Discover the Best of Cowichan Valley: Extend Your Trip Beyond the Cider Harvest Festival!
The anticipation is building, and were eagerly counting down the days to the Cider Harvest Festival on Sunday, September 24th! As you prepare for a day filled with cider delights, live music, and an incredible atmosphere, we want to remind you of some essential details to ensure you have an unforgettable time.
Festival Reminders:
During the festival, Merridale’s eatery will be open to tantalize your taste buds with mouthwatering treats. However, please keep in mind that seating is limited. If you prefer a quick and delicious option, our food booth offers delectable handheld eats that you can savor while exploring the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
To make the most of your cider tasting experience and skip the lineup, don’t forget to pre- purchase tokens for cider samples ahead of time. Give us a call and we can assist! This ensures a smooth and seamless experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the incredible selection of ciders from passionate cideries across BC.
Saturday Exploration – Places to Shop and Stroll:
Extend your stay beyond the festival on Sunday and indulge in the wonders of Cowichan Valley. If you come on Saturday, begin at the Duncan Farmers Market, where over 100 vendors create a vibrant tapestry of locally grown food, delightful treats, and artisanal products. This market, one of BC’s oldest, provides the perfect setting to sit back, enjoy some live music, and relish the magical ambiance. (Open year-round from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm).
After the market, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Cowichan First Nation as you take a walk through Duncan’s Totem Pole Walk. Follow the yellow footsteps on the sidewalks to discover 44 hand-carved totem poles, each telling a compelling story of great cultural significance.
Adventurous Escapades:
For water enthusiasts, Cowichan Bay Kayaking offers stunning kayak adventures with rental and guided tour options. If you prefer land-based activities, venture to the Cobble Hill Mountain Regional Recreation Area, a picturesque natural haven perfect for hiking, mountain biking trail, running, wildlife spotting, and serene picnics amidst breathtaking views. Take your exploration to new heights at the Malahat Skywalk. Ascend the spiral ramp 250m above sea level and be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of Vancouver Island, including Mt. Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and spanning islands from two countries. The choice to descend at your pace or experience the thrilling Spiral Slide route is yours.
Savor the Bounty of Cowichan Valley:
With all the adventures, you’ll surely work up an appetite! Delight in the culinary treasures that Cowichan Valley has to offer.
Bridgemans, located in Mill Bay, combines scenic waterfront views with delectable cuisine, capturing the essence of coastal living.
For beer enthusiasts, the vibrant and dynamic Craig Street Brew Pub in Duncan promises an unforgettable experience, celebrating the artistry and passion of craft beer culture. And, of course, wine lovers should not miss Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard, Averill Creek Vineyard or Unsworth Vineyards, where you can indulge in world-renowned wines that celebrate the captivating beauty of Cowichan Valley.
Remember to make reservations ahead for guided tastings and unique experiences offered at these exceptional spots.
As you explore and savor the delights of Cowichan Valley, we hope you’ll extend your trip beyond the festival to create cherished memories that last a lifetime. Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle and get ready to Escape the Ordinary in Cowichan Valley! We can’t wait to see you here, ready to celebrate and make the most of this extraordinary experience.
