Wandering off the Island Highway always seems a good idea to me. Slower, prettier, and frequently some interesting points of interest or restaurants offering up deliciousness. Just south of Duncan is the village of Cowichan Bay. If you have not visited lately it is absolutely worthy of a visit.

Basically Cow Bay (as the locals call it) is a one street town with all the businesses on the water side of the road. Behind the various shops are a string of marinas making it a popular overnight spot for boaters. We have done just that and availed ourselves of the fuel dock too. Our last ever fill up of two of four tanks was only $960. Yikes.

Food is a definite feature in Cowichan Bay so you will want to arrive when you are hungry. Whether it is fine dining at the MASTHEAD, Fish & Chips at the ROCK COD CAFE or a pub lunch at the COW BAY PUB, you will find something edible to satisfy your taste buds here.

TRUE GRAIN BREAD is a must visit as they turn out wonderful baked goods and you’ll want to take some home. Nearby is HILARY’S CHEESE COMPANY where you can enjoy a local cheese and wine tasting! That sounds nearly perfect. Or you may sit down and order one of their outstanding quiches. We can recommend them.

There are a couple of coffee joints too if you are craving that no fat latte. Drop into GET PHIL’D UP.  Maybe you arrive on a sunny afternoon and ice cream is your desire. Try THE ORIGINAL UDDER GUYS ICE CREAM. They make their own every day right in Cowichan Bay.

Now that you are fed and watered pay a visit to the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre. It’s is a really well done Museum in a building that hangs out over the bay. Included is a collection of vintage outboard motors. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9-4. I expect they have longer openings during the summer.

Before departing take a stroll down the Cowichan Bay Fisheman’s Dock. Great views of the bay and good boat watching too.

So, get off the main roads and enjoy some of the small town delights.

Just saying…