Nature and wildlife
Although you may not be willing the leave the comfort of the cottage, there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy and get immersed in the beauty of the west coast. Below are a number of the more special locations.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Fairy Lake and Lizard Lake
Fairy Lake and Lizard Lake are two nearby swimming lakes, approximately 5km and 10km from Port Renfrew along the Gordon Main Road (towards Lake Cowichan). When the summer fog rolls in and the beach is chilly, it is not uncommon to find after the short run inland it is 10-15 degrees (Celsius) warmer ... beach weather! Locals and visitors alike enjoy the summer swimming. And yes, you can even search for lizards in Lizard Lake (actually red bellied newts)! A great place to go to have a picnic.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Botanical Beach
A 2.8 km loop trail from the parking lot leads to Botanical Beach and Botany Bay. There are tide pools and plenty opportunity to observe marine life including marine flora and fauna. This colourful intertidal zone includes red, purple and orange starfish and sea urchins, white gooseneck barnacles, blue mussels and green sea anemones and sea cucumbers. Coralline algae, periwinkles, chitons and sea stars can also be seen. It is best visited at minus tides. Be conscious that rogue waves can be large and dangerous.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Avatar Grove
The Avatar Grove and "Canada's Gnarliest Tree" were discovered by Ancient Forest Alliance activists in December, 2009. This magnificent forest is within the traditional territory of the Pacheedaht First Nation. Check it out for big trees and to experience the temperate rainforest. There is a great boardwalk trail but good balance and basic hiking experience is required in certain areas i.e. possible muddy sections, slippery roots or slopes, crossing over logs, etc. Please enjoy within your abilities.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Juan de Fuca Trail
Mystic Beach/Juan De Fuca Provincial Park is located on the west coast of southern Vancouver Island. Juan de Fuca Provincial Park offers scenic beauty, spectacular hiking, marine and wildlife viewing and roaring surf in its course along the Pacific coastline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This hiking area stretches along 47 kilometres of wild and beautiful rainforest coastline, cradled between Port Renfrew and Jordan River.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
The Red Creek Fir
According to the Ancient Forest Alliance the largest Douglas fir tree in the world grows only a 1 hour drive from Port Renfrew, BC. The Red Creek Fir measures 43.7 feet in circumference (14 feet in diameter), stretches 242 feet tall, with a crown spread of 75 feet. The tree is truly mammoth in size and is a must-see for big tree lovers. Along the trail there are also other large ciders, called the Three Sisters, that deserve a good look as well.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Mountain Lakes
Amongst the surrounding wilderness of Port Renfrew a number of forest lakes exist. Some are accessible by road whereas others require some trail hiking. Many of these lakes are secluded and quiet with no formal directions available. Additionally, it is best driven with vehicles with decent road clearance as some roads can be degraded by adverse weather. GPS waypoints can be provided for those wishing to test their navigational skills.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Three rivers and an ocean
Love water sports? The three river systems namely the Gordon River, San Juan and the Port of San Juan all meet at Port Renfrew making for a water lovers delight. Whether you love to kayak, canoe, SUP or surf there are plenty of water sport options available to you. The ocean water may be chilly, but the rivers are always clear and energising. Deep rock pools are a perfect place refreshing bathing in the summer whilst surrounded by the velvet forest.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
Wildlife
The wilderness surrounding Port Renfrew is home to a myriad of unique fauna. Aquatic wildlife such as seals, otters, orcas and beavers are commonly seen. The national parks and reserves are also home to black bears, cougars, wolves, mink. Rarities include humpback and grey whales, elk and deer. Although mammals abound the birdlife is spectacular with at least 117 species recorded in the area.
Photo by Rob Gubiani Photography
The West Coast Trail
The West Coast Trail is a world famous hike on a challenging trail. The 75 kilometre trail can start or end in Port Renfrew. The trail itself winds through forests, bogs slippery moss-covered ladders, climbing, repelling and beach treks. The trail passes old growth trees, waterfalls, streams and thick patches of deep mud. Along the coast, the trail includes sand and pebble beaches, headlands and exposed shelf and boulders at low tide. Full information and permit booking can be found at Parks Canada.