Central Vancouver
Island Ale Trail
Community craft breweries abound from Cowichan's warm climate and agricultural heritage to Nanaimo’s urban, maritime vibe and the tranquil beaches of Parksville Qualicum Beach
Heading north up the Island Highway from Victoria, the spectacular vistas of the Malahat Summit give way to the rural agricultural splendour of Cowichan, a valley that has long been known as The Warm Land. And it is warm indeed: the region’s maritime Mediterranean climate boasts the warmest year-round temperature anywhere in Canada.
Sounds like a great place to drink craft beer, right? Well, you have lots of options at breweries in Duncan and Ladysmith for delicious beer and food.
The mid-Island port city of Nanaimo offers several brewery options. Enjoy the urban vibe at some of the city’s many restaurants and shops and then work off all the tasty treats you sampled by snorkelling with seals or hopping on a mountain bike, stand-up paddle board, or kayak.
Continue to the sheltered stretch of coastline in Nanoose Bay and Parksville Qualicum Beach, which is home to some of the province’s most spectacular beaches, as well as several excellent breweries.
Continue your island ale-venture with the Pacific Rim Ale Trail or the Northern Vancouver Island Ale Trail.
Longwood Brewpub in Nanaimo, BC
Deadhead Brew Co. in Duncan, BC
Nanaimo, BC
White Sails Brewing in Nanaimo, BC
Malahat Skywalk in Malahat, BC
LoveShack Libations, Qualicum Beach
Parksville Qualicum Beach, BC
Longwood Brewery on Boxwood Road in Nanaimo, BC (photo: provided)
Coombs, BC
LoveShack Libations in Qualicum Beach, BC (photo provided)
Red Arrow Brewing Company in Duncan, BC
Rusted Rake Brewing in Nanoose Bay, BC
Craig Street Brew Pub in Duncan, BC
Wolf Brewing Company in Nanaimo, BC
Longwood Brewpub in Nanaimo, BC
Fern + Cedar Brewing in Qualicum Beach, BC
Bayview Brewing Company in Ladysmith, BC (photo: provided)
Kinsol Trestle in Shawnigan Lake, BC
Finlayson Arm in the Cowichan Valley, BC
Rusted Rake Brewing in Nanoose Bay, BC (photo: provided)
Pacific Northwest Raptors in Duncan, BC
Mount Arrowsmith Brewing Company in Parksville, BC
Fern + Cedar Brewing Company in Qualicum Beach, BC
Horne Lake Caves near Parksville Qualicum Beach, BC
Red Arrow Brewing Company in Duncan, BC
Longwood Brewpub in Nanaimo, BC
Bayview Brewing Company in Ladysmith, BC
Nanaimo, BC
Mount Arrowsmith Brewing in Parksville, BC
White Sails Brewing in Nanaimo, BC
Wolf Brewing Company in Nanaimo, BC
Qualicum Beach, BC
Craig Street Brew Pub in Duncan, BC
Deadhead Brew Co in Duncan, BC
Nanaimo, BC
Wolf Brewing Company in Nanaimo, BC
Longwood Brewery on Boxwood Road in Nanaimo, BC (photo: provided)
Craig Street Brewpub in Duncan, BC
White Sails Brewing in Nanaimo, BC
Red Arrow Brewing Company in Duncan, BC
Wild Play Element Parks (photo: Jordyn Giesbrecht / Tourism Nanaimo)
Longwood Brewery on Boxwood Road in Nanaimo, BC
Rusted Rake Brewing in Nanoose Bay, BC
Cowichan Valley, BC
LoveShack Libations in Qualicum Beach, BC (photo provided)
Ladysmith, BC
Deadhead Brew Co in Duncan, BC
Fern + Cedar Brewing in Qualicum Beach, BC
Bayview Brewing Company in Ladysmith, BC
Mount Arrowsmith Brewing in Parksville, BC
Day 1
Cowichan
Travel Info
From the mainland of BC:
Travel to Vancouver Island on BC Ferries.
Drive on the Ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay, Victoria,
Or, from Vancouver, take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo; or, from Tsawwassen to Duke Point.
Alternatively, you can walk onto the new Hullo Ferries fast ferry from Downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo.
Drive from Victoria to Malahat, approximately 30 minutes
Perched 1880 feet above sea level atop the Malahat Summit, Villa Eyrie Resort is a mountain side retreat with a restaurant, spa, hiking trails and more.
Malahat SkyWalk offers an accessible 600m TreeWalk through a beautiful arbutus forest leading to a spectacular gentle spiral ramp that takes you up 32m to a sightseeing lookout offering views of Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker and the distant Coast Mountains.
A wooden railway trestle located north of Shawnigan Lake with spectacular views of the Koksilah River. One of the tallest free-standing timber rail trestle structures in the world.
With a fresh new brand and stylish renovations, Deadhead Brew Co has infused their quirky personalities into every corner of the former Small Block Brewing space. Now brewing an exciting array of new beers, their brewery isn’t just a place to grab a drink—it’s a playground for beer lovers, where creativity flows as freely as the taps.
Make a pit stop at this Duncan brewery located in a converted custom motorcycle shop. Proudly brewed in the Cowichan valley since 205, Red Arrow seeks to keep it simple and do what they do best: proudly and thoughtfully provide good beer and good times to their customers and community. Enjoy the full-service menu in the cozy taproom or the expansive patio.
Locally owned and managed, focusing on quality craft producers.
From well-appointed hotels and dozens of delightful B&B’s, to yurts, houseboats and float homes, there is something for everyone and every budget.
Explore More
Along with excellent breweries, Cowichan is also home to a number of craft distilleries, award-winning wineries, and Canada’s first estate cidery. Just north of Duncan is Canada’s first commercial tea farm. To fully experience the artistry and passion infused in every glass, consider slowing down and savouring the journey. Give yourself a few days to unwind and truly appreciate the flavours and experiences the Cowichan region has to offer.
For a truly immersive experience, consider hiring a local tour operator to guide you through the region. They’ll handle the logistics, share fascinating stories, and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience as you relax and indulge in the region’s finest craft beverages.
Don’t miss out on local events during your visit! Check the Cowichan events calendar to see what’s happening.
Day 2
Duncan
This community café serves homemade and organic vegetarian fare.
The Raptors brings people closer to birds of prey. Their goal is to educate, illuminate and inspire a sense of personal responsibility for the future of both birds of prey and the planet. A variety of experiences and tours available, including flying demonstrations and hand-on experiences.
Every Saturday, year round, from 9am until 2pm you will find a sea of tents in the market square on Craig Street and down Ingram Street under which more than 100 vendors sell their wares. As a true farmers’ market, priority is given to farmers and growers, and an amazing array of local artisans and makers offering the unique and unusual are also hosted here.
Duncan is an eclectic city nestled in the heart of the Cowichan Valley and is known as the “City of Totems.” Downtown Duncan features over 40 beautifully carved totems by Indigenous artists from across Vancouver Island, Canada and as far away as New Zealand. Take a self-guided walking tour of the collection and learn about the unique stories and rich history behind each one. Pick-up a totem tour map at the Cowichan Valley Museum or take a virtual tour with the interactive map.
With a menu that has something for everyone, tuck in for a meal and a sampler flight at Duncan’s downtown brewpub.
You can hike and bike year round on Vancouver Island and Cowichan offers some of the best trails. There is Mt. Prevost; famous across Canada as a destination for past world champions with double-black pro lines; the forest of Mt. Tzouhalem, known locally as Mt. Zoo with 36 km (22 mi) of trails; and the boardwalks, bridges and techy rocky terrain of Maple Mountain that will challenge even the most skilled riders.
Fostering community and connections, served with a side of local craft brews and delicious home-grown eats.
From well-appointed hotels and dozens of delightful B&B’s, to yurts, houseboats and float homes, there is something for everyone and every budget.
Explore More
Swim, paddle, and sail your way through Cowichan waters. Cowichan offers a myriad of aquatic pursuits such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, kiteboarding, scuba diving, river tubing, and sailing.
Ocean Ecoventures offers a variety of year-round whale and wildlife watching tours, with a focus on sustainability, conservation, education and research.
For a unique experience, explore with Traditional Oar & Sail, offering guided excursions exploring the coast under oar & sail with traditional boats
Day 3
Ladysmith and Chemainus
From the beginning, Old Town Bakery’s intentions were to provide quality, yet affordable, from scratch baking, reminiscent of Grandma’s treats. What really put them on the map was being voted “Island’s Best Cinnamon Buns – Reader’s Choice” by Victoria’s Times Colonist. Try their breakfast, lunch, and variety of treats and drinks.
The Chemainus Festival of Murals Society manages, maintains, and adds new murals to the outdoor art gallery consisting of over 60 murals and 10 sculptures in Chemainus. The art ranges from conventional murals on buildings, to interactive displays and augmented reality experiences. Explore on a self-guided tour around town.
The par 71/73 Mount Brenton Golf Course features shaded fairways flanked by towering trees. A challenge for every level of golfer, there are plenty of creeks to hurdle and ponds to circumvent. Maintained by an excellent grounds crew the fairways are lush, the greens are true and the sand is deep. An extensive drainage system also makes Mount Brenton one of the most playable golf courses year round on Vancouver Island.
After your round, stay for lunch at the Mount Brenton Pub
The Arts Council of Ladysmith and District and the Ladysmith Gallery is the most comprehensive visual arts organization in Ladysmith. The Ladysmith Gallery hosts monthly art exhibitions and features artworks from artists all over Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. They also offer special art experiences such as art pop ups and prestigious art exhibitions like the biennial Fine Arts Show. The gallery also provides rental space for artists to host their own gallery exhibitions that are open to the public.
This centrally located seaside park is a major gathering spot for activities and community events. Go for a swim, have a picnic, paddle a kayak, or enjoy the fabulous spray park and playground. Live music events during the summer months at the large amphitheater.
A locally owned and operated brewery based in Ladysmith, BC specializing in creative sours, specifically dessert sours! The food program features an eclectic, fresh selection of fusion cuisine with no deep-fried food. They have partnered with several local farms to keep the food as fresh and local as possible.
From well-appointed hotels and dozens of delightful B&B’s, to yurts, houseboats and float homes, there is something for everyone and every budget.
Day 4
Nanaimo
Travel Info
Drive to Nanaimo, approximately 20 minutes
Aerial adventures, bungee jumps and zip lines right in the midst of nature. For adults, teens, kids and groups.
Charming country-style pub in a quiet spacious setting serving pints and classic pub fare. The first neighbourhood pub in British Columbia.
Swing by the brewery in the south end of Nanaimo to visit Wolf’s “beer room.”
Featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and community programs, The Nanaimo Art Gallery is nestled in the heart of downtown Nanaimo. The gallery showcases local and international artists, fostering a deep connection between art, culture, and the stunning landscapes of Vancouver Island. Whether you're exploring contemporary works or joining a creative workshop, the Nanaimo Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers and curious minds alike.
The Longwood Brewpub has anchored the Longwood Station plaza in the north end of Nanaimo since 1999. It has a family-friendly restaurant upstairs and a pub downstairs, with four English-style draught engines serving cellar-conditioned beer to go along with excellent food from the kitchen.
Locally owned and managed, focused on local craft producers
In Nanaimo you can settle in with a well-appointed suite at a high-rise hotel overlooking the sailboats in Nanaimo Harbour, or you can book a room in an affordable guest house or hostel in the midst of lively cafes, restaurants and nightlife.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Nanaimo Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Pair your craft brew sampling with adventure in our outdoor playground! Hike, bike, swim and paddle – Nanaimo is the place to experience your next thrill or moment of reconnection. Rent a paddleboard or kayak from Brechin Boat Ramp and explore the harbour. Take a swim at any of our fine beaches including Blueback and Swy-A-Lana Lagoon, or head to the Nanaimo river for a cool dip. Or take a moment to find yourself in our woods – with biking and hiking trails across the city that take you as far or as close as you’d like to be.
Day 5
Nanaimo
A cafe, restaurant, and live music venue all in one located in Nanaimo downtown.
Vancouver Island Whale Watch is led by a passionate group of marine biologists, whose whale-watching tours will take you straight into the heart of the action. Get up close (but not too close!) to these magnificent creatures, hear their unique stories and discover their vital role in the ocean’s ecosystem.
A contemporary brewery based in a historic location.
36 acres of a waterfront where you’ll find rugged rock cliffs, with pebble bay beaches, and winding trails through Garry Oak groves.
Take a short ferry to Canada’s only registered floating pub, the Dinghy Dock. Watch the float planes land and watch the sun set behind Mt. Benson at this nautical themed, family friendly pub/restaurant.
Longwood’s production brewery has its own tasting room with unique beers on tap.
NOTE: seasonal closure is in effect January - March, 2025.
Locally owned and managed, focusing on quality craft producers.
In Nanaimo you can settle in with a well-appointed suite at a high-rise hotel overlooking the sailboats in Nanaimo Harbour, or you can book a room in an affordable guest house or hostel in the midst of lively cafes, restaurants and nightlife.
Explore More
Work up a thirst hiking to Ammonite Falls or up Mount Benson for beautiful views.
Also, while in Nanaimo you simply can’t leave until you sample a Nanaimo Bar (or two). Pick up or download a copy of the Nanaimo Bar Trail and sample a few variations of Nanaimo’s beloved dessert. Follow along here.
Thirsting for more craft beverage adventures? Sip your way through Nanaimo’s finest with a visit to Arbutus Distillery, Big Bang Cider, or Millstone Estate Winery, where every pour tells a story worth savouring.
Day 6
Nanoose Bay + Parksville
Travel Info
Drive from Nanaimo to Parksville, approximately 30 minutes
Start you day with this popular short hike through Notch Hill Park. It's a 2.9km loop, containing the rare Garry Oak meadow and arbutus forest ecosystem, with spectacular views of of Nanoose harbour and the hills overlooking Nanaimo.
Stop in for lunch and a flight at the brewery and eatery, located on an 18-acre farm. The food and beer are farm-to-table and farm-to-pint: the barley for their beers is grown on site! The menu is full of fresh, unpretentious west coast fare, lovingly prepared with the most delicious local ingredients available.
One of the province's most popular family destinations. A 347-hectare park featureing a five-kilometre long stretch of sandy beach, a forest and parkland. At low tide, the ocean recedes almost a kilometer back from Rathtrevor's shoreline.
With two mini golf courses, (seasonal) bumper boats, and indoor arcade, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
This stylish craft brewery is the perfect accompaniment to Parksville’s beaches and resorts. The kitchen staff are dedicated to providing fresh high-quality dishes that complement our growing line of premium craft beer. The pizzas are especially well-known and for good reason!
Mid Island Parksville Central has a Walk-in beer room, with all brands, all formats, and knowledgeable staff.
Situated on Rathtrevor Beach on the outskirts of the Oceanside town of Parksville. Enjoy a traditional pub-fare menu paired with a fresh pint.
From oceanfront resorts to quaint cabins, search for the best rates, availability, and book your stay.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Parksville Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Looking for more outdoor adventures? Plan a stop at the pristine Englishman River Falls, just a short drive from Parksville and Qualicum Beach. The Provincial Park features two stunning waterfalls cascading along the descending riverbed into a deep canyon. During the summer a crystal clear pool at the base of the lower falls turns into one of the best swimming holes in the area, and the whole park becomes a prime viewing area for the return of spawning salmon in the fall. Up the adrenaline factor by heading to the nearby Hammerfest Mountain Bike Trail Network. Hammerfest has everything from green trails suitable for the whole family to blue flow trails and double black diamonds. Access Hammerfest either from the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park main parking lot or from the yellow gate just before the park entry.
Experience the magic of the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region’s 10 Amazing Places with the official Amazing Places GeoTour! The goal of the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region and Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism Amazing Places is to identify and promote significant natural sites for residents and visitors to explore in order to encourage better knowledge of ecological features and inspire a commitment to conservation. All Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Amazing Places were nominated by the public.
Day 7
Parksville Qualicum Beach
Brazen Poppy is dedicated to kick-starting your morning with choices of skillet breakfasts, breakfast sandwiches, warm muffins, scones, cinnamon buns, poppy seed buns and more plus a fresh cup of hot coffee, a cappuccino, latte, tea or hot chocolate. Later in the day, stop in for fresh home-made soups, sandwiches made fresh daily with bread baked on site and meats that are roasted on site, tacos, and hamburgers.
Coombs has become famous for the goats that live on the roof of the Old Country Market. In addition to the Market, there is a mix of galleries, eclectic shops, historic buildings, antiques, and the colourful Butterfly World to explore. Note: Some attractions close seasonally - check ahead to avoid disappointment.
Listed as one of the “Top 5 Burger Restaurants in Canada” by the readers of Canadian Living Magazine. In addition to their famous burgers, the robust menu offers poutines, fish & chips and salads alongside local craft beer and cider. Gluten-free and vegan options available.
Challenge your abilities and see the world through a caver’s eye. Explore the beauty and mysteries of Vancouver Island’s underworld in a fascinating subterranean adventure. A variety of cave exploration packages suited for all ages and comfort & fitness levels are available. All tours are guided by a knowledgeable and friendly guide who will open your eyes to the world beneath your feet.
This small Qualicum Beach brewery is a labour of love. Only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, so plan carefully to ensure you can experience this nano brewery.
A bold and tasty experience in the heart of Qualicum Beach. With a fresh and local food menu that will compliment an ever-rotating selection of quality craft beer.
From oceanfront resorts to quaint cabins, search for the best rates, availability, and book your stay.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Qualicum Beach Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
The Qualicum Beach shopping experience shuns franchise operations and big box stores in favour of one-of-a-kind boutiques. Wander the pedestrian-friendly streets in the lovely downtown core exploring unique shops, bookstores, antique shops, restaurants, outdoor cafés, and galleries. And don’t miss the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market. Open on Saturdays, year-round, with traditional ‘Make it, Bake it, Grow it’ values.
Need a pick-me-up as you explore? Along with an all-day menu, French Press Coffee Roasters is an award-winning roaster with locations in Parksville and Qualicum Beach, taking home a silver medal at the Golden Bean, the world’s largest coffee roasters competition, in the milk-based category. This specialty coffee roaster prides itself on sourcing and roasting some of the best coffee available.
Produced In Collaboration With
The Cowichan Region takes its name from “Quw’utsun,” the name given to the valley by the Quw’utsun people. It is rooted in the Hul’q’umi’num word “shquw’utsun,” which means “to warm one’s back in the sun,” and is why the valley has been known as The Warm Land. The First People knew what they were talking about: Cowichan is located in Canada’s only maritime Mediterranean climatic zone and is home to the warmest year-round temperature anywhere in the country.
It’s no wonder this place is so well suited to growing things, including an incredible array of food and an unmatched quality of life. For decades, the Cowichan has been producing amazing artisanal food and drink from the region’s burgeoning farms, wineries, cideries, distilleries, fishers and artists.
Located in the heart of Vancouver Island, just 1.5 hours north of Victoria and 30-minutes south of Parksville, Nanaimo is the harbour city and home to 4 craft breweries, a vibrant cultural scene and 360° degrees of adventure. Tap your toes to live music in Diana Krall plaza downtown, or come to one of many outdoor festivals and markets–including internationally recognized Bathtub Days–and Longwoodstock, an annual celebration of music and beer.
There are many options from sea to sky that attract visitors to Nanaimo. Paddle the calm waters of more than 18 lakes in and around Nanaimo, and set your nautical compass for Newcastle Island (Saysutshun), traditional land of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, where you can sample traditional fare of the Coast Salish people.
Parksville Qualicum Beach is where memories come to life; the smells and sounds, tastes and textures that bring you back to a time when the world was a little smaller, people were a little nicer, and time wasn’t a big worry.
While Parksville Qualicum Beach may be best known for amazing sandy beaches that stretch for nearly a mile at low tide, there’s much more to the region than saltwater and sandy shores.
Start your next story with ‘there were goats on the roof’ or ‘we slept in a suspended treehouse,’, and see what kind of a reaction you get from your friends. Discover crystal formations and ancient fossils while sliding through Horne Lake Caves. Explore the ancient forests of Cathedral Grove, raging Englishman River and Little Qualicum Falls – enjoying the scenery and serenity, connecting with the Earth in a way that isn’t possible in the busy city. Visit rescued black bears, eagles, falcons, and other forest creatures, or paddle a kayak to discover sea lions and seals, watching from a respectful distance as they observe you, too.