Monday 20 August 2012

Show & shine...

Saturday, and Barry and Dave (a local cycling club mate) lead us the first dozen miles south, taking rail trails and back roads, then safely onto long Cedar Road.
As always we are surrounded by fir forest, as we pass the entrance to native Indian reserves and reach little Ladysmith by lunch. We had wondered why so many classic cars had been passing us, and discover them now, lining the streets. It is the 7th annual "Show and Shine". The main street is closed to traffic with crowds admiring the polished Chevis, Cadillacs and Thunderbirds (& our 2 Thorn tourers!).


Next on a coast road to the small town of Duncan and a little way up the Cowichan Valley. Our hosts here have had a hectic day as their marvellous garden has been open to the public, showcasing Permaculture methods. Their typical white painted timber house is in a breathtaking setting surrounded by forest, under a mountain backdrop.
In the morning we wi-fi in Duncan before heading down to Mill Bay for the ferry to the peninsula where Victoria the Capitol of British Columbia sits. On the way we pass lots of vineyards and a lavender farm. Being a Sunday cheery groups of cyclists whizz past. Waiting for the ferry we watch seals and a Belted Kingfisher.


Tour miles to date: 123

Location:Nanaimo to Duncan