Escapees May June 2015 Demo

Searching for crab on the Vancouver Island coastline.

Ferries from Horseshoe Bay Park.

couver Island

far-away destinations painted on the sides of the visiting luxury yachts and sailboats tied up here. Riding the little passenger ferry across the harbor for a tasty feast of fresh seafood at the Dingy Dock Pub on Protection Island is a treat. It’s all about the outdoors on Van- couver Island, and Nanaimo’s walking and cycling trails throughout the city

the viewpoints along the way create some memorable photo opportunities. The fresh local produce found in the farmers’ markets, glass-blowing artisans and the perfect greens on the golf courses along the way will defi- nitely entice you off the highway. Sample the latest vintage from one of the many wineries found on the Saanich Peninsula and along the wine route towards the Cowichan area. Tour one of the farm wineries and learn more about the growing of grapes and winemaking before you reach the home of the murals, Chemainus. Chemainus (Sha-main-us) Chemainus is north of Victoria along the Trans Canada Highway (Highway 1), and the drive takes approximate- ly one-and-a-half hours. Walking is the best way to see everything in the friendly seaside village of Chemainus. Get out of your vehicle and let the painted footsteps guide you on a journey through time as you tour the historical murals covering many of the downtown buildings. Or hop on a horse-drawn trolley or carriage and watch as the stories of the village’s history and heritage of forestry, fishing and mining unfold in front of you.

Nanaimo (Nan-i-mo) Further north, about a half-hour from Chemainus, is Nanaimo, where its scenic harbor is a continuous bustle of activity. Pedestrians enjoy strolling along the waterfront promenade over- looking the harbor where commercial fishing boats, kayakers and canoeists share the waters with the float planes landing and departing regularly. Walk along the wooden docks and read the

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