Welcome to the Cowichan Valley

The Cowichan Valley is a region that includes the Cowichan River, Cowichan Bay and Cowichan Lake on Vancouver Island. The Cowichan Region takes its name from “Quw’utsun’,” an aboriginal word that means “the warm land.”

Communities that lie within the Cowichan Valley area include Duncan, Lake Cowichan, Cowichan Bay, Cowichan Station and Maple Bay. Other local communities include Crofton, Chemainus, Cobble Hill, Shawnigan Lake, and Mill Bay.

The Cowichan Valley is known for its warm, dry summers and mild, moist winters.  As part of Canada’s only maritime Mediterranean climate, it attracts hobby farmers, gardening enthusiasts and year-round golfers, hikers and bikers.  The area is home to a number of vineyards and wineries and many cafes and restaurants, some tucked away in unexpected areas.  Although a haven for retirees, it also attracts families who enjoy the mix of rural and urban amenities.  There are countless trails and parks that offer a chance to get out, and the Trans Canada (Great) Trail goes through the Valley, enhancing access to walking, riding or hiking the area.