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The town of Comox (population 12,200) sits on the east coast of south-central Vancouver Island. It revels in a seaside location, a mountainous horizon and the rich farmlands of the nearby Comox Valley. Its varied landscape woos the visitor with beaches & swimming, fishing, ocean kayaking, hiking, biking, diving, golf, a walking tour and driving tour. Yet for all the activity, it gives the impression of a laidback town in a pastoral setting.
Nearby Strathcona Provincial Park has a monopoly on superlatives: It’s the oldest and largest provincial park on Vancouver Island. Its flat-topped Comox Glacier ranks as largest glacier on Vancouver Island. And Della Falls, eight times higher than Niagara, is both the highest falls in Canada and one of the 10 highest in the world.
Pick up a copy of the Town of Comox Heritage Walk brochure from the Comox Valley Visitor Centre and get acquainted with the quiet, friendly rhythm of Comox on this 8-stop walk. Check out the boutiques and spas. Take a gander at the old Lorne Hotel. Built in 1878, it’s the oldest licensed hotel in BC. Stroll Fisherman’s Wharf, or visit the Heritage Hanger at the Comox Air Force Museum to see a genuine WWII Y2K Spitfire aircraft under restoration. Wind up at Goose Spit Goose Regional Park for sunset and maybe a midnight walk under the full moon.
Take a drive and learn what the K’omox First Nations, who flourished here for as much as 9,000 years, meant when they named the area "Land of Plenty". European settlers discovered plenty when they arrived in 1862 to find an excellent natural harbour, abundant fish, extraordinarily fertile land and fresh water. Today the Valley and its 500 farms embrace orchards, nurseries, dairy farms, berry farms and incomparable produce.
Purity of produce prompts haute expectations. A growing number of restaurants showcase local bounty in worldly ways. They anoint superb ingredients with the accents of the global village kitchen. From sumptuous breakfasts to black truffle pizza, Comox can surprise and delight.
Source: Tourism British Columbia
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