Northern Vancouver
Island Ale Trail
Vancouver Island is a big place, home to diverse landscapes and an assortment of excellent craft breweries in the communities of the Comox Valley, Campbell River and Port McNeil.
This ale trail encompasses the upper portion of Vancouver Island, running from the Comox Valley all the way up to Port Hardy at the top.
Discover the Comox Valley including Cumberland and Courtenay, an agricultural paradise with several breweries that cater to their local crowds.
Take a side trip over to the white sand beaches of Hornby Island, and discover an island paradise complete with craft beer.
Continuing north, Campbell River is a haven for boat-and-fishing enthusiasts.
From there it’s a two-hour drive up to Port McNeill near the top of the Island, and beyond to the island’s most remote pub.
Be sure to check out the Central Vancouver Island Ale Trail and the Pacific Rim Ale Trail.
Session Taproom + Kitchen in Campbell River (photo: Ryan Price)
Goose Spit Park in Comox, BC
Port McNeill, BC (Photo: Colby Mahood)
Hornby Island Brewing on Hornby Island, BC (photo: provided)
Ken Forde Beach in Campbell River, BC (photo: Destination Campbell River)
Cumberland Brewing Company in Cumberland, BC
RAD Brewing in Comox, BC
Cumberland Brewing Company in Cumberland, BC
Campbell River, BC
Devil's Bath Brewing in Port McNeill, BC (photo: Vancouver Island North Tourism)
Paradise Meadows at Mount Washington (photo: Craft Beer Tourist)
Beach Fire Brewing in Campbell River, BC
Ace Brewing Company in Courtenay, BC
Land & Sea Brewing in Comox, BC
Paradise Meadows in Strathcona Provincial Park, Comox Valley, BC
Telegraph Cove Resort in Telegraph Cove, BC (photo: Monica Frost)
Scarlet Ibis Pub in Holberg, BC (photo: Taylor Burk)
Ace Brewing Company in Courtenay, BC
Ferry to Denman and Hornby Islands
Beach Fire Brewing in Campbell River, BC
Land & Sea Brewing in Comox, BC
Cumberland Brewing Company in Cumberland, BC (photo: Experience Comox Valley)
Rober V. Oslter Park in Campbell River, BC (photo: Destination Campbell River)
Gladstone Brewing Company in Courtenay, BC
Devil's Bath cenote near Port McNeill, BC (photo: Colby Mahood)
Scarlet Ibis Pub in Holberg, BC (photo: Vancouver Island North Tourism)
RAD Brewing in Comox, BC
Port Hardy, BC (photo: Monica Frost)
Devil's Bath Brewing in Port McNeill (photo: Vancouver Island North Tourism)
Ace Brewing Company in Courtenay, BC
Elk Falls Provincial Park, near Campbell River, BC
Beach Fire Brewing in Campbell River, BC
Gladstone Brewing in Courtenay, BC
Land & Sea Brewing in Comox, BC (photo: Tamara Vidito)
Hornby Island Brewing on Hornby Island, BC
RAD Brewing in Comox, BC
Hornby Island, BC
Hornby Island Brewing on Hornby Island, BC
Day 1
Comox Valley
Travel Info
From the mainland, travel to Vancouver Island on BC Ferries. From Vancouver, take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo; or, from Tsawwassen to Duke Point.
From the Sunshine Coast, travel to Comox on BC Ferries from Powell River.
Alternatively, you can walk onto the new Hullo Ferries fast ferry from Downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo.
Drive from Nanaimo, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Drive from Victoria, approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.
Consider taking the Old Island Highway for scenic ocean views.
Travel by air to the Comox Valley Airport with convenient year-round direct flight routes from Vancouver, Kelowna, Calgary or Edmonton.
Home of perfectly overstuffed breakfasts, bustling lunches and inspired dinners. It’s where friends and family share laughs, colleagues share ideas, and the entire community gathers to share our passion for great food.
Visit this destination brewery in the beautiful and historic small town of Cumberland. Since opening late in 2014 in a small storefront on the town’s main street, Cumberland Brewing has had little trouble selling virtually every drop of its beer right where it is brewed, either by the glass in the cozy tasting room or sun-soaked patio behind the brewery or in takeaway growlers.
The newest microbrewery to open in Courtenay celebrates the history of the Canadian Air Force through its vintage aviation theme.
Downtown Courtenay is home to this popular craft brewery with an in-house burger bar. Voted 'Brewery of the Year' in 2022 at the BC Beer Awards.
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Be sure to stop in at the Comox Valley Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
This region is home to marine and outdoor adventures, the perfect accompaniment to your next brewery tour! Discover the Emerald Sea and what lies below with some of the world’s best cold water activities. Check out Pacific Pro Drive for snorkeling, marine tours, dive charters, rebreathers, & SCUBA training.
The Island’s only ski and snowboard resort destination, extensive mountain biking plus pristine beach and ocean adventures await.
Don’t miss out on festivals like the Filberg Festival or pick up fresh, local produce at the popular year-round Comox Valley Farmers’ Market.
Day 2
Courtenay + Comox
Start your day with strong coffee and friendly service at this small but mighty breakfast spot.
This picturesque sand spit is fed by the Willemar Bluffs that, with Gartley Point, create the Comox Harbour. Take in the views from south, east and west—all year round.
A place to gather to enjoy craft beer and community — stop here to share a lunch platter. There's something for everyone, including delicious gluten-friendly options.
Originally New Tradition Brewing, Rad Brewing was purchased by the owners of the Church St Taphouse. Proudly serving local craft beer in their community-based tasting room, with a focus on high-quality beer, excellent service, & fresh food.
Experience the culinary fusion at Dockside, where the team brings unique twists to West Coast flavours. Enjoy a menu of small and large plates perfect for sharing. Dockside is a family friendly establishment with views overlooking the ocean and Beaufort Mountains.
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For another great dining experience, check out Church St. Taphouse – one of The Comox Valley’s best taphouses proudly serving craft beer and local food.
Day 3
Hornby Island
Travel Info
Drive approximately 30 minutes south to Buckley Bay, and take a short ferry from Buckley Bay to Denman Island, and then on to Hornby Island.
Forage Farm and Kitchen offers a unique, farm-to-table dining experience. With a local, family-run farm, Forage designs their menu around the ebb-and-flow of Hornby’s seasons, with a focus on organically grown fruit, veggies, berries, edible flowers and more. Located in the Ringside, Forage also offers vibrant cocktails and patio seating.
Explore the many trails that criss-cross the island on foot on mountain bike.
The mountain bike trails on Hornby Island have history. Created over thirty years ago by a dedicated group of mountain bike enthusiasts, the trails are clearly marked, boast delightfully quirky names, and cater to cyclists and hikers of all abilities, from beginner to expert.
If you prefer to explore at a more leisurely pace, Hornby’s hiking trails range from easy to challenging and bring hikers through a variety of terrain, from grassy plains overlooking the ocean, to rainforest-like stands of stately cedars, to vistas of arbutus trees clinging to a cliff.
A family tradition on Hornby Island since 1976 and voted 3rd Best Pizzeria in Canada 2023. The second generation is now carrying on the family tradition of making delicious Pizza, as well as Bread, Croissants, Bagels, Brownies, Butter Tarts, Cup Cakes, Cookies, Sweets, Treats, Savories, Granola, and more, including Gluten Free and Vegan. Their products are made with the finest ingredients available including organic fruits and vegetables grown locally as much as possible with healthy crust and toppings.
Hornby Island is home to 60 professional artists. Check out the Hornby Arts Map to plan your visit to a local gallery or studio, and get inspired by the creations of painters, musicians, photographers, potters, sculptors, and wood and metal workers. Learn about their artistic practice, schedule a studio visit, and find out where you can experience or purchase their work.
Hornby Island Brewing Company opened late August 2022 and the tasting room doors opened shortly after at the beginning of September 2022. In addition to providing sustainably-produced beer with a focus on the environment in the small-footprint facility, there is a strong focus on local ingredients, and producing small-batch artisan beers.
Inspired by the bounty that surrounds us, the Breeze Restaurant and Lounge strives to produce locally sourced and seasonally curated comfort food and craft cocktails. Enjoy a taste of Hornby, taking in the spectacular views of the Salish Sea from the large wrap-around patio or cozying up to the beautiful wood-burning fireplace in the oceanfront dining room.
Interested in camping, glamping, or renting a room or cabin? Begin your trip planning by browsing accommodation options.
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Spring & Summer Visits
Seasonal highlights include incredible birdwatching and mountain biking in the spring, while Hornby’s sandy beaches, markets, and concerts draw visitors and residents in the summer. Did you know that one of Hornby’s beaches has earned the nickname “Little Hawaii”? Tribune Bay Provincial Park is considered one of the warmest saltwater swimming areas in the province, and the white sand beaches make it one of the most scenic as well.
Fall + Winter Visits
On Hornby, the fall and winter provide a quieter time for visitors and locals. Embrace the slower pace by hiking through lush green forests, observing wintering waterfowl and sea lions on the coast, and relaxing in a cozy cabin.
NOTE: many of Hornby Island’s restaurants and businesses close seasonally – be sure to check ahead to confirm winter hours and closures to avoid disappointment.
Day 4
Campbell River
Travel Info
Take a return ferry to Buckley Bay, and drive to Campbell River, approximately 40 minutes.
Indulge in some authentic, European-style pastries right downtown on Shopper’s Row. These mouthwatering treats come in a wide variety to satisfy any taste. Paired with an artisanal coffee or locally blended tea, starting your day off at Freyja will set the stage for an awesome day of exploring in Campbell River.
With the strong currents and narrow passages of the Discovery Islands, the waters surrounding Campbell River are nutrient rich and teeming with life. Orca, Humpback Whales, Bears, Eagles, Sea Lions, Pacific Dolphins, Salmon, Octopus and many other majestic creatures call this region home. There is a full roster of tour operators more than happy to take you out on the water to get a closer (but not too close) look at these creatures in their natural habitats. With half-day, full-day and sunset tours, there’s something to suit everyone.
Want to learn more about how Campbell River came to be? The Museum at Campbell River or the Campbell River Maritime Heritage Centre both offer great views into the past; both from an Indigenous and Colonial perspective. More into art and literature? The Campbell River Art Gallery curates artwork from talented artists with many local Indigenous artists often appearing in the gallery. Or make a stop at the iconic Haig-Brown Heritage House, whose beautiful gardens and tranquil setting has been a muse for many a talented author.
Since 2019, Session Taproom + Kitchen has provided a casual and beautifully designed space for guests to enjoy locally sourced food and beverage.
With 12 rotating taps for craft beer and cider, a full cocktail and wine list, and a kitchen focussed on keeping the menu fresh and exciting, there will always be something new to try when you come in.
Located on the grounds of the Naturally Pacific Resort, Velocity Driving Range offers an immersive virtual golf experience for beginners to seasoned golfers. Whether you want to play games like Go Fish or tee off virtually at St. Andrew's old course, with Toptracer technology you can do it all. When it’s not your turn to shoot, sit back and relax at your private bay’s comfortable lounge seating and enjoy full-service food, pints, cocktails and other treats.
With award-winning beer and food of equal caliber, Beach Fire Brewery is the must stop destination on your Ale Trail experience in Campbell River. A cozy atmosphere with occasional live music and friendly staff, you could easily spend hours here lost in good conversation and delicious beer. Choose from several locally made staples, the weekly feature brew or one of the rotating partner features. Not a beer drinker? Beach Fire has you covered with ciders, wines and other spirits to keep you satisfied. Enjoy your drinks in the taproom, or take some to-go to the brewery’s namesake; a beach fire on one of the area’s many beaches.
Conveniently located on the scenic Island Highway with a patio that looks out on the Discovery Passage, 50th Parallel is a great place for a dinner in Campbell River. With 20 different taps that feature both reliable favourites and eclectic rotations, you’re sure to find something refreshing to sip on as you watch the boats (and with any luck some wildlife) pass by. With the Rotary Seawalk right there as well, 50th Parallel is a perfect place to stop in while you walk or bike the oceanfront.
The central north island has a treasure trove of resorts, cottages, hotels, B&Bs and vacation rental homes that offer stunning views and easy access to the craggy shorelines and beaches that fill the landscape. From high-end luxury, to low-key and relaxing, there is something for every travel style.
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Be sure to stop in at the Campbell River Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Plan ahead: to see all that Campbell River has to offer, including things to see, places to stay, tours, restaurants, events and all else, please visit www.campbellriver.travel while planning your ale-venture.
Campbell River is located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Laich-Kwil-Tach people of the Wei Wai Kum and We Wai Kai First Nations. Nestled between the strong tidal forces of the Discovery Passage and 5 Provincial Parks, including BC’s oldest Provincial Park, Strathcona, Campbell River boasts rustic wilderness in all directions.
Day 5
Telegraph Cove + Port McNeill
Spend the morning exploring Telegraph Cove. This iconic destination is famed for its eco-tourism and a postcard waterfront setting featuring multicoloured clusters of buildings and homes that cling to the rocky shoreline. Top activities include fishing, kayaking, diving, hiking, and of course wildlife viewing tours.
NOTE: following the devastating fires in the fall of 2024, several iconic attractions remain closed as they work to rebuild. However, we encourage you to stop in to support the businesses still thriving, and explore Telegraph Cove's famed ecotourism offerings and picture-postcard waterfront setting.
A North Island favourite for great food and craft beer. From burgers to fish and chips, as well as a tasty menu of fish, pork or bean tacos and more, made with locally sourced ingredients, it’s the perfect stop for lunch on the way to Port McNeill.
The Port McNeill & District Museum was built with community support to display logging memorabilia from the North Island. Opened in 2000, we welcome all visitors as an essential part of your North Island experience.
Based in an old mechanic shop that was remodelled with a warm wood interior, the brewery provides a social environment free of T.V. distractions and beautiful views of Port McNeill Harbour with a giant patio where you can linger while enjoying a delicious dinner and drink.
This stylish cedar property boasts 11 Cabins and 40 tastefully decorated guest rooms each with stunning views of the protected harbour, Malcolm Island, and the coastal mountains of British Columbia's mainland. The Black Bear Resort Hotel has been designed and built to provide maximum comfort for guests regardless of the season.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Port McNeill Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Day 6
Continue north to Port Hardy
Offering freshly brewed beverages and homemade baked goods, served with love.
Travel to Port Hardy, approximately 30 minute drive
Coastal Rainforest Safaris delivers exciting wilderness experiences rooted in the culturally rich territories of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. Hop aboard our rigid hull inflatable (RHIB) wildlife viewing boats and explore the diverse wildlife of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest.
Nax’id’ Pub is a wonderful place to relax and unwind while enjoying an amazing selection of drinks and our delicious freshly made dishes, inspired by local ingredients and First Nations’ flavours.
Immerse yourself in all the beauty Vancouver Island North has to offer while staying in North Island’s only premier First Nations 4-star Hotel.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Port Hardy Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Day 7
Port Hardy + Holberg
Come in for artisan coffee and baking for a light breakfast. Also offering lunch items and a selection of thoughtfully curated gifts, books and clothing items, all in one stop! Grab a picnic lunch to take with you to enjoy on the beach.
Drive past Holberg to the San Josef Bay Trailhead parking lot at Cape Scott Provincial Park (approximately 1.5 hours)
The drive from Port Hardy to Holberg, and ultimately the parking lot of Cape Scott Provincial Park, is well marked. Just follow the signs. You will be travelling on logging roads which can be a slow go. While driving on active logging roads, please remember that loaded logging trucks always get the right of way.
Enjoy an easy hike along the well-maintained gravel trail which ends at the sandy shore of San Josef Bay in the southeastern corner of the park. The average one-way hiking time is 45 minutes for the 2.5km walk. Get a taste of Cape Scott's unique terrain and spectacular Pacific Ocean vistas, and spend some time exploring the beaches.
Stop in for a late lunch or dinner at Vancouver Island's most remote pub. For close to 50 years the Scarlet Ibis has been an icon in the community of Holberg serving wholesome food and cold drinks to locals and tourists alike. Their unique craft beers are a result of a partnership with Nanaimo's Longwood Brewery. Want to stay longer? Book one of their adventure huts and stay overnight.
Produced In Collaboration With
The Comox Valley is a place that inspires creativity, tempts the taste buds, soothes the soul and fires the imagination of adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated halfway up the east coast of Vancouver Island, this community faces the sea and embraces the mountains, has the charm of a small town but with a touch of urban sophistication and taste. Experience it all, from full on adventures to blissful relaxation. Blast down an alpine ski run with an ocean view, scuba dive in crystal clear water, mountain bike or hike along a glacier-fed river, dine on true farm to table fare, or get pampered at one of the popular spas. The choices are endless and it all starts now in the Comox Valley!
Campbell River is at the heart of the “North Central Island” and surrounded by 5 Provincial Parks, (Strathcona, Miracle Beach, Mohun Lake, Loveland Bay and Elk Falls), but exploring a little farther afield, our region offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of Vancouver Island’s best-kept secrets. Paddle the Sayward Canoe Route, discover Gold River’s Upana Caves, fish the west coast near Tahsis and Zeballos, or island hop in the Discovery Islands for a truly memorable experience.
Dining options are plentiful in Campbell River, whether it’s fish and chips served dockside in a marina or surf and turf platters in a comfortable pub or restaurant, the fine cuisine offers visitors a chance to hang out with locals and savour the fine food of the region.
No matter how you chose to enjoy the outdoors and dining options, you’ll leave our city by the sea feeling fulfilled and connected to your natural surroundings.
Vancouver Island North is the first word and last stop in western Canada for relaxed and spontaneous ecoadventure. Where you can witness wildlife, such as whales, eagles, and black bears, while discovering our magical shorelines and inland wilderness. Experience Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations traditions, art, and living culture.