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Located in southern Vancouver Island, Cowichan is a small but vibrant coastal community. Set your watch to island time and enjoy the relaxing experiences that Cowichan offers. Visit farms, museums, and walk, bike, hike or horseback ride along the historic Kinsol Trestle, one of the tallest free-standing rail trestles in the world! Get a taste for Cowichan at local cafes, restaurants, cideries, and the Duncan Farmers’ Market on the Cowichan Passport Tour. Keep reading to discover the best thing to Taste and Do in Cowichan.
Don’t forget to download the BC Farmers’ Market Trail app and start exploring this tour yourself! You’ll earn points for every stop you check-in at, level up, and earn rewards
The first stop on the Cowichan Passport Tour brings you to the Duncan Farmers’ Market. This market runs year-round, rain or shine, bringing fresh locally sourced goods to the community all year long. Located behind Duncan City Hall at City Square along Ingram Street, the Duncan Farmers’ Market draws out a big crowd, with up to 110 vendors in attendance! Here you can meet the Cowichan Valley’s most popular farmers, food producers, and artisans, and stock up on organic produce, sustainable seafood, local meats, handmade preserves, artisanal wine and liquors, and more.
At this popular market you can also enjoy live entertainment from a rotating selection of local musicians, and grab hot food and drinks to enjoy while you shop.
True Grain
Be sure to stop by True Grain Bakery when you’re visiting the Cowichan Valley. They use organic and fresh-milled flour grown right here in BC. They also don’t add any preservatives and are a hyper-local business. Try their delicious freshly baked breads and pastries, or stock up on their other items like pasta, baking ingredients, and granola.
Alderlea Farm and Cafe
Alderlea Farm is a multi-generational, biodynamic family farm located in Glenora near Duncan. The farm-to-table restaurant at Alderlea Farm is the real show-stopper. Here they serve thoughtfully crafted and sustainable dishes using ingredients grown right on the farm. Alderlea Farm invites you to taste the difference that farm-to-table dining can make. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal in the restaurant or on the large outdoor patio overlooking the farm. They also offer farm-stays!
Yellow Point Farms
Yellow Point Farms is a charming family-owned farm known for its sustainable farming practices and high-quality produce. Visitors can explore the scenic farm, engage in a variety of activities like interactive farm tours, and meet the animals at the petting farm. Or, pay a visit to their farm store to stock up on fresh fruits and veggies, eggs, local meat and more.
Merridale Cidery & Distillery
Merridale Cidery & Distillery is a must-visit for cider and spirit lovers. They craft delicious ciders and spirits, served alongside tasty farm-to-table dishes in a cozy bistro. They also offer orchard-to-glass tasting experiences and tours, distillery tours and tastings, and special events like live music nights and harvest festivals.
Cowichan Bay Seaside Village
Explore the Cowichan Bay Seaside Village. This community is known for its scenic beauty and relaxed vibe. Check out the local boutiques, marinas and restaurants nestled along the waterfront, and enjoy a range of activities like kayaking tours, whale-watching adventures and more!
Kinsol Trestle Trail
The Kinsol Trestle Trail is a historic landmark in the Cowichan Valley. One of the tallest free-standing rail trestles in the world, the Kinsol Trestle is a must-see. You can hike, cycle and even horseback ride on this iconic trail as you take in the scenic views of the Cowichan region.
Hand of Man Museum
Natural history buffs should definitely check out the Hand of Man Museum in Maple Bay. The Hand of Man is a museum of natural history, cultural arts and conservation, and showcases a collection of over 1000 artifacts, including a 16-foot woolly mammoth! Enjoy their self-guided interactive tours.
Pacific Northwest Raptors
Pacific Northwest Raptors is an exciting destination dedicated to the conservation and education of birds of prey. Visitors can get up close with eagles, and other raptors through interactive demonstrations and educational tours. From flying demonstrations to summer camps and falconry courses, there are diverse opportunities to connect with these majestic creatures.
Duncan Totem Tour Walk
Duncan is home to a tapestry of dozens of stunning totem poles. Explore the rich heritage of the Cowichan Valley and connect with the artistry and symbolism of Indigenous carvers. Download the Totem Tour Walking Map at Duncan.ca.
Discover the unique places to stay in Cowichan. You can find everything from high-end hotels, cozy bed & breakfasts, yurts, lodges and more! Book your stay at TourismCowichan.com.
Get out there and enjoy the Cowichan Passport Tour! Download the BC Farmers’ Market Trail App, and earn points and rewards when you check in at farmers’ markets across the province!