spring

To show the park
Apr25

Little Qualicum Falls: Nature’s Symphony

Nestled amid the lush landscapes of Vancouver Island, Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts.  To explore its enchanting realms. A haven of cascading waterfalls, meandering trails, and pristine wilderness, this park offers a serene escape into the heart of nature. Lace up your hiking boots, breathe in the crisp forest air, and embark on a journey through the trails to witness the captivating beauty that awaits in this provincial gem. Little Qualicum Falls: Nature’s Symphony.

The star attractions of Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park are undoubtedly the waterfalls. As you embark on the well-maintained trails, the rhythmic sound of rushing water guides you toward the first cascade. The Lower Falls, with its dynamic flow and moss-covered rocks, provides a picturesque introduction to the park’s natural wonders. Visitors often find themselves drawn to the water’s edge, captivated by the mesmerizing dance of liquid crystal.

Continuing along the trails, the path leads to the Middle Falls, where the energy of the water intensifies, creating a cascade that invites contemplation. Here, the lush surroundings frame the falls, creating a postcard-worthy scene that showcases the harmonious marriage of water and wilderness. Photographers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking moments of quiet reflection will find the Middle Falls a captivating destination.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Little Qualicum Falls Park Map 

So, what are you waiting for? Load up the car and the Family and head out for an experience of a lifetime! 

Share your favourite experiences at the Little Qualicum Falls and come visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season, 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? 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

 

 

 

To show the place in the description
Mar15

Cathedral Grove: A Majestic Sanctuary of Ancient Giants

A short drive from the quaint communities of Parksville and Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, unveils a place of wonder and reverence: Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. This natural sanctuary is home to a congregation of ancient giants. Towering Douglas fir and red cedar trees that have witnessed centuries of changing seasons. Telling tales of resilience, survival, and the timeless beauty of the temperate rainforest. Cathedral Grove: A Majestic Sanctuary of Ancient Giants

As you enter Cathedral Grove, the air becomes infused with a palpable sense of antiquity.  Towering trees, with their colossal trunks and expansive canopies, create a living cathedral that inspires awe and admiration. The star attractions of this arboreal haven are the Douglas fir trees.  Some reaching heights of over 75 meters (250 feet), and the majestic red cedars, standing as sentinels of the ancient forest.

Walking through the grove, visitors are enveloped in a serene hush.  Broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant call of a bird. The forest floor, adorned with a carpet of ferns and moss, provides a soft underfoot experience. Inviting you to slow down and immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature’s cathedral.

One cannot help but feel a sense of humility in the presence of these ancient trees.  Some of which have stood tall for more than 800 years. Their weathered bark tells a story of resilience against the elements. Their towering height beckons visitors to crane their necks skyward, attempting to grasp the magnitude of these arboreal titans.

Cathedral Grove offers a network of well-maintained trails.  Allowing visitors to meander through the heart of this ancient forest. The trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, offering a gentle introduction to the wonders of the temperate rainforest. As you traverse the pathways, informational signs provide insights into the ecological significance of the forest. The forest educates visitors about the delicate balance that sustains this unique ecosystem.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts will find Cathedral Grove a treasure trove of visual delights. The play of light filtering through the dense canopy creates a mesmerizing dance of shadows and highlights.  Adding a dynamic element to the forest’s timeless beauty. The textures of the moss-covered trees and the intricate patterns in the bark provide endless opportunities for capturing the essence of this enchanted woodland.

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, Cathedral Grove serves as a vital educational resource. Fostering an understanding of the importance of preserving ancient forests. The park’s interpretive programs and guided walks offer visitors a chance to delve deeper into the ecological intricacies of the temperate rainforest and the role these ancient trees play in maintaining biodiversity.

Visiting Cathedral Grove is not just a nature excursion; it’s a pilgrimage to a living testament of time. It’s a journey that reconnects us with the natural world. Reminding us of our place within the intricate web of life. The sheer magnitude of the trees and the ancient wisdom they embody inspire a sense of awe and respect for the delicate ecosystems that sustain our planet.

Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is a sanctuary for the soul! Inviting all who venture within its bounds to witness the majesty of ancient giants and to reflect on the importance of preserving these living monuments for generations to come. It’s a destination that transcends the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the enduring beauty of nature and the profound interconnectedness of all living things.

Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park

Activities

MacMillan Park (Cathedral Grove) Map 

So, what are you waiting for? Load up the car and the kids and head out for an experience of a lifetime! 

Share your favourite experiences at the Cathedral Grove and come visit us at Breakaway this 2024 season, 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? 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

 

 

 

Rathtrevor Beach location Destination
Feb21

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

 

 

 

fruit picking okanagan
Apr30

The Okanagan:

Blossoms, Harvest Dates & Fruit Picking

 

Blossom & Harvest Date in Kelowna

Kelowna is at its most beautiful during blossom season. The fragrance of the blossoms fill the air, and their soft colours brighten not just the view, but moods too! Visitors come from near and far to catch sight of this natural masterpiece! 

 Let’s check Okanagan Fruit blossom dates:

  • Cherries: Mid-April to Early-May
  • Peaches: Mid-April to Early-May
  • Prunes/Plums: Late-April to Mid-May
  • Apricots: Early-April to Late-April
  • Pears: Late-April to Mid-May
  • Apples: Early-May to Late-May

If you want the best fruit, try to visit during their harvest season!

Let’s check Okanagan Fruit harvest dates:

  • Cherries: Early-July to Early-August
  • Peaches: Late-July to Early-September
  • Prunes/Plums: Mid-August to Mid-September
  • Apricots: Mid-July to Mid-August
  • Pears: Mid-August to Late-September
  • Apples: Mid-August to Late-October

*These charts are approximate dates.

Picking Fruit near Kelowna

The fruit-picking season typically begins at the end of June/beginning of July, with cherries being the first fruit available to pick. The season is finished by the end of October, with apples being the last fruit available. 

U-Pick is the freshest farm-to-table activity that allows visitors to harvest their own produce to enjoy on a picnic, to eat at your vacation rental, or take home with you. The following U-Pick farms are those close to our cottages.

In this orchard, apples are available throughout the year; apricots, cherries, nectarines and peaches are on July to August; pears are on July to August; plums are on August to September; berries depend on the type, and crop.

  • Gambell Farms: call (250) 766-4036 

A Variety of seasonal fruit and vegetables are available for U-pick on this farm.

  • Duggan Farms: call (250) 766-2628 

They have Asparagus, Strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, Peaches, Nectarines, Garlic, Corn, Tomatoes, and Herbs for U-Pick.

fruit picking orchard

 

Planning to visit Kelowna to experience its wonderful fruit paradise? Check out our selection of beautiful cottages and make the most of your trip to the Okanagan!  

 

Written by Natsumi Matsumoto