One of the perks of modern life is the ability to take your job with you wherever you go. For those of us who need only good wifi and an electrical outlet to connect with the working world, Campbell River offers a peaceful sanctuary with all of the mod cons of a larger city. Pack up your laptop and head north on Highway 19 to soak in three days of lush landscape and ocean views.
Day to Day
Day One: City & Forest
Room With a View
For a desk with a view, we recommend Driftwood by The Sea and their Premium One Bedroom Cottage. Watch the cruise ships pass by, witness deer nibbling in the garden, or take a walk along the water to get your creativity flowing. Located only a fifteen minute stroll from the downtown core, this comfortable cottage will provide you with everything you need for a quiet and productive work environment, including your own private patio, kitchenette, and complimentary wifi.
Stretch Your Legs
A six minute drive east, the Beaver Lodge Lands are a forested walking trail favoured by Campbell Riverites. In 1931, 1028 acres (416 hectares) of land was donated to the province by the Elk River Timber Company. Additional parcels have since been added for a total of 1285 acres (520 hectares). President of the Beaver Lodge Trust Society Sandra Milligan, calls it Campbell River’s “Stanley Park” due to its natural beauty and proximity to city life. Download a map of this extensive trail network here.
A popular starting point is to park at Island Grind on South Dogwood Street, then access the trails just south of the Hilchey Road traffic lights. Be sure to grab a treat and a delicious espresso coffee at Island Grind after your walk!
Lunctime!
With so many lovely lunch options, you could spend your whole morning daydreaming about where to order. A two minute drive south of your holiday home will lead you to Big Rock Garage, known for eastern flavours with a west coast flair. Try the Asian noodle salad or the fresh made lumpia with a delicious peanut sauce wrapped in a crepe.
Happy Hour
After working away solo tap into our community nightlife at the Riptide Marine Pub. Every day is happy hour from 2:30pm – 4:30pm, with drink and food specials to wet your whistle. The Riptide attracts local musical talent all over the Island, and its casual social atmosphere means your new best friend could be seated beside you at the bar.
Get To Know The Locals
Take a peek under the sea at the Discovery Passage Aquarium. Their signature Touch Tank allows children and adults alike to get up-close-and-personal with the fish and fauna who call the ocean home. As part of their ongoing conservation programs, these resident creatures are released back into nature at the end of each season.
Day Two: Land & Sea
Sitting Is Quitting
Give your body a powerful start to the day at Session Studio + Spin.Choose from yoga, pilates, barre, and sculpt classes for any age or stage of fitness ability, available at their Cedar Street studio above Healthy Way. Looking for a faster pace? Try a Spin Class at the Shoppers Row location, only a thirty minute walk or three minute drive from your base camp.
Tasty Treats
When the lunch bell rings, calm the storms of your hunger at Tempest Bistro on Shoppers Row. This restaurant is the newest kid on the block in the Campbell River dining scene, with a selection of fresh hot sandwiches and a daily soup offering that is sure to hit the spot.
Dinner and a Show
It’s time for another social caper, this time at SoCal Restaurant & Lounge in Willow Point. Featuring daily drink and food features, SoCal also specializes in live music and stand-up comedy. Have a look at their website to see what’s happening tonight, and consider reserving a table if they’re hosting a popular entertainer or guest!
Day Three: Land and Sea
Get Your Steps In
Today before you plug into your task list, take a stroll down the Rotary Seawalk to FoggDukker’s Coffee. This landmark is a local institution, serving up small-batch roasted coffee in a cute little canteen on the beach. Love the brew? Take home the beans! FoggDukkers packages up their product to-go, so you can sip on their sensational coffee long after you’ve moved on to your next port of call.
Tasty Treats
Wrap up your working holiday with a sunset cruise guided by Discovery West Adventures. Take in the breathtaking views of Discovery Pass as the sun sets behind Vancouver Island. Enjoy a leisurely ride up Seymour Narrows and around Quadra Island with a nod to the local marine life along the way! Hot drinks and warm blankets are included.
Save Time, Fly Direct
If you’re coming to Campbell River from the mainland, consider skipping the ferry and fly instead!
Campbell River Airport (YBL) is a popular destination with many regional airlines including Central Mountain Air, Cascadia, and Pacific Coastal Airlines.
While you’re at the airport, don’t miss out on the delicious home-cooked meals at the Fuel Up Cafe! Sybil and her team serve up all of the usual suspects in their cozy cafe, including take-home meals like lasagna and perogy.
