Cowichan Valley Loop from Mill Bay

Route Description for Cowichan Valley Loop from Mill Bay

Embark on the scenic Cowichan Valley Loop from Mill Bay bike ride straight from the Mill Bay Ferry Terminal.

Peddle along Mill Bay Road, which follows right along the waterside for pretty views. When the road ends, head right onto Lashburn Rd., where on the corner, you’ll spot Rusticana Coffee, in case you need a cup of joe.

Hop on the Trans-Canada Hwy bike path, getting off at Kilmalu Rd. on your right-hand side. Take the second left onto Telegraph Rd. From here, you’ll be cycling through serene farm land and past vineyards. If you’d like, feel free to stop for a wine tasting in a couple of places. The first winery you’ll pass is Enrico Winery, which is particularly loved by locals, as well as Damali Lavender & Winery further up ahead.

Continue to follow Telegraph Rd., passing charming farm shops and stands all the way, until you reach Cherry Point Rd. Turn right here, following the road along the water and up towards Cowichan Bay.

Once you arrive in town, head to the tip top point of the loop at Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, where you can walk out onto the beach, which is especially fun at low tide where the creatures of the sea can be discovered up close.

Head further into Cowichan Bay, which is a tiny town right on the sea. It is very scenic and touristy with lots of sea views and restaurants to keep you occupied.

When you’re ready, peddle out of town onto Cowichan Bay Rd., follow the road down towards Cobble Hill, passing plenty of wineries along the way in case you want a post-lunch tipple.

In Cobble Hill, you’ll find plenty of parks and nature reserves on your right in case you want to set out and explore by foot. You’ll also pass OLDE SCHOOL COFFEE, on your left, which sells delicious, freshly baked cookies and sweet lattes—plus they have outdoor picnic tables if you want to rest here.

Continue onto Shawnigan Lake Rd., which will take you into Shawinigan Lake town, which is a particularly picturesque area, with plenty of upscale restaurant options if you have yet to have lunch.

Once you are ready, head out of town again onto Shawnigan Lake-Mill Bay Rd. Follow it all the way back to the Trans-Canada Hwy., where you can retrace your bike route back to the ferry.