Blog

A Local’s Guide To The Abyss & Extension Ridge Trail

January 15, 2020

A huge, seemingly bottomless fissure in the earth, a fairy circle, sweeping views of the Salish Sea and peek-a-boo views of Mt. Benson: this is an outdoor experience not to be missed. Commonly known to locals as The Abyss, Extension Ridge – a 4.5km section of The Great Trail (formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail) – is a stunning hidden gem in Nanaimo and a favourite playground for mountain bikers, hikers and dog walkers alike. A Brief History Of The Abyss The trail is not only rich in curious points of interest and picturesque views but history too! According […]

View Post

5 Photo-Worthy Waterfront Parks In Nanaimo

January 7, 2020

Among the many things that make this city a special place, the sheer number of waterfront parks in Nanaimo makes it worthy of much coastal exploration. From long, meandering trails to short walks to pebble beaches, these coastal gems are a perfect afternoon activity for anyone yearning for the ocean air. Here are some our favourite waterfront parks in Nanaimo: Neck Point Park Neck Point Park is a gorgeous 36-acre waterfront park found at the end of Morningside Drive, just off of Hammond Bay Road. Beachcombers rejoice! Neck Point has four beaches for the public to explore; Finn Beach, Indian […]

View Post

The Harbour City’s Best: Sushi in Nanaimo

January 7, 2020

Nanaimo is the place for superb, even sometimes extravagant, sushi. This city boasts a wide variety of cuisine. However, there are few dishes Nanaimo does better than this traditional Japanese food. From downtown to the North end, it’s a guarantee there’s a nearby sushi spot worth its weight in Sake. Firehouse Grill Once filled with firetrucks and equipment, Nanaimo’s old firehall is now home to a high-end and stylish restaurant. Located downtown Nanaimo on Victoria Street, the Firehouse Grill is the perfect place to grab a bite on your way to enjoy the delights downtown has to offer. Here, where […]

View Post

Winter Activities in Nanaimo

December 3, 2019

Beat the cold: stay warm and entertained with these winter activities in Nanaimo While we’re certainly not heralded as snow destination, the Harbour City gets its fair share of cold weather. Luckily, there is an abundance of winter activities in Nanaimo to keep you busy and entertained during the more dreary months. There are many benefits to travelling during the off-season. Reap the benefits of less crowded areas. Enjoy a stunning fog that rolls over the city and year-round hikes. The city’s weather is mild in comparison to other parts of Canada, but we still like to bundle up from […]

View Post

Four Random Facts About Nanaimo

December 3, 2019

#1. You Can Dive Sunken Wrecks In Nanaimo Here’s a fun fact about Nanaimo you might not know: it is home to three fascinating wreck dives. In 1997, The HMCS Saskatchewan, a 366-foot navy destroyer, was sunk off the shores of Nanaimo to create an artificial diving reef. Subsequently, the Saskatchewan was joined on the ocean floor by the HMCS Cape Breton, a retired Canadian Supply Ship, now recognized as the World’s Largest Artificial Upright Reef. Later in 2005, the Nanaimo Dive Association sank a third vessel, the RivTow Lion, a retired deep-sea rescue tug. These three wrecks attract dive […]

View Post

The Best Kids’ Stores in Downtown Nanaimo

December 3, 2019

If you’re out shopping for the wee ones in your life, there are plenty of amazing kids stores Downtown Nanaimo. Pumpkin Pie Kids The first stop on anyone’s kids’ shopping spree should be Pumpkin Pie Kids. This fabulous kids’ store is located in the Old City Quarter and has been open for 21 years. They have a massive assortment of children’s items; baby gear for bath time, teething items, diapers, baby carriers, the list goes on and on! There’s also babywear for casual, formal, swim and sleep, plus formal and casual wear for girls and boys up to size 8. In […]

View Post

A Sneak Peek At What Vancouver Island Market Has In Store This Winter

November 14, 2019

Vancouver Island is a haven for artisans, which makes finding that perfectly unique gift for your friend, colleague, or family member incredibly easy. Whether it’s gourmet treats, handmade goods, artisanal soaps, or personalized trinkets, there’s literally something for everyone on your list—most of which are sourced from local resources and ingredients found right here on the West Coast. With the holidays fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to check out what some of the local creators have to offer. This year, while sustainably top of mind for many, why not try giving something that uses local resources and supports local […]

View Post

Your Guide to Westwood Lake Park

November 3, 2019

Chris Istace here, aka the Mindful Explorer. I was recently in Nanaimo for an all-day event on a Saturday and knew that I would want a break during my stay. Luckily, I knew just the place: Westwood Lake Park. I had stopped briefly there in the summer and thought it would be nice to return for a longer visit. The days have become shorter The air has become crisp and a bit cooler The rain falls a little more often The clouds and fog roll amongst the trees – Chris Istace To many on Vancouver Island, this sounds perfect and signifies […]

View Post

The Ultimate List Of Rainy Day Activities In Nanaimo

October 15, 2019

When you live on Vancouver Island, you learn to fully embrace the rain and when you visit Vancouver Island, you end up with an appreciation for the relaxing reflection that comes with of a good west coast rain! 1. Hit The Trails: Mountain Bike or Hike Don’t let a little rain get you down, embrace it! With good wet-weather gear, getting outside can offer a whole new perspective on an activity you.Even on the coldest days, there is always a warm place to welcome you inside when you’re done. Nanaimo is ripe with opportunities to hit the trails, our mountain […]

View Post

Gabriola Island Thanksgiving Studio Tour

September 7, 2019

Gabriola Island is known as the Isle of the Arts, and for good reason. This Gulf Island, located a short 25-minute ferry ride from Nanaimo’s downtown, is home to many talented artisans offering creations from jewelry to furniture, ceramics to paintings and sculpture. The 23rd Annual Gabriola Island Thanksgiving Studio Tour provides the public with a rare opportunity to step into the workshops for more than 80 Isle of the Arts Artisans. Fall in love with, and take home, a unique treasure. What: Gabriola Island Thanksgiving Studio Tour When: October 12-14, 2019 Where: Various Artists’ Workshops on Gabriola Island Access […]

View Post

Book Your Stay Now



Search