Things to do in Courtenay, BC. TIPS from a LOCAL.
#rvlife #travel
2022-09-11
Traveling with an RV can be one of the most exciting experiences that a person can have. Being able to travel to different cities and explore new destinations is a thrill that many people seek. One of the most fascinating destinations to explore in Canada is Courtenay, BC. Courtenay is located halfway up Vancouver Island on the eastern coast. This beautiful city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, gorgeous lakes, and breathtaking beaches. In this article, I will share with you some of the best things to do in Courtenay, BC that I discovered on my recent trip while mooch docking with my friends.
Mooch docking is by far one of the best ways to travel with an RV. It allows you to park your RV in a friend's driveway and have access to the comforts of their home. My friends, Henry and Jamie, let us park our RV in their driveway, and we spent a few days exploring the Courtneay area. Being able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Courtneay without having to worry about where to park our RV definitely made our trip more relaxing.
One of the most enjoyable activities we did while in Courtenay was wine tasting at the 40 Knots Winery. This winery is located in the Comox Valley, and our friend Jamie put together a beautiful wine tasting spread for us. During the wine tasting, I learned from a sommelier about how to smell and taste the different wines. The gamut and the pinot noir were some of the lightest reds that we tasted, and the flavors were amazing. It was fascinating to learn how to swirl the wine, sniff it once, make a cross with your nose, and sniff it again to get the full aroma.
Another amazing activity we did in Courtenay was swimming in the pool at our friend's house. It was a hot day, and we enjoyed the refreshing water. However, I have to confess, I had a terrible farmer's tan after being in an RV for so long, but the pool was a perfect way to work on evening out my tan.
One of my most favorite activities was checking out the Nymph Falls Nature Park. The parking lot was full when we arrived, so we knew the park would be busy. We took a stroll along the trails to see the beautiful falls. It was a flat walk and easy to navigate. We even had an opportunity to go down to the water using a little rope. The nymph falls potholes are also an excellent spot to check out if you're in Courtenay. The water flows through the falls and creates small potholes, which are perfect for taking a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Kay Bay Beach is another must-visit destination in Courtenay. The tide goes way out and leaves a long stretch of soft sandy beach. It's an excellent location for paddleboarding and sunbathing. We enjoyed watching the tide come in and slowly cover the sandy beach. A sandy little island emerged and was soon underwater, and it was fascinating to witness how quickly the tide changes.
Lastly, we visited the Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, and it was absolutely stunning. The gardens are located on 24 acres of woodland forest and feature beautiful flowers, trees, and streams. The gardens are well-manicured and serene, which makes them perfect for a relaxing stroll. The different flowers and plants create a fantastic palette of colors, and the sound of the running streams is very tranquil.
In conclusion, Courtenay, BC, has plenty of activities to offer for any travel enthusiast. Exploring different destinations using an RV can be an exciting experience - it provides a comfortable and adventurous means to explore numerous places. During our stay in Courtenay, we had an amazing time wine tasting, swimming, hiking, sunbathing, and enjoying serene gardens. The natural landscapes, beaches, and lakes of the area made our stay remarkable. Anyone planning to visit Courtenay, BC, should add the activities I shared with you to their itinerary. I hope this article will provide you with some useful insights into planning your next adventure in Courtenay, BC.
Traveling with an RV can be a truly unique experience that allows you to embrace the freedom of the open road and immerse yourself in new locations without sacrificing the comforts of home. Whether you’re an experienced RVer or just getting started, Courtenay, BC is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Canada’s west coast. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about RVing in Courtenay and highlight some of the top things to see and do in the area.
Getting Started with RV Travel
Before we dive into things to do in Courtenay, let’s start with some tips to make your RV travel experience as smooth as possible. While RV travel can be a lot of fun, it also requires careful planning and preparation, so you can enjoy your trip with ease. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
1. Choose the right RV for your trip - There are a variety of RV options on the market, from pop-up trailers to Class A motorhomes. Consider factors such as budget, driving experience, and desired amenities when selecting your RV.
2. Plan your route and stops ahead of time - Mapping out your route and making campground reservations ahead of time can help ensure a smooth trip.
3. Pack efficiently - RVs have limited storage space, so be strategic about what you pack and how you pack it. Consider investing in space-saving storage solutions, such as collapsible containers and vacuum-sealed bags.
4. Familiarize yourself with your RV - Make sure you know how to operate all of your RV’s systems, from the electrical and plumbing to the leveling jacks and generator.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to hit the road and explore Courtenay, BC.
Things to Do in Courtenay
Located on Vancouver Island, Courtenay is a charming destination that offers something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to see and do in the area:
1. Visit the Comox Valley Farmers Market - Open every Saturday from 9 am to noon, the Comox Valley Farmers Market is the perfect place to sample local produce, crafts, and baked goods. The market is located at the Native Sons Hall in downtown Courtenay.
2. Explore Strathcona Provincial Park - Located just outside Courtenay, Strathcona Provincial Park is a stunning wilderness area that offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping opportunities. Don’t miss the picturesque Paradise Meadows trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Walk the Courtenay Riverway - This scenic walking and biking trail follows the Courtenay River through the heart of the city, offering spectacular views of the estuary and surrounding mountains. The trail is easily accessible from downtown Courtenay.
4. Sample local wines at 40 Knots Winery - Located just north of Courtenay, 40 Knots Winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines daily from 11 am to 5:30 pm. The winery also hosts events throughout the year, such as live music and food pairings.
5. Explore the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre - Learn about the history of the area, including its Indigenous heritage and the fossil discoveries that have been made in the nearby Comox Valley, at this informative museum.
6. Enjoy the arts scene - Courtenay is known for its vibrant arts scene, with a variety of galleries, workshops, and theatre companies to explore. Check out local events and performances during your stay.
7. Take a scenic drive - Vancouver Island is known for its spectacular coastal scenery, and a drive along the Island Highway is a great way to take it all in. Stop at viewpoints and beach access points along the way for stunning photo opportunities.
8. Relax at a local beach - Vancouver Island is home to some of Canada’s most beautiful beaches, and Courtenay is no exception. Head to nearby Goose Spit Park for a day of sun, sand, and relaxation.
9. Go fishing - With access to both the ocean and numerous rivers and lakes, Courtenay is a great destination for anglers of all levels. Book a guided fishing tour or try your luck from shore.
10. Attend a local festival - Courtenay hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, from the Comox Valley Music Festival to the Filberg Festival. Check the local events calendar before your trip to see what’s happening during your stay.
Conclusion
Traveling with an RV is a unique and rewarding experience that allows you to explore new destinations without sacrificing the comfort and convenience of home. Courtenay, BC is an ideal destination for RVers, offering stunning natural beauty, a vibrant arts scene, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. By following these tips and taking advantage of the many things to do in the area, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip. Happy RVing!