Cowichan Valley

The Cowichan Valley is home to the communities of Duncan, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Cowichan Bay, Mill Bay, Cobble Hill , Shawnigan Lake and Lake Cowichan.

Duncan is the commercial hub in the valley with a good selection of services and big box stores. It is the community of Totem Poles and First Nation culture. Northeast of Duncan, in the village of Crofton, is the BC Ferry service to Saltspring Island.

Cowichan Bay is a marine destination with a full service marina. Located in the village are many boating and sailing services plus some marine tours, restaurants and specialty shops.

Mill Bay is an oceanfront community with a BC Ferry transportation link connecting Mill Bay with Brentwood Bay. There is a village centre with stores and restaurants.

Ladysmith is a waterfront community with a fantastic oceanfront park. First Ave (main street) is lined with historic buildings, flower gardens and artifacts on almost every corner.

The marine community of Chemainus is home to the Thetis Island Ferry, Chemainus Murals and Chemainus Theatre. The village is best known for its world famous murals. There is a self guided walking tour available for viewing the murals. On main street there are many small shops, gift stores and restaurants.

Lake Cowichan is a recreational lake community. The village enjoys many of the services important to travelers. Many visit the lake community to enjoy water skiing, jet boating, canoeing and camping. On the opposite side of the lake is the village of Youbou.

Many of the wineries in the Cowichan Valley operate in Cobble Hill. The region is surrounded by large orchards, vineyards and farm fields. Down the road is the recreation destination of Shawnigan lake. The lake is popular for swimming, water skiing, boating, canoeing and jet skiing.

The fertile Cowichan Valley is home to Vancouver Island's biggest collection of wineries and vineyards. The wilderness landscape in the valley is popular for mountain biking, golfing, hiking and camping. Marine activities enjoyed in the region include boating, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, water skiing, wildlife watching and swimming.