Fall might just be the best-kept secret on Vancouver Island—and nowhere captures the spirit of the season like Cowichan. While most travellers speed between Victoria and Nanaimo, those who linger discover a region bursting with colour, flavour and adventure.
Imagine misty mornings on forest trails, crisp afternoons spent paddling glassy lakes and evenings filled with local wine, harvest flavours and good company. In Cowichan, the shoulder season isn’t a slowdown; it’s an invitation to reconnect with nature, with friendly locals, cozy sweater weather and the quieter side of adventure.
Outdoor Adventures
With its mild coastal climate, Cowichan is a year-round playground for outdoor adventure. Hop on two wheels to explore more than 180 kilometres of trails, from easy scenic rides to thrilling downhill runs. Or slow the pace and plan a multi-day bikepacking trip—the perfect way to soak up autumn’s crisp air, golden light and vibrant colours.
Prefer to explore on your own two feet? Embrace the crisp air of a fall day by strolling along a forested trail or across the green of a golf course. Head out on the water and try your hand at fishing. Who knows, maybe you’ll catch your evening dinner. Nothing beats a freshly caught meal with a glass of local island wine.
Harvest Events
There truly is no better season to visit Cowichan’s wineries than the fall, when the vines turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red. You might be surprised to learn that this is one of the largest wine regions in BC, and so the harvest season offers peak wine and culinary experiences.
Fall foliage adds a romantic, cozy backdrop to outdoor adventures. The valleys, forests and riparian zones of the Cowichan region transform into a tapestry of amber, gold and rust—especially as the low autumn light filters through Garry oak meadows, vineyards and old-growth forest edges.
Seasonal events and markets breathe fresh life in vibrant communities. Cowichan’s fall isn’t just about its beauty; it’s about gathering, celebrating and sharing together. From farmers’ markets to harvest festivals, the region pulses with activity. The Miller + Co Fall Makers Market, open October 11, is vibrant in autumn—locals and visitors alike browse stalls overflowing with apples, root vegetables and handcrafted goods. Merridale’s Harvest Scavenger Hunt, artisan markets and other themed events like pumpkin picking, live music and theatre all bring the social energy of Cowichan front and centre.
Arts, Culture & Heritage
Cowichan is home to Indigenous peoples whose living culture and tradition add depth, meaning and tradition to the land. Fall is a special time to engage, when plants and harvests are in season and the landscape becomes a vessel for meaning. Quw’utsun (Cowichan) is rooted in the Hul’q’umi’num word “shquw’utsun” which means “to warm one’s back in the sun.”
Each year, Cowichan bursts into life with events and exhibits that highlight local talent and cultural narratives. The Weavers and More Show and Sale at Cowichan Community Centre from October 16 to October 18 offers a chance to view weaving or spinning demonstrations and shop handiwork from guild members. Exhibits like Creative Woodwork and Spirit of the Island at the Imagine That! gallery in Duncan showcase the region’s sculptural and island-inspired artworks.
Meanwhile, theatre-lovers can catch “Home to Roost” at the Chemainus Theatre Festival, a humorous and touching portrayal of family bonds.
Unique, Cozy Stays
Part of what makes Cowichan’s fall so special is how you can stay—intimate, warm and charming lodgings match the vibe of the season.
At The Tractor Shed Guest House at Emandare Vineyard, you’ll nestle into a peaceful abode overlooking vineyards and Somenos Lake. Hot tubs, front-deck views and a sizzling fireplace makes this ideal for cozy evenings. For a luxurious night, stay at Bird’s Eye View at Maple Bay, a one-bedroom ocean-view suite, where you can unwind with a sense of tranquility you can’t find elsewhere and settle in with a book and a glass of wine.
Fall is one of the most rewarding times to explore Vancouver Island, and the Cowichan region is where the magic of the shoulder season truly shines. This is the season when crowds thin, colours deepen and adventure takes on a more relaxed pace.
This article is sponsored by Tourism CowichanTourism Cowichan Society (TCS) is an industry-led destination management organization that supports and contributes to a sustainable future for tourism businesses in the region through data-informed, regional marketing campaigns, industry development and destination management.
READ MORE: Adventure, British Columbia, Partner Content
Kathryn Anderson is a travel and wellness expert who runs the award-winning travel blog coffeeandmascara.org as well as contributes to a variety of publications as a Freelance Journalist. This former Fitness Instructor shares expert advice on how to infuse balance into travelling so people can enjoy fun and fulfilling vacations without derailing their healthy lifestyle goals. As a Wellness Travel Coach, she empowers her clients to travel in a healthier way. She sits on the Board of Directors for the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association as the Social Media Chair. Follow her adventures on Instagram @misskatanderson.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
Adventure, Gear, Partner Content
Our field editor Ryan Stuart tested the best clothing for cold weather paddling.
Adventure, Gear, Partner Content
Don’t miss BLUETTI’s Fall Prime Day sale on power stations from Oct 7th to 10th!
Adventure, British Columbia, Partner Content, Ski and Snowboard
Discover your powder-perfect dream ski day in Nelson Kootenay Lake, BC.
Adventure, Ontario, Partner Content
Algoma is a beautiful area, and that beauty really intensifies when the colours explode into fall foliage
Adventure, Health and Wellness, Nova Scotia, Partner Content
Whether you’re a seasoned wellness enthusiast or just starting to explore new ways to feel your best, there’s something here for everyone.
Adventure, Gear, Partner Content
We review Northern Sun’s gear in the best Canadian testing ground: the Yukon.