Courtesy Bikes Available at Van Isle Marina
Van Isle Marina now offers Courtesy Bikes for our moorage and storage guests. There are four bikes available to sign out at the front desk for quick runs into Sidney, exploring the Saanich Peninsula or even day trips. Here is a list of some fun places around the area to check out by bike! Click on the locations for directions.
The Fickle Fig: Year-round farmers’ market, bakery, and bistro, featuring seasonable, sustainable, local and organic farm produce and products from the peninsula.
Coles Bay: Coles Bay offers a gentle swimming beach, and forest trails suitable for the whole family. Follow either the Beach Trail or the Nature Trail on a 10 minute stroll from the main parking lot to the beach. Have lunch at accessible picnic tables in the grassy picnic area near the parking lot, or at the beach.
Roost – Farm Bakery & Vineyard Bistro: Situated in the heart of North Saanich’s pastoral landscape, the focus is on local food and wine, and sustainability. The Roost roosts on 10 acres of farmland where they grow many items used to produce the food they proudly serve. The wheat grown and milled on-site is used to bake breads fresh daily. The blueberries, sheep, and a unique vineyard, all add to the authentic experience.
Sea Cider: Centrally located off Central Saanich Road, Sea Cider is inviting all two-wheeled adventurers to stop in for refreshment. Open daily for tours and tastings from 11 am to 4 pm. They currently have a Cyclist Special where you can order a Short Flight for $9 and receive an additional complimentary sample. All visitors will also receive wholesale pricing on all cider bottles without any required minimum order or tasting.
Galloping Goose Regional Trail: This picturesque multi-use trail, formerly a railway line, moves through urban, rural and wilderness scenery on its 55 kilometre journey from Victoria to Sooke. You can cycle, stroll, run, or even ride a horse through the rural sections. Whether you’re commuting to work, meandering on a weekend afternoon or pacing yourself from Sidney to Sooke, the trail is yours to enjoy.
Victoria Distillers: Located on the water in beautiful downtown Sidney, visitors are guided through the entire distillation process and around two gleaming copper pot stills. From selecting the botanicals, to the blending and bottling, to the hand-numbering of each small batch, every step is a labour of love. Come for an intimate look in one of BC’s finest artisan distilleries. Following a tour, visitors are invited to taste a selection of our premium spirits neat. They hold daily tours on the hour from 12-4pm. Tours cost $7 for adults and are free for children under 19. They last approximately 45 minutes. Drop-ins are welcome or secure your spot by booking by phone at 250.544.8217.
Horth Hill Regional Park: Enjoy a vigorous climb through varied forest communities on one of several trails in this 36-hectare hilltop park. Rich in native plants and mushrooms, every season boasts a charming display for nature lovers. For spectacular ocean views and open sky, follow the summit trail and take in panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula, Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands.
The Flight Path at Victoria Airport: Located around the perimeter of the pastoral Victoria International Airport, enjoy a bike, hike or stroll and enjoy the natural beauty of the Saanich Peninsula. The Flight Path is punctuated with intriguing pit stops, complete with interesting feature signs. It’s an educating experience about the various historical significance of the airport and its surrounding land!
