Farms & Gardens
A mild, coastal marine climate and an abundance of rich, fertile soil makes the Comox Valley a farmers' and gardeners' paradise. Environment Canada describes the Comox Valley as having the "longest autumn" in Canada which makes for quite an annual harvest celebration !
Farms
The Comox Valley is an agricultural hotspot with over 119 farms covering 30,000 acres, which is 30% of the active farmland on Vancouver Island. Many local farms welcome tours and visitors as well as u-pick opportunities for the 'farmer at heart'.
In addition to orchards, nurseries, dairy and vegetable farms, the valley also has growers who specialize in organic meat, poultry and produce, as well as exotic delicacies such as emu, wasabi, soy, wild mushrooms and fallow deer venison.
A variety of petting zoos feature baby chicks, cheeky goats, potbelly pigs and other domestic animals. Some offer pony rides and camping adventures for kids and families as well.
From May through October, visit the Comox Valley Farmers' Market to shop for fresh, organic and specialty products. Perch on a bale of hay, sip a delicious cup of coffee, nibble on some home-baked goodies, and enjoy live entertainment.
Expereince the annual Fall Fair with exhibitions, competition, food and fun for all ages at the Comox Valley Exhibition Grounds.
Gardens
People in the Comox Valley take pride in their gardens and it is possible to enjoy the colors and foliage simply by walking or driving around.
Public access gardens include the Filberg Park in Comox, a nine-acre, landscaped heritage property where the annual Filberg Festival is held, and Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens, where cedar bark trails lead you through a unique showcase of 3000 rhododendrons and companion plants in a serene and natural setting. Anderton Therapeutic Gardens offers visitors a relaxing experience for the mind, sprit and body and opportunities for hands on activities.
The historic Village of Cumberland features beautiful herb and flower gardens at #6 Memorial Mine Park and an annual garden tour that is growing each year. Traditional Chinese and Japanese plants and trees can be found through the Village and her surrounding area, a shadow of the significant ethnic communities that once made Cumberland their home.
Garden lovers should also catch the annual Denman Island Home & Garden Tour in June and the Hornby Island Home, Garden & Studio Tour in July. The magical setting of these Islands seems to encourage the gardening spirit within!
