Mount Washington Alpine Resort and Where to Aprés in the Comox Valley
Celebrate the opening of snow season in 1970s style
The snow has been falling and this year marks the 45th anniversary of lively local mountain operations at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. The season will officially kick off this weekend with a free 1979-themed celebration of the resort’s colourful history on December 14th: Ted’s Rockin’ Revival.
Ted’s Bar & Grill will be adorned with a new showcase of mountain memorabilia sourced from the community. Enjoy “1970s era pricing” on tasty themed food like Funkadelic Fried Chicken, Earth Wind and Fire Chilli, and the Bee Gees Burger and Fries from 11 AM to 10 PM. The party goes until midnight with 1979-inspired set lists from DJs and entertainment from an AC/DC cover band. Plus, come dressed in your best 1970s retro costume to win all kinds of stoke-worthy prizes from Mount Washington, Kindred Snowboards, and Vancouver Island Brewing.
Outside of the big opening weekend, Mount Washington hosts various events across the season and is open every day from December 13th to April 13th, with additional night skiing daily from December 20 to January 5th and on weekends from January 6th to March 30th. Beyond classic downhill skiing and snowboarding, there are Nordic cross-country and skate-ski routes, snowshoe trails and fat biking (weather permitting) if skis and board sports aren’t your thing, and a family-friendly Tube Park.
Breweries and eateries for aprés in the Comox Valley
Want to keep the spirit of opening weekend alive once you’re off the hill or simply immerse in mountain culture during your visit across the winter season? Five breweries across Cumberland, Courtenay, and Comox are ready to host you for a post-run pint or two: Cumberland Brewing Co., Land and Sea, Ace Brewing, Gladstone Brewing Co. and RAD Brewing Company. More traditional-style pubs and taprooms that showcase different beers from across the region can be found at Blackfin Pub in Comox, Roy’s Towne Pub in Royston, and Church St Taphouse in Comox. For something extra special, why not try a complimentary tasting and join a tour at Wayward Distillery in Courtenay where spirits are made from 100% BC honey and grain.
Head from the mountain to live music at one of our performing arts venues like The Waverley in Cumberland or the Sid Williams Theatre in Courtenay. Our breweries and several restaurants often host live music events and even DJ sets, so it’s worth checking event calendars when you’re cherry-picking where to grab your meals.
The Comox Valley food scene thrives with international cuisine, ingredients sourced from our local farms, and independent eateries. Here you’re sure to find the perfect food to refuel with everything from piping hot ramen at Nikkei Ramen-ya and vibrant Middle Eastern cuisine at Habibi’s to an intimate cocktail bar and elevated Italian fare at Il Falcone, warming curry at Curry Cottage, and seasonal, valley-sourced dishes at Locals Restaurant.
Spas, Saunas & Stays
Sore muscles from the slopes or just looking to relax—choose from rejuvenating massages, saunas, and day spa experiences. Soak in a Hydropath journey at the Kingfisher Resort or spend time in nature while staying cozy at Island Sauna or the sauna at Smith Lake Farm. Closer to our core, you’ll find the Lost Faucet Sauna House and several day spas. We highly recommend pre-booking these popular post-snow indulgences before you arrive in the Comox Valley.
Don’t miss out on spending more time in the mountains this winter—book your stay with one of our cozy accommodation providers. Cumberland and Courtenay are a 30-minute drive from Mount Washington Alpine Resort, while Comox is closer to 35 or 40 minutes. Mount Washington Alpine Resort also offers a shuttle bus from several stops in Cumberland and Courtenay with no prior booking necessary.
