Chilliwack is our stomping grounds. Surrounded by towering mountains, thundering rivers, and vast fields, I know we’re biased, but really, what more could you want!? But… a few times a year we emerge from the trees and the mountains, brush off our flannel and venture out a little farther than usual. And in a place like BC, you don’t have to go far to get somewhere magical. Our Getaway Series features some of our favourite spots to explore outside of the Fraser Valley.
Hornby Island is a Northern Gulf Island located off the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, it takes three ferries and the better part of the day to get there from Chilliwack, but TRUST US, it’s worth it. White sandy beaches, aqua-blue coloured sea (YES in BC - we have photos to prove it 😉), local artisan shops littering the winding streets and backroad honour boxes to pick up freshly cut flowers, there’s truly nothing like it. This eclectic island is home to only 1000 residents (when we were last there, there were signs for a concert and the location read “Deryll and Susan’s house”, that kind of says it all) but in the Summer, that nearly quadruples in size.
We’ve come to adore this little piece of heaven, escaping there once a Summer when we can, so we’ve put together a list of our favourite spots to explore. Of course, like any other adventure, step one is to pick up some tasty brews. If you didn’t have a chance to pick some up in our tasting room in Chilliwack before you hit the road, check out our store locator to find a liquor store that carries Old Yale en route. Now that we’ve got the beer covered (phew!), we can move on to what adventures you’re takin’ it on while you’re on the island.
Tribune Bay
Coined “Hawaii of the North”, Tribune Bay does not disappoint. Tribune is known for its white sandy beaches and aqua-blue coloured water. With some of the warmest saltwater swimming in BC you absolutely cannot pass up a day lounging and beachcombing here.
Helliwell Provincial Park
This 5km oceanside loop trail transports you across the country and makes you feel as if you’re on the East coast of Canada. As you walk along the oceanside bluffs you can take in spectacular views of marine life, the Strait of Georgia and the Coast Mountains.
Grassy Point
Grassy Point is our go-to spot for a game of Bocci. Grab some brews and some pals and head to these rolling hills, if you catch it at the right time you might even get to take in the sunset while enjoying a fire on the beach.
Farmers Market
The motto of Hornby Island Farmers’ Market says it all, “Make it, Bake it, Grow it”. Here you can get a variety of Hornby Island’s finest from produce to hand made jewellery. Remember, Hornby is home to a number of talented artisans, so you’ll find some seriously cool stuff here!
Mount Geoffrey Escarpment Provincial Park
If you want to get in some hiking or mountain biking while you’re on Hornby, you have to hit up Mount Geoffrey. With dozens of trails varying in difficulty, it has something for everyone.
Can’t wait to see you out there exploring, friends!