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Beaches

Rathtrevor Beach location Destination
Feb21

Rathtrevor Beach: A Hidden Gem on Vancouver Island  

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia no responses

Rathtrevor Beach: A Hidden Gem on Vancouver Island  

Are you feeling stressed out and in need of a break? Consider taking a trip to Rathtevor Beach!  This stunning beach is a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a range of surprising health benefits. Here are just a few reasons why spending time at Rathtevor Beach could be just what the doctor ordered: 

  1. Come Soak Up the Sun: Rathtevor Beach is known for its warm and sunny climate. This makes it the perfect place to soak up some Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, a strong immune system, and even improved mood.

  

  1. Get Moving: Whether swimming in crystal-clear waters or taking a stroll on the sand, spending time at Rathtevor Beach is a great way to get moving. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost energy levels, and even improve cognitive function.

  

  1. Breathe Easy: Are you ready for some sea air at Rathtevor Beach? The sea air is rich in negative ions, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce stress levels. Breathing in this fresh sea air can also help to clear your lungs and improve respiratory function. take a breath of fresh Sea air.

  

  1. Take time to Unwind and Relax: When you hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore has a soothing effect on the mind and body. Spending time at Rathtevor Beach can help to reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and even improve sleep quality.

  

  1. You can Boost Your Mental Health: If You like Spending time in nature it has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. The beautiful scenery, fresh sea air, and peaceful surroundings at Rathtevor Beach can all contribute to a sense of calm and well-being.

Rathtrevor Park Map

Activities

Parksville Qualicum Beach 

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Rathtevor Beach for a rejuvenating and health-boosting getaway! 

Share your favourite way that Rathtrevor Park benefits your health and come visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos @breakawayvacations for a chance to be featured!

Are you still looking to book your cottage getaway? Take a look at our amazing rentals and you can get in touch if you have any questions! We are always happy to help you book your amazing getaway! Call us today

 

 

 

Nov26

Whale Watching on Vancouver Island, BC: A Majestic Marine Safari

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Holidays, Luxury travel, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island no responses

Nestled off the southwestern coast of British Columbia, Vancouver Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, and one of its most breathtaking experiences is whale watching. With its diverse marine ecosystem, the island offers the chance to encounter a variety of whale species in their natural habitat. Let’s embark on a virtual marine safari to explore the magnificent whales that call the waters around Vancouver Island home.

1. Orcas (Killer Whales):
– These iconic black and white creatures are the stars of the show in these waters.
– The southern resident orcas are known for their unique family groups, each with distinct dialects.
– Witnessing orcas breach the surface or work together in hunting pods is a sight to behold.

2. Humpback Whales:
– Humpbacks are celebrated for their acrobatics, including jaw-dropping breaches.
– Their intricate songs, believed to be a form of communication, add to the wonder of encountering them.

3. Gray Whales:
– Catch a glimpse of gray whales during their annual migration, as they travel from their breeding grounds in Mexico to their Arctic feeding grounds.
– These gentle giants are recognized by their mottled, barnacle-covered skin.

4. Minke Whales:
– Minke whales are the smallest baleen whales and are often seen in the region.
– Their elusive nature adds an element of surprise to any whale-watching tour.

5. Pacific White-Sided Dolphins:
– While not a whale, these playful dolphins are frequent companions during whale-watching trips.
– Their striking black-and-white markings and acrobatic displays make for entertaining sightings.

6. Fin Whales:
– As the second-largest whale species globally, fin whales are known for their sleek appearance and streamlined bodies.
– Although they are not the most common sighting, their presence is always a thrill.

7. Blue Whales:
– The largest animal on the planet, the blue whale is a rare but awe-inspiring sight in the region.
– Their sheer size and the breathtaking blue-gray coloration of their skin leave a lasting impression.

Vancouver Island’s marine environment provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and witness the majesty of these magnificent whales. Whale-watching tours offer not only the chance to observe these creatures up close but also promote the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. As you plan your next adventure, consider embarking on a whale-watching excursion around Vancouver Island, where every glimpse of these gentle giants is a testament to the beauty of our natural world.

Aug23

Exploring Vancouver Island

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Holidays, Road Trip, Travel, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island no responses

Vancouver Island is a large island located in the southwestern part of British Columbia, Canada. It is separated from the mainland of British Columbia by the Strait of Georgia to the east and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the south. The island is known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities.

Key features of Vancouver Island include:

  1. Natural Beauty: The island is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and majestic mountains. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and whale watching.
  2. Victoria: The capital city of British Columbia, Victoria, is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It is known for its British colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and a charming waterfront. The famous Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum are popular attractions in Victoria.
  3. Tofino and Ucluelet: These coastal communities on the western side of Vancouver Island are known for their stunning beaches, surfing opportunities, and access to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The area is also famous for its storm watching during the winter months.
  4. Nanaimo: A city located on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is known for its harbor, waterfront walkways, and the Nanaimo Bar (a popular Canadian dessert).
  5. Wildlife: The island is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. The island’s proximity to the ocean and its varied ecosystems contribute to its diverse animal and plant life.
  6. Outdoor Activities: Vancouver Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park (the oldest provincial park in British Columbia), fishing in its numerous lakes and rivers, and exploring the many trails and parks.
  7. Island Communities: Beyond the larger cities, Vancouver Island is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and attractions.

Overall, Vancouver Island is a popular destination for both residents and tourists alike, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. It’s a place where you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature and the vibrancy of local communities.

Aug09

Sandcastle Building Ideas

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Holidays, Vancouver Island no responses

Building sandcastles at the beach can be a fun and creative activity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a simple sandcastle, along with some ideas to take your sandcastle-building skills to the next level:

Basic Sandcastle:

  1. Choose Your Location: Find a spot on the beach with slightly damp sand, as it holds its shape better.
  2. Gather Tools: Bring along some buckets, shovels, and plastic cups for shaping and molding the sand.
  3. Create a Base: Fill a large bucket with damp sand, pack it down, and then flip it over to create the base of your sandcastle.
  4. Build Towers: Fill smaller buckets or plastic cups with damp sand, pack it, and then flip them over to create towers. Place these towers on the corners of the base.
  5. Add Walls: Create walls by packing more sand around the towers. You can use your hands to shape and smooth the sand.
  6. Carve Details: Use smaller tools like sticks or straws to carve details like windows, doors, and crenellations.
  7. Decorate: Add seashells, pebbles, or seaweed as decoration. Be mindful of the environment and don’t disturb the natural ecosystem.
  8. Moat: Dig a shallow moat around your sandcastle. You can use a small cup to pour water into the moat, creating a protective barrier for your castle.
  9. Tide Awareness: Remember that the tide can wash away your creation, so build closer to the shore during low tide if you want your sandcastle to last longer.

Advanced Sandcastle Ideas:

  1. Sand Sculptures: Instead of a traditional castle, create elaborate sculptures like animals, mythical creatures, or famous landmarks.
  2. Multiple Levels: Build multi-level castles with ramps, staircases, and bridges connecting different sections.
  3. Tunnels: Create tunnels and archways within your sandcastle for added complexity.
  4. Incorporate Water: Create channels or waterways within your sandcastle design, allowing water to flow through and around your creation.
  5. Team Effort: If you’re with a group, have each person or team build their own unique section of the sandcastle, then connect them to make a collaborative masterpiece.
  6. Beach Landscape: Design a whole landscape, including hills, valleys, and more, incorporating various elements like sand, water, and vegetation.
  7. Themed Castles: Build sandcastles inspired by your favourite movies, books, or historical periods.
  8. Drip Castles: Use a bucket to create a tall, pointed tower. Slowly pour wet sand over the tower to create a drip effect.

Remember, the key to building impressive sandcastles is practice and creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment, learn from your mistakes, and have fun while you’re at it!

What will your sand castle look like?

Dec14

Holiday Cookie Recipes

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Food and drink, Holidays, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island, Winter no responses

Nothing says holidays like over indulging in cookies, or coming home to the smell of freshly baked cookies. Treat yourself this year.. literally!

Our home away from home offer beautiful kitchens that are ready to be baked in, stop by the store for a few ingredients and you are ready to bake. At Breakaway Vacation homes the smell of your freshly baked cookies will linger throughout your stay and bring joy and happiness to your stay. Celebrate the holiday with us this year, we offer houses ranging from sizes at 3 locations including Tanglewood, Qualicum Landing, and Otter Bay – book now and relax later!

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
½ tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
¼ cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup coarse sugar or granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
1 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
¼ cup vegetable oil
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (for the coating)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup jam, raspberry or strawberry
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1-2 tablespoons almond milk
Realm Local Food
Jun28

Realm Food Co – Places to eat near Tanglewood

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Food and drink, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island no responses

Looking for a taste of local food during your Tanglewood stay? We have loads of tips on local treats and eats, and Realm Food Co is high on our list! Realm is a great place from breakfast, to on the go bites, tacos, sandwiches and so much more!

Located minutes from Tanglewood in Parksville is Realm is a great pick for a meal out. All the items on the menu are sourced locally right from Vancouver Island, and we all know you can’t beat the taste of local. Check out Realm Food Co’s website to see all the items on the menu and explore more about them.

A couple of our favourites on the menu are:

Ramen (vegan options available) – poached egg, bone broth, carrot, cabbage, kale, wild mushrooms, rice noodles, nori, bone broth, chili-hoisin gastrique choice of chicken, pork or tempeh

West Coast Bowl – seared albacore tuna, avocado, carrot, beet, sprouts, cabbage, marinated kale, rice, nori, chipotle-basil aïoli, ponzu sauce

Local Sandwich -basil chèvre, marinated tomato, cucumber, apple-thyme slaw, greens, sprouts, turmeric aioli

Looking to bring the deliciously fresh food back to your Tanglewood Beach Home patio – Realm offers take out so you can bring it back to your beautiful beach home for the entire family to enjoy.

Haven’t booked your island vacation yet? Make sure to check out our rentals page to see all that we offer – and get in touch if you have any questions at all!

Eat Local, Eat Fresh!

Pender Island Attractions
May21

Pender Island Attractions: 10 Things to See & Do

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Family Activities, Vacation Homes, Vancouver Island no responses

There’s a lot to love about Pender Island. Here are some of our favourite Pender Island attractions, sites, and hot spots.   

The Beaches  

Pender Island is divided into the North and South islands and both have plenty of beaches to choose from. Try Beaumont Marine Park or Brooks Point Regional Park (south island) or Roe Lake, Medicine Beach Sanctuary, or Roesland Gulf National Park (north island). Waterfront hot spots vary across the island so you might find rocky shore, silky smooth sands, or winding marina docks. 

Sea Star Estate Farm and Vineyards  

If you know anything about B.C., you know that we love our vineyards and wineries. Pender Island has one of its own: Sea Star Estate Farm and Vineyards. Their tasting room is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 PM. They were featured by SIP Northwest as one of the “9 Wineries to Visit Before You Die”.

The Parks  

Pender Island offers many parks and natural areas for the wilderness loving traveler. Check out Greenburn Lake or Bridge Trail park on the south island; or, try Community Park or Roe Lake on the north island. You can also access many areas of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, which has touchpoints on both island halves and spand across 15 islands total!

Mount Norman  

Mount Norman Park spans over 100 hectares of land covered by plains, forests, and mountain slopes. Mt Norman is actually a part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, as well. You can trek to the mountain summit (44 metres/800 feet) for an unparalleled view of the vistas and waters.

Kayak Rentals   

Pender Island is a great tourist spot for water sports like kayaking and canoeing. Check out Pender Island Kayak Adventure or Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions. These venues offer hosted tours, day trips, or DIY equipment rentals. Any waterway adventure has the potential to expose you to B.C. wildlife like eagles, sea otters, and whales.

The Hiking Trails   

Pender Island has plenty of hiking trails to choose from with varying degrees of difficulty and length. Do some research on the paths before you depart. You can try Beaumont Trail, Greenburn Lake Look Out, William Walker Trail, as well as smaller local hidden gems.

Pender Island Golf & Country Club  

Pender Island Golf & Country Club is very close to Otter Bay and has been in operation since 1945. This 9 hole public golf course is open year round and the property includes access to a well stocked golf shop and the El Faro lounge. You can also book golf lessons with trainers on site.

The Coffee Shops  

Pender Island shirks big chain venues in favour of small, locally owned cafes like Vanilla Leaf Bakery Cafe and Slow Coast Coffee. Wherever you are staying will have its secret spots and local favourites. Be sure to ask around or do a bit of online searching to see what’s around.

The Summer Markets   

Both North Pender Island and South Pender Island have their own major farmers’ markets. Up north, keep a look out for the aptly-named Farmer’s Market on Pender Island; down south, look for Nighthawk Farm Farmers’ Market. Both have a wide variety of local goods.

Breakaway Vacations Cottages

Big, sterile hotel chains are so blah. As a tourist hub, Pender Island offers visitors a broad choice of where they want to say. For example, a luxury lakeside vacation cottage with access to a pool, BBQs, outdoor seating, and firepits. Contact us at Breakaway Vacations and ask about Pender Island vacation rental availability for summer.  

What Pender Island attractions are you most excited for? Let us know so we can help you plan the perfect getaway.

BC nature scenery by water
Aug19

Why Travel B.C.? 7 Things We Love About British Columbia

Beaches, Blog, British Columbia, Okanagan, Vancouver Island no responses

Thinking about visiting B.C.? We don’t blame you! Here are just a few of the things that we love about beautiful British Columbia.

1. The Hiking Trails

From the Okanagan to the Island, B.C. has hiking trails for all ages and skill levels. Take a family-friendly meander through a wooden grove or challenge yourself with a steep uphill climb! Check out our blog for suggestions of some hikes nearest you. On the blog homepage, search: “Hikes.”

2. National Parks

B.C. is home to some of the most gorgeous national parks in all of Canada. You can birdwatch, picnic, or site-see to your heart’s content. Don’t forget to call or email ahead to ensure that they are open to the public during your day/hour of choice. Make a day trip to the nearest one—you won’t regret it!

3. Budget Travel

B.C. has a perfect blend of flashy cities and small, community-centric towns. That means that no matter what your budget is, you can find somewhere to stay. Also: B.C. has a moderate climate year-round, meaning that you can fill your days with cost-free outdoor activities.

4. The Beaches

B.C. borders the Pacific Ocean and has many lakes and ponds that are safe for a dip. No matter where you stay, you’ll be able to find a waterside spot to soak up some sun. Okanagan Lake is a must-see if you are vacationing in the Kelowna and Vernon area.

5. Tourist Friendly

Not only is B.C. very multicultural but they have a thriving tourism industry. That means everywhere you go you will feel welcomed and taken care of. Our doors are always open to newcomers.

6. Wine County

B.C. wineries have a long history in the province, where the warm weather allows orchards of all sorts to flourish in the summer and autumn months. Book a wine tour to learn more or ask around for the best local picks.

7. Farmers’ Markets

Wine grapes aren’t the only produce that grows across B.C. You’ll find plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables available at any local farmers’ market and even many varieties in common grocery stores, too.

Have we convinced you to try a B.C. vacation? Contact us for details on the best B.C. vacation rentals in the Okanagan Valley and on Vancouver Island. We welcome the opportunity to set you up in a modern, personable cottage or abode of your choosing.

As always: travel safe!

woman swimming in deep water
Aug06

Beach Safety for B.C. Summer Trips: 5 Quick Tips

Beaches, Blog, Okanagan, Vancouver Island no responses

One of the best parts of visiting B.C. during the summer is the warm weather and the sandy beaches. Fun must go hand-in-hand with safety, though, so here are some waterside tips for families to follow.

1. Check for Flags & Signs

Some beaches use flags and signs to denote location-specific warnings, like hazardous areas or dangerous marine life in the area. Any on-duty lifeguard will be able to explain these signs to you in they are unclear. If there is no lifeguard on duty, a quick Google search or a call/visit to a Visitors Information Centre should do the trick.

2. Apply and Reapply Sunscreen

Obviously, UV rays can damage our very sensitive skin and even lead to melanoma and other permanent damage. Water, sweat, and physical activity can rub or wash away applied sunscreen throughout the day so you can’t just set it and forget it. Reapply any time you come out of the water and/or every 2 hours. You should also put sunscreen on 30 minutes prior to sun exposure to ensure it’s properly absorbed by the skin beforehand.

3. Maintain a Safe Distance From Others

Not only does this stop the spread of infectious diseases but it also prevents accidents and is proper beach etiquette. If you can, maintain a safe 6-foot distance from others. Try visiting the beach during “off hours”, like while locals are at work, or hunting for more spacey spots to sit, even if they are farther from the water.

4. Know Some Swimming Basics

Make sure everyone in your group knows basic swimming and water safety. At the very least, they should be able to dog paddle or hold their breath and float on their back. Swim in pairs (or more) for maximum safety. Younger children should wear floating devices or lifejackets if they are at risk. If you are a weak swimmer, keep an open water float nearby.

5. Keep Near to a Source of Shade

Whether it’s a tree or a beach umbrella you brought along, a source of shade is important to protect against burns as well as sun sickness/stroke. Be sure you are drinking plenty of water, too, which will also help against the latter. Heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and sun poisoning are always a risk when it’s bright and hot outside.

Keep these beach and swimming tips in mind and ask a lifeguard in the area if you need more assistance. No lifeguard? Defer to the strongest swimmer in the family, watch out for one another, and travel (swim) in groups. Swim safe and have fun!

No beach plans yet? Maybe it’s because you haven’t found the right vacation spot yet. Contact us to book one of our cottages or rental properties for your family vacation.

Apr03

The Beaches of Pender Island

Beaches, Blog no responses

The Beaches of Pender Island

 Getting ready for your Pender Island getaway?  Well, here’s a list of beaches – rocky and sandy – to dip your toes into! There’s nothing like a warm summer’s day spent by the water.

 

  • Mortimer Spit:

    Accessible sandy beach, north of the bridge that connects North & South Island. This is the best location for swimming and sunbathing.  Most of Pender Island shoreline is rocky, so make the most of this sandy bay.

  • Medicine Beach:

    On North Pender Island, at the far end of Bedwell Harbour, you will find Medicine Beach & Nature Sanctuary.  As well as the beach which is perfect for taking walks, there is also a salt water marsh behind (one of the few left in the area) which is a nature sanctuary.

  • Stanley Point:

    Small but sweet, the beach at Stanley Point has great rock formations and brilliant views of the Swanson Channel.

  • Gowlland Point:

    For an exceptionally good viewpoint, head over to Gowlland Point on South Pender Island. There is a pebble beach here as well as lovely walks around the grassy headlands.  Expect to see beautiful views of Mt. Baker and the San Juan Islands!

  • Beaumont Marine Park:

    Beaumont Marine Park is fantastic for hiking and boating. There are many trails to choose from, and you will be rewarded with a sandy beach at the end.  Since this is a marine park, it is the ideal place to sit a while and watch for seals, otters and other animals.

 

Do you have a favourite Pender Island beach that’s not on this list?  Let us know, and we’ll be sure to check it out!

Haven’t booked your accommodation yet?  Take a look at our magical Pender Island vacation homes and reserve your dates today!

 

Written by Hannah Poaros

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