March 11, 2007 | Tips from Travellers >
Sooke, Hiking
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The West Coast Trail is a 75 km trek through old growth forest and along the sea shore. Created a hundred years ago as a rescue route for shipwreck survivors, it now offers hikers a close connection with the biology and terrain of Canada's rugged west coast.
Most overnight hiking trips range from five to eight days with campsites dotted along the trail map. Cable cars, ladders, bridges and boardwalk make the trek a reasonably straight forward hike for the fit.
Highlights include hiking on sea shelf, old growth forests like the Carmanah and Walbran, meeting First Nations interpreters and ferry operators (Nitinat Narrows), wildlife, light houses and countless stunning views of the Pacific.
Begin in either Port Renfrew or Bamfield. I recommend starting in Port Renfrew and getting the more difficult sections out of the way first.
March 06, 2007 | Tips from Travellers >
Sooke, Hiking
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Last spring our family realized a dream of visiting and exploring Vancouver Island. One day we did some exploring on the southwestern part of the island. We stopped at beaches and bays along the way, did some hiking and took in some spectacular views of the ocean and coastal forest.
We were ready for some rest and relaxation, and stopped at an unassuming place called "Point No Point".
From the road it looks like a small resort built in the 50's with a curious little restaurant. We had a very interesting visit with the host, and of course, stayed for a delightful lunch. After hearing about our afternoon quest to continue exploring, the host kindly invited us to spend some time touring their private beaches--usually reserved for resort guests. What a thrill! We spent the entire afternoon exploring the beaches, trails, forest, and tidepools, collecting shells, and crossing cliff side bridges! When we returned, the host suggested we stay for a meal. We needed very little convincing!
The local seafood dishes were so outstanding, we consider that dinner to have been the best we have ever had! Everyone is treated so well at "Point No Point", including the resident cat, who greeted us as we were leaving. He apparently just showed up and now lives there. His coat is so shiny, dark and healthy, it looks like seal fur; an excellent compliment to the restaurant.
We can't wait to return to "Point No Point"!