Blog

Sailing to Bamfield: A West Coast Day Trip with Lady Rose Marine Services

Experience the rhythms of coastal life aboard the MV Frances Barkley from Port Alberni to Bamfield If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the west coast of Vancouver Island – whether you’re visiting the Alberni Valley or living nearby – a day trip to Bamfield aboard the MV Frances Barkley offers a memorable […]

Bird Watching in the Alberni Valley: Top Spots and Tips

A Seasonal Guide to Local Birding Spots, Species Highlights, and Ways to Support Wildlife in the Alberni Valley. The Alberni Valley is home to a remarkable variety of bird species, thanks to its blend of wetlands, forests, coastal shorelines, and mountainous terrain. For residents and visitors alike, birdwatching (or birding) is a meaningful way to […]

Port Alberni’s Ale & Spirits Trail: Sip, Snack, and Unwind

Craft beer, small-batch spirits, and local flavour on tap across the Valley. Whether you’re capping off a hike, catching up with friends, or simply craving a quiet corner with a cold drink, Port Alberni’s afternoon scene has plenty to offer. From craft breweries and small-batch spirits to character-filled pubs, this guide highlights places to sip, […]

Rainy Days in Port Alberni

Best Spots for Walks, Warm Drinks, and Indoor Fun Sometimes it rains… Who are we kidding? Port Alberni is surrounded by a stunning coastal rainforest, and rain is just part of life here. If you live on or are visiting Vancouver Island at this time of the year, you probably have rain gear and know […]

Join The 2025 McLean Mill 10K Run on April 6

Experience History, Nature, and Community in This Scenic Race A Race Through History and Nature The McLean Mill 10K is more than just a race – it’s an experience that blends running with history, and natural beauty. Set at the McLean Mill National Historic Site, this 10K run takes participants through scenic trails that weave […]

Kulth-ka-choolth: Honoring Mount Arrowsmith’s Legacy

A Mountain with a Name That Tells a Story For the Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations, the mountain known as Kulth-ka-choolth—meaning “Jagged Points Facing Upward”—is far more than its towering peaks. Its name paints a vivid picture of its striking silhouette while honoring its cultural and spiritual significance. Kulth-ka-choolth has been central to the stories, […]

Storm Watching on Vancouver Island’s West Coast

Port Alberni is BC’s Gateway to Three Prime Storm Watching Locations! The west coast of Vancouver Island is renowned for its spectacular storm-watching opportunities, drawing visitors eager to witness the raw power of nature. The Alberni Valley, centrally located, serves as an ideal base for exploring these awe-inspiring coastal events — and offers its own […]