan!
Raise your heart rate on a Cowichan Trail
Find out what makes Cowichan the heart of the West Coast by trekking the Heart Lake Loop for spectacular views of Ladysmith, the Gulf Island and Mount Baker. Heart Lake is the perfect place to cuddle up on the shore and sip on a cup of coffee with your special someone.
For something more relaxed, go chasing waterfalls and embark on a nature walk through the rainforest in Stocking Creek Park near Chemainus. This short walk rewards you with great views of the creek and falls.
If it’s a Cowichan view-scape you’re chasing, Mt. Tzouhalem offers some of the best. It is a short but challenging hike, where on a clear day you can see for miles and get a sense of the sheer size, scope and beauty of this stunning region.
Share some Cowichan fare
No Cowichan date is complete without a taste of our local fare. With several hundred farms in the region, our restaurants, bistros and cafés are truly farm-to-table.
Looking to book Valentine’s Day dinner?
Merridale Cidery & Distillery is offering a special Valentine’s Day Menu at 6:00pm on February 14th. Enjoy a glass of cider, appetizer to share, your choice of an entrée, and a trio of desserts for sharing, all for only $59 per person. Embrace romance at Merridale and celebrate those you love.
Love will be in the air at the Alpina Restaurant at Villa Eyrie Resort as they serve up an unforgettable 3-course dining experience priced at $229 for two. View the menu here and dine at one of the most romantic restaurants in Canada.
The Satellite Bar & Grille at Arbutus Ridge Golf Club is offering a 3-course dinner the evening of February 14th for $65 per person. Dinner also includes Prosecco for two! View the menu here and make your reservation online or by phone.
Visit The Masthead Restaurant for a romantic Valentine’s day dinner by the waterfront on February 14th. Their culinary team has crafted a special 3-course Valentine’s menu for $89 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (250) 748-3714.
Averill Creek Vineyard is featuring Alpine Cheese Fondue served with sourdough baguette, apple, and cornichons. This is great for sharing between 2-4 guests (priced at $30). Reservations are required and can be made by phone at (250) 709-9986. Take in the picturesque views with your loved ones.
Savour something sweet with your sweetheart
There is no better way to get to know someone than by sitting down to a sweet something at one of Cowichan’s many quaint bakeries. If you haven’t yet visited True Grain Organic Craft Bakery, make this Old World-inspired bakery a must-see on your trip out to Cowichan Bay.
In Chemainus, warm up from a wander through the historical murals with a coffee and a homemade snack from Owl’s Nest Bakery & Bistro.
No gluten? No problem! Further north in Ladysmith visit the Wild Poppy Bistro. This charming café on First Avenue makes gluten and peanut-free living delicious.
Blue Grouse Estate Winery is offering a Cowichan Wine & Chocolate Pairing throughout the months of January and February. This experience includes a flight of 5 wines accompanied by 5 local chocolates from Sirene for $25 per person or $15 for fan club members.
Purchase some beautiful Cowichan made artisan chocolates to gift to your sweetheart at Chocolate Pearl, Shawnigan House Chocolate + Coffee, Rembrandt’s Chocolates, Sea Salt Chocolates, or Cocoa Love.
Slow down in the spa
If you and your partner are looking to zen out, a visit to a Cowichan spa is a must. Unwind mountainside with views of the Saanich Inlet at the Tuscan Spa at the Villa Eyrie, offering a Couples Hot Stone Massage or Couples Essential Oils Massage. Settle in at the Cowichan Bay Spa for an oceanside retreat you won’t soon forget.
Settle in for a pint
Wine, spirits, cider and tea aren’t the only thing on the Cowichan beverage list. If hops are more your thing, grab a beer at one of Cowichan’s friendly and community-minded craft breweries – Small Block Brewing, Red Arrow Brewing Co, Craig Street Brew Pub, and Bayside Brewing.
Plan a romantic getaway
There are endless possibilities when it comes to a romantic getaway to Cowichan – whether you’re taking it easy or planning a high-velocity trip, you and your partner have plenty to work with. Villa Eyrie Resort is event offering a special arrangements for a picture-perfect balloon decor setup to surprise your Valentine. Start planning your romantic getaway to Cowichan now by finding places to stay!
