Local Hidden Gems

Explore Vancouver Island's unconventional landmarks, ranging from Nanaimo’s seismic fissure known as The Abyss to the man-made waterfall at Port Alberni's Hole-in-the-Wall. This collection features the historic afternoon tea tradition at Victoria's Fairmont Empress and the indigenous totem poles of Thunderbird Park. In Coombs, the Old Country Market displays a living sod roof grazed by goats, while Qualicum Beach hosts spherical treehouses suspended within a coastal rainforest.

Tea at the Empress

Located in the Fairmont Empress hotel, this traditional afternoon tea service has operated since 1908. The menu features house-made scones with clotted cream, signature pastries, and loose-leaf teas served in the historic Lobby Lounge overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

The Abyss

A large geological fissure located along the Extension Ridge Trail near Nanaimo. This crack in the earth, measuring approximately 50 centimeters wide, resulted from seismic activity and offers a view into a deep, narrow chasm within the rock.

Hole-in-the-Wall

A circular opening blasted through a solid shale wall in Port Alberni, originally created decades ago to accommodate a pipeline. Now abandoned, the hole serves as a passage for a small creek, creating a unique waterfall and swimming hole.

Old Country Market - Goats on Roof

This market in Coombs is known for its sod-covered roof where a resident herd of goats grazes during the spring and summer months. The facility includes an international deli, bakery, and shops selling local crafts and imported goods.

Thunderbird Park

Thunderbird Park is a park in Victoria, British Columbia next to the Royal British Columbia Museum.

Free Spirit Spheres

Free-spirited souls should come to see (or sleep overnight) the small spheres hanging from the trees in the middle of a coastal rainforest.