The Cowichan
Vancouver Island's Most Sought-After Destination
Just fifty-five minutes north of Victoria and fifty minutes south of Nanaimo, nestled among picturesque mountains and tranquil bays, lies the Cowichan Valley, often called Vancouver Island’s southeastern "front pocket." This charming region is known for its quaint communities and is located within Canada’s only Maritime Mediterranean climate zone, giving it the country's warmest year-round temperatures. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, "The Warm Land" has a mild climate, backstopped by breathtaking landscapes, that is ideal for year-round pursuits. Home to approximately 150,000 residents, the Cowichan Valley is the perfect launch pad for any adventure, be it mild or wild!
Getting to Vista
01
By Land
Arriving at Vista by vehicle is easy! From Nanaimo head south for 50 minutes, or if coming north from Victoria, travel is approximately 55 minutes. Scroll down this page to use the Google map to see our exact location.
02
Local Floatplane Service
Gulf Island Seaplanes offers regularly scheduled float plane service to and from Maple Bay to Vancouver (YVR). They also offer private charter service. ​www.gulfislandseaplanes.com
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03
International Airports
Located 30 minutes from Vista is the Nanaimo Airport (YCD) with service to the country's major air hubs and international flights.
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Victoria airport (YYJ) is 90 minutes away and also services all major air hubs and provides international flights.
04
By Sea
The Cowichan Valley has excellent connections to mainland British Columbia and Washington State through vehicle and passenger ferries. BC Ferries Horsehoe Bay (Nanaimo) terminal is 55 minutes north, and their Duke Point (Nanaimo) terminal is 30 minutes north. Swartz Bay (Victoria) terminal is 1.3 hours south. The Black Ball Ferry and Victoria Clipper (passenger only) offer service directly to Washington State from their terminals in downtown Victoria.
