There's no better way to experience the delicious variety of culinary experiences in the Cowichan Valley than by touring.
Enjoy the valley's lush agricultural landscape while visiting exceptional organic farms, master cheesemakers and wonderful wineries along the way.
Stop at farmers' markets and roadside stands to buy locally-made jams and artisanal cheeses as well as a luscious variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs.
Self-drive tours
Highway signs denote countless gourmet attractions, making it easy to take a self-guided tour of the region's wineries, farms, orchards and markets. Enjoy the scenery en route, which includes the spectacular - mountain and ocean views - as well as the unique - buffalo grazing in the Cowichan Valley.
Guided tours
If you'd rather sit back and leave the driving to others, a number of companies offer set tours (or can customize a tour to reflect your personal interests). These include:
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Travel With Taste and Crush Wine Tours on Vancouver Island. Day tours include visits to local farms, cheese artisans and wineries.
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Island Gourmet Safaris offers a day trip on Salt Spring Island that focuses on food, wine and art.
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The Aerie Resort offers a guided autumn mushroom hunt followed by a lesson on mushroom preparation, with a tasting presided over by the resort's executive chef.
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Seaflora Wild Organic Seaweed Skincare offers a unique seaweed tour. Learn about edible and wearable seaweed with the "Seaweed Lady." Follow up with a seaweed spa treatment and, later, a gourmet dinner featuring seaweed at the legendary Sooke Harbour House.