(This story is sponsored by Comox Valley Tourism)

Midway up the east coast of Vancouver Island, Comox Valley is embraced by both the sea and mountains, offering the charm of a small town with urban sophistication and taste.

From full-on adventure to blissful relaxation. Whether you hike on alpine meadows, hike or bike along a river or in pristine forests, or tee off at one of the many golf courses, there’s something for every adventurer. And if you’re not really keen on the outdoors, there’s still loads of laid-back dining, spas, shopping, and cultural experiences to check out too.

With more than 400 farmers and food producers in the region, Comox Valley’s diverse selection of restaurants exemplify farm-to-fork and tide-to-table culinary traditions, with menus featuring the freshest of seasonally local ingredients.

Cumberland, may be the smallest community in the valley, but its extensive trail network makes it one of BC’s renowned mountain biking meccas that draw riders from all over the world. The village boasts a storied past as a mining community that’s been transformed into a hub of outdoor recreation.

Across the water, Comox embodies island living at its best: boutique shopping, quaint cafes, oceanside activities, and a tantalizing array of award-winning restaurants. And the nine acres of breathtakingly landscaped waterfront green space at Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park should not be missed.

Just a short drive west is Courtenay, a community best known for its assortment of locally owned shops and abundance of award-winning restaurants, but it’s also known for its street markets and events. As the largest urban centre in the region, it effortlessly combines city amenities with coastal charm.

The Comox Valley makes for a perfect weekend getaway location or a central Vancouver Island hub for longer explorations to the region. From alpine to ocean, the valley had you next adventure covered.

For more information go to experiencecomoxvalley.ca.