Island Winter
El Niño got you down?
With another spell of mild weather on its way, you may wonder what the best winter activities are in the Comox Valley besides heading to the mountain.
Snowfall may be low in the valley bottom, but this only means our incredible trail systems are mostly clear for mountain biking, trail running, dog walking, and hiking. Our go-to local bike shop, Gravity MTB shared that “the trails are in much better shape than anticipated — there’s not a lot of snow until the higher trails, and the bottom half of the trail system is running really quite well."
There’s something for everyone here—from relaxed, flowy bike trails and flat, beginner-friendly walking routes to endorphin-filled double blacks and steeper hikes in more challenging terrain. Take in the sea-to-sky scenery, discover a new riverside route, or swing by our lake and oceanfront beaches to enjoy all the green and wild spaces our region has to offer.
Make it a multi-day adventure
Don’t limit yourself to a single day of exploration. Instead, connect more deeply to our forest ecosystems and your flow state with a cozy night, or three, at one of our local accommodations. The best place to stay for access to the trails is in Cumberland itself, but the nearby foodie and cultural hub of Courtenay’s 5th Street is also a popular place to stay—from luxurious hotels and resorts to cozy guesthouses and B&Bs. Further afield in Comox and Royston, book into waterfront accommodation to appreciate the ocean-to-alpine views and the chance to spot migrating marine wildlife.
Where to après in the Comox Valley
Apres culture in the Comox Valley is alive and kicking no matter which outdoor activity you’re enjoying this winter. Cumberland is renowned for its live-acts scene, so you’ll want to keep an eye out for performances at the likes of The Waverley and Moon’s Records. The brewery too is always bustling for a post-run pint, while BiblioTaco, Riders Pizza, COOKS Restaurant, and Gonza Okonomiyaki are perfect for quick bites packed full of flavour.
Courtenay’s 5th Street is where you’ll experience much of the area’s vibrant culinary scene. Experience popular restaurants, cozy cafes, and candlelit bars that showcase a diverse range of cuisines from South African and Asian to Mexican and Italian; all a 15-minute drive from Cumberland.
BiblioTaco
The Waverley Hotel
Recharge with a sauna session
Is there anything better after a day spent outside than a dose of heat therapy for sore muscles? The Comox Valley has a burgeoning sauna scene to suit all budgets. The Lost Faucet in Courtenay has both a traditional and infrared sauna, as well as unique multi-sensory and European-style experiences. In Cumberland itself, you’ll find Guided Sauna and Breathwork sessions with Josh Davis Movement and on weekends Nomadic Sauna pops up at Comox Lake. In Black Creek, Island Sauna has opened on-site sauna and cold plunge sessions, as well as social sauna bookings for a reduced cost. The latter two—Nomadic and Island—also have mobile saunas they can bring to your accommodation. Smith Lake Farm also offers a private bubble sauna experience. Book with three friends and take a plunge in the lake! If you’re looking to go all-out, treat yourself to a sauna, soak, and stay experience at the Kingfisher Resort south of Royston.
Check out our blog on sauna experiences for more.
Island Sauna
Comox Valley Hot Chocolate Festival
February is a month of warm and cozy as the Valley celebrates Winter with hot chocolate!
Held during the winter in different communities across Canada, hot chocolate festivals are becoming very popular. In the Comox Valley, it's a fun way to meet with family and friends, visit different eateries and drink hot spots and take in the beauty of the region.
How It Works
During February cafes, restaurants and chocolatiers in the Valley offer their own hot chocolate beverage with a unique twist. In February, visit cvhotchocofest.ca to find participating businesses, try a new drink, share your experience with friends and rate your drinks.
The festival is presented by L'Arche Comox Valley, a registered charity that provides living support and offers community for adults living with diverse abilities.
