May 25, 2010 | Tips from Us >
Ucluelet, Hiking
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I absolutely love
Ucluelet - it's got the same charm but more character than Tofino and plenty of stunning hikes and beaches to explore. One of the best things to do in "Ukee" (besides having a "Ukee dog" and going to the Aquarium which is one of the best tiny tin-hut aquariums on the planet) is taking in the amazing walks along the
Wild Pacific Trail.
A great, one-hour easy hike is the Lighthouse Loop, which takes wanderers through forests and along amazing rocky coastline for about 2.4km. Perfect to watch waves crashing, birds soaring above or even deer crossing the paths. It's one of my fave things to do in BC and didn't disappoint when I was there in mid-May.
You can also pick up the Wild Pacific Trail from near the
Black Rock Ocean Front Resort. Black Rock is a new, stunning, modern hotel resort perched atop amazing cliffs and near shell- and driftwood-covered beaches. Sneak out through the side door of their excellent restaurant Fetch and you'll join up with another 3km of trails that run from Big and Brown Beaches.
Had to say I was blown away by Black Rock. The rooms face the ocean and if you're lucky enough to do some storm watching (a great way to enjoy a blustery day and we had a doozy while we were there - but then sunshine the next day!), you'll be able to see amazing waves and even a few cheeky otters. I saw four munching on clams from my balcony!
We were there during a power outage (as a result of the storm) and it was actually so much fun - the hotel gave us flashlights and we dined by candlelight. Amazing views, amazing rooms, amazing access to the Wild Pacific Trail. Such a highlight of our recent Vancouver Island roadtrip - Ukee is a real gem.
May 17, 2010 | Tips from Us >
Tofino, Whale Watching
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A day out on the water with Jamie's Whalewatching means more than whales, though they are undoubtedly the star attraction. We certainly saw a few lovely grey whales spouting and showing off from aboard our covered 65-foot cruiser (nice and warm, and there was coffee, tea and hot chocolate!). The greys were feeding near Tofino's Long Beach, which the on-board Jamie's staff explained was a good spot these days (mid-May).
But we also saw eagles, some super-speedy black harbour porpoises, a lone harbour seal and dozens of barking Steller sea lions on our three-hour trip.
And the best bit? Marine animals don't really care if it's raining (and it was for us) - so you're pretty much guaranteed some good sightings with Jamie's no matter what! A great day out on the Tofino waters...
May 15, 2010 | Tips from Us >
Parksville, Accommodation
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Been meaning to stay at Parksville's in-the-woods/on-the-beach lovely resort, Tigh-Na-Mara for a while, and finally had a chance during our recent roadtrip across Vancouver Island. Was fab - our ocean-view sat practically right on the ocean overlooking the amazing Rathtrevor Beach. When the tide is out on Rathtrevor, there's a sand beach covered in blacky-purple sand-dollars, clams and seaweed that goes on for almost literally, MILES. (I know, I walked out until I hit surf and it took about 45 minutes).
After our relaxing beach walk, we met up with friends and had a drink and pub food at TNM's bar, the Copper Room. But the best bit? Why not relax even more after a relaxing day? We did! We headed to the Grotto Spa to sit in the spa's mineral pool and jacuzzi. Great way to unwind by the ocean. (Not to mention that just past Parksville is the quaint little town of Qualicum Beach - which is also worth a visit). A great day out in Oceanside.