Across the Island

Pick up locations: 

• Departure Bay Ferry

• Duke Point Ferry

• Hullo Ferry

• Helijet

• Nanaimo Airport

• Nanaimo Seaplane Terminals

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

Situated along the pristine Englishman River, north of Nanaimo, this park features two stunning waterfalls cascading into a deep canyon. Depending on recent rainfall, the falls can range from a gentle showpiece to a roaring spectacle that might leave you a little wet if you get too close!
Enjoy a 2–3 km hike to see the best viewpoints. The trail includes uneven ground, roots, and stairs — so bring good footwear and take your time.

Coombs Country Market (“Goats on the Roof”)

A must-see stop! Known affectionately around the world as Goats on the Roof, this quirky market offers an array of unique shops, local crafts, and tasty treats. We’ll stop here for lunch and give you time to explore this beloved island icon.

Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park

"The trees are our castles and the mountains are our cathedrals.”

Cathedral Grove is one of the most accessible old-growth forests on Vancouver Island, protecting a globally significant stand of giant Douglas firs within the Coastal Western Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone.
Stroll through a network of peaceful trails beneath towering trees — some more than 800 years old and one measuring over 9 metres in circumference. These ancient giants are truly awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse of a forest untouched by the modern world.

Hole-in-the-Wall Park

This hidden gem is named after a resurgence spring that flows directly through a limestone rock wall. Visitors are often amazed by the size and sheer volume of water that bursts forth here. Surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic blue-gray limestone cliffs, this natural wonder is both beautiful and easily accessible — just a short 40-metre walk from the road.

McLean Mill National Historic Site

Before we leave Port Alberni, we’ll visit the McLean Mill National Historic Site — a former sawmill and logging operation set on 13 hectares of forested land in the Alberni Valley. This fascinating site offers a glimpse into British Columbia’s rich forestry heritage, with original buildings and restored machinery bringing the region’s logging past to life.

We’ll also make a quick stop at the Quay on the canal, where you’ll learn about the devastating tidal wave that surged up the inlet in 1964.

Big Qualicum Hatchery

Built in 1963, the Big Qualicum Hatchery was the first modern salmon enhancement project in the province and has since served as a model for others. The hatchery uses innovative spawning channels and enhancement techniques to support populations of Pacific salmon — including Chinook, coho, pink, and chum.
Research conducted here has expanded our understanding of salmon behaviour, life cycles, and habitat needs.
The best viewing time is from late July through December, when the salmon return to spawn.

French Creek Marina

The French Creek Marina is a fantastic place to spot sea lions in their natural habitat. From September to May, they gather here to feast on salmon and herring runs, though many can be seen year-round. Bring your camera — these playful and vocal creatures are always a highlight!

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

If it's not the right time of year for the best salmon or sealion viewing we'll head to Rathtrevor Beach, a beautiful provincial park in Parksville known for its long, sandy shoreline stretching nearly 2 km. This 347-hectare park features old-growth trees, scenic walking trails, and a large sandbar revealed at low tide, creating endless opportunities for beachcombing and exploration. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take a stroll, and soak in a classic Vancouver Island sunset.

Sorry to see you go but we'll get you back to your starting point and on your way, unless you'd like to see more? Please contact us for further travel suggestions or locations to extend your time on our Island.