There is a section of wilderness on the Inland Island Highway north of Nanaimo before you arrive at the Comox Valley. When you arrive in the first metropolis on the northernmost section of Vancouver Island, it's so simple to tell. The Comox Glacier Hike marks the western boundary of the valley, while to your left are the snow-capped Beaufort Mountains. The eastern edge of the valley is defined by the saline Georgia Strait on your right. The lowlands below are gently rolled down by rocky, snow-covered peaks.

The lovely Comox Valley is made up of forests, alpine meadows, crystal-clear rivers, sandy beaches, and peaceful farming. The Comox Valley stretches for about 30 miles (50 kilometres) or so, from Fanny Bay in the south to Saratoga Beach in the north. It serves as Vancouver Island's centre for recreation. Skiing, golfing, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving—all on the same day—is only possible in the Comox Valley. Go on an outdoor adventure-filled vacation, explore the amazing creative and cultural scene (four museums, live theatre, several local festivals and attractions), or go shopping at one of the many boutique-style businesses.

We reached the elegant lodgings at the storied "Ship's Point Inn" next to Fanny Bay. This elegant inn is a tranquil bed and breakfast tucked away on Ships Point's coastline. When you pull into the parking area, you are greeted with the well-kept grounds and flower-covered arbour entrance. The inn features a veranda with miles of ocean views, a covered hot tub, and a garden gazebo. The sound of sea lions talking about their days may be heard in the distance.

Six well decorated rooms with views of Georgia Strait and Baynes Sound are available at the inn.

The Inn is far from the Oceanside Route Highway that leads to Courtenay and Comox and is located at the end of Ships Point Road. The expansive terrace offers views of snow-capped mountains, sea lions, eagles, the ferry pier for Denman Island, and cruise ships sailing to and from Alaska.

The surroundings are extremely serene, and the sunsets are quite exceptional. This four-star inn is a wonderful getaway for couples or anybody looking to unwind. The region is ideal for "antiquing," going to art galleries, walking on the beach, cycling, viewing birds, fishing, playing golf, hiking, and kayaking.

View the Vacation Deals in Comox

The renowned Fanny Bay oysters are produced in Fanny Bay. Find out where to obtain a feed of these fantastic oysters by asking the personnel at the inn. With frequent BC Ferry service, Fanny Bay also serves as the entry point to Denman and Hornby Islands. You must first take the boat to Denman, drive across the island, and then catch a timely ferry to Hornby Island to get there.

We checked in and then left to eat lunch. The Monte Cristo was suggested by one of our neighbourhood acquaintances. The deck of this restaurant looks out over a tributary of the Courtenay River. The staff delivered a special cake to the "birthday girl" in recognition of the fact that we were celebrating a birthday in addition to a great lunch. One of Courtenay's top dining establishments, this one comes highly recommended.

We made the decision to attend the Coombs Country market, the best tiny tourist trap in the entire world, after lunch. The goats that reside on the grass roof above this rustic store are its claim to fame. The store's proprietor travels the globe in search of distinctive gifts and speciality foods to stock it with. Although Coombs is not in the Comox Valley, being in Fanny Bay puts it in the centre of a lot of things. From Fanny Bay, Coombs is about 30 minutes to the south and west by car. The Coombs Country Market features the best ice cream shop on Vancouver Island, a deli, a produce area, a bakery, amazing crafts from all over the globe, and more. Over 30 ice cream flavours are available at the 40-foot ice cream bar.

Jan Neuspiel is the owner of a Hike Vancouver Island. Jan has traveled the length and breadth of Vancouver Island BC Canada in search of adventures.