Comox Valley, British Columbia

The Comox Valley is a region of Vancouver Island located about mid way up the island. Originally called land of plenty by the First Nations tribes who lived there, this region is growing fast and it offers a tremendous number of opportunities and activities for young and old. This region spans an area of more than 660 square miles and it is currently home to more than 65,000 people. It comprises the communities of the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox, CFB Comox, and the villages of Cumberland, Royston, Union Bay, Fanny Bay, Merville and Black Creek. It is surrounded by some of the most scenic areas in Canada.

Early History

The Elasmosaurus roamed this region about 80 million years ago but the region began experiencing dramatic changes during the Earth shaping glacial ages between 650,000 and 20,000 years ago. The Comox Glacier is a local landmark that remains as the only evidence of this bygone era. The first human inhabitants of the area date back to about 9000 years ago. The first Europeans visited the area by ship and the nearby Comox Harbour was used by the Royal Navy in the mid 1800s. The Comox wharf was built in 1874 providing a permanent entrance to this region of Vancouver Island. A connecting road was built into the area in 1910 and the E&N Railway connected the area further in 1915. Local museums in Courtenay, Comox and Cumberland provide valuable insights into the unique history of this region.

Getting Here

After getting to Vancouver Island the Comox Valley is about an hour and a half drive from Nanaimo and about 2 1/2 hours drive from Victoria. Most visitors take the Ferry across from either Horseshoe Bay north of Vancouver or Tsawwassen to the south.

Visitor Centre

The Vancouver Island Visitor Centre located just off Highway 19 enroute to Courtenay welcomes you with an abundance of information on the local area. The exhibit gallery presents highlights of the large variety of ocean, alpine, forest and agricultural tourism that await you. There are also exhibits that portray the beauty and attractions that you fill find throughout this region of Vancouver Island.

Economy

The economy of the region is diverse and growing. Originally supported by natural resources sectors such as those found in fishing, agriculture and coal mining, the area has become much more diverse and stable. The local Air Force Base does provide a sizable injection economically into the region but so does small business and tourism. Some favorite winter activities include skiing at nearby Mount Washington. Fishing, hiking and boating account for some of the favored summer activities and others such as golf can be undertaken year round. The real estate and construction industries are becoming a significant activity as more and more people come to visit. This region has become a favorite destination for people year round and after a short stay many come back and buy homes and properties in the Comox Valley real estate market. After owning investment and vacation properties in the area, quite a number of people are deciding to relocate here.

Activities

The number of activities that await the visitor to the Comox Valley are nearly endless. A number of Heritage Tours are available that include four walking and one self guided driving tour to view the rich social, cultural, natural and industrial history of the Comox Valley. Outdoor recreational activities include fishing, boating, whale watching, eco-trips, hiking, biking, mountain biking, and just about every type of sport. Visit one of the many parks and gardens or sample the local cuisine from fine restaurants to farmers markets. Shopping include specialty, quaint, boutique and big box chain stores. Visit local vineyards and sample their fare or drop by any number of arts, music and seafood festivals that take place throughout the year. This land of plenty has plenty of things for you to do, see, and enjoy.