Duncan, British Columbia, is a small city located on the east coast of Vancouver Island in the Cowichan Valley. With a population of just over 5,000 people, Duncan is a popular travel destination for those seeking a laid-back, small-town atmosphere surrounded by a lush natural landscape. Duncan is known as the “City of Totems” for its collection of nearly 80 totem poles that are located throughout the city.
The nearby Cowichan Valley offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors. In the summer, the area is great for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. In the winter, visitors can go snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding. There are also plenty of opportunities to experience local culture, with events like the Cowichan Celtic Festival, the Cowichan Valley Arts Council’s Art Walk, and the Duncan Farmers Market.
Duncan is also home to a number of wineries and craft breweries, and is the perfect place to sample the flavours of the region. Shopping enthusiasts can explore the downtown area for unique boutiques and art galleries. After a day of exploring, visitors can take in some of the city’s live entertainment, or take a leisurely stroll along the Cowichan River.
Duncan is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful getaway in a rural setting. With its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and numerous outdoor activities, Duncan is sure to provide visitors with a memorable vacation.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Duncan: This vibrant area is in the heart of the city and has a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as easy access to public transportation.
2. North Cowichan: This rural area offers beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
3. Cowichan Bay: This small fishing village provides stunning views, seafood restaurants, and access to the ocean.
4. Crofton: This small village is close to the ocean and offers a quiet atmosphere with plenty of recreational activities.
5. Quamichan: This area is known for its rolling hills and rural scenery, as well as its popular golf courses.
1. Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre: This centre is dedicated to preserving and sharing the culture and history of the Cowichan Tribes and other First Nations. It features a museum, art gallery, and interactive exhibits.
2. Cowichan River Provincial Park: This park is home to a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. It also offers camping facilities.
3. Somenos Marsh Wildlife Reserve: This reserve is a great spot to observe a variety of birds, including ducks, geese, herons, and swans.
4. Cowichan Valley Museum & Archives: This museum features exhibits on the area's history, including the region's First Nation peoples, early settlers, and the fishing industry.
5. Cowichan Bay: This picturesque spot is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and whale watching. The village of Cowichan Bay offers shopping, dining, and other amenities.
1. The Temple Street Eatery: Located in downtown Duncan, this unique eatery serves up fusion dishes with an Asian flair. Enjoy stir fry noodles, sandwiches, and rice bowls.
2. The Donut Monster: This local favorite serves up freshly made donuts, muffins, and croissants. Enjoy your morning coffee with a delicious pastry.
3. The Cowichan River Lodge: This restaurant specializes in locally sourced seafood dishes, such as their famous wild salmon and prawn dishes.
4. Kismet Café: This cozy café is the perfect spot to grab a quick lunch. Enjoy sandwiches, salads, and soups made with locally sourced ingredients.
5. The Old Firehouse Wine Bar: Enjoy a relaxed evening at this cozy wine bar. Sample a variety of local wines while snacking on artisan cheeses and charcuterie.