All articlesThings to Do in Lake Cowichan
Day 1: Country roads and Cowichan’s wine-growing climate
Celebrate your arrival amongst the Cowichan Valley’s long-standing agricultural and culinary-focused way of life with a pitstop at the family-run Drumroaster Coffee.
From here, stay off Highway 1 to soak up the pastoral views and explore the vineyards, farms, and cidery around Cobble Hill and north toward Duncan. Let your day unfold in rhythm with the winding country roads, keeping an eye out for farmstands. Ground yourself in a pace of life tied close to the land and witness the intentional practices that result in award-winning wines at the likes of Unsworth Vineyards, Cobble Hill Winery, and Cherry Point Estate Wines. Several intimate tour operators can be booked to facilitate a multi-winery tour, like Warmland Tours and Twofiveo Tour Co. Enjoy the passion and stories in every sip shared by each vineyard’s enthusiastic proprietors.
Once you’re satiated, immerse yourself in the full spectrum of country life with a visit to A Home for Hooves Farm Sanctuary—home to over 200 rescued animals like horses, pigs, and cattle— or join a horse ride through the valley’s views with Alpine Stables.
Day 2: A Totem Tour and Lakeside Life
Start your day in Duncan with a plate of pancakes, eggs Benedict, or French toast at Brunch on 3rd. Duck your head into some of Duncan’s eye-catching and artistic shops, like Eclectic Avenue Vintage Boutique, Little Bird, Volume One Bookstore, Khaya Home Decor, and Blend Gathered Goods. Be sure to keep an eye out for the many totems that line Duncan’s streets as you wander around or commit to embarking on the full self-guided Totem Tour.
Before heading to Lake Cowichan, stop for lunch at Alderlea Farm and Cafe (check seasonal hours before visiting). The afternoon is wide open for activities on and around the water, whether you want to rent a kayak from Kaatza Adventures for a relaxed paddle or have a go at tubing from Lake Cowichan down the Cowichan River. Enjoy dinner in Lake Cowichan’s laid-back community core with a waterfront view at Jakes at the Lake. Finish your vacation day with an ice cream at Mountain Man Ice Cream Company.
For a truly nostalgic way to experience the shores of Lake Cowichan, consider trading the tent pegs for a set of vintage keys. Renting a classic Westfalia van from Base Camp Adventure Rentals is like hitting the slow down button on your entire trip. These iconic campers, affectionately named North and Cocoa Puff, come fully equipped with everything from cozy bedding to a French press, making them the ultimate home-on-wheels for your lakeside retreat.
Whether you’re snagging a spot under the Douglas firs at Lakeview Park Campsite or finding a quiet corner at Gordon Bay Provincial Park, these vans turn camping into an aesthetic retreat. For those seeking a more off-the-grid connection, steer toward the quieter BC Recreation Sites dotted around the lake. There’s nothing quite like the ritual of waking up in the forest and brewing your morning coffee with a front-row view of the mist rising off the water.
