Girls Fall Getaway: A Foodie Escape

Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and Nanoose Bay offer a delightful mix of charming seaside towns, sandy beaches, forested trails, and unique independent restaurants that perfectly complement each town’s character. For me, it was the ultimate fall weekend girls’ getaway—a gastronomic adventure that required multiple daily walks! —Michelle Hopkins

Stay: It had been a few years since I last stayed at the award-winning Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, and I was thrilled to return to this magical forested retreat. Recently, the resort underwent substantial renovations, including updates to its ocean-view guestrooms and the addition of four cedar barrel saunas on the spa patio, creating an even more serene experience.

Gaelic for “House by the Sea,” Tigh-Na-Mara spans 22 acres with towering arbutus and fir trees bordering a sandy beachfront facing the Strait of Georgia. The resort offers spa bungalows, rustic log cottages, and newly renovated ocean-view suites. My spacious ocean-view suite blended rustic wood-beam charm with modern comforts, featuring warm tones and breathtaking waterfront views that set the tone for true relaxation.

Farm-to-Table Eats and Drinks: The local culinary scene here is a playground for epicureans. Each restaurant I visited showcased seasonal ingredients from local farmers, growers, and producers.

The French Press Coffee Roasters is celebrated for its roasted coffee, artisan scones, and in-house baked goods. As a winner of the Golden Bean North America (the world’s largest coffee roasting competition), I knew I was in for a smooth cup of java. I paired my coffee with a healthy, delicious avocado toast.

That evening, I dined fireside at Cedars Restaurant & Lounge at Tigh-Na-Mara. The menu puts a contemporary twist on regional and international dishes. My baked lingcod tacos with lime crema were flavorful and flaky. Paired with a Mission Hill Reserve Merlot, I lingered by the fire for hours. A casual yet elegant dining experience, reservations are recommended.

For a truly enchanting winter wonderland experience, I was fortunate enough to be invited to dine in one of the three Beach Club Resort’s Winter Dome Dining. Inside the private translucent snow dome, decorated in holiday-themed décor and equipped with heaters to take off the chill of the cool evening, I was offered the choice of two appetizers, three entrees and two desserts.  ($85 per person/wine pairing is $35 per person). With the sound of the waves lapping against the rocks as my backdrop, I began with the whipped Little Qualicum feta, before going for the smoked sablefish and finally the irresistible hazelnut bourbon maple tart. This was a truly memorable gastronomic adventure.

Nestled inside the Qualicum Beach Inn with of a view of the ocean, the Qualicum Beach Café is a staple in this city. The popular West coast inspired café recently welcomed executive chef, Red Seal Nate Catto, who offered me a sneak peak at the new December menu. Heavily influenced by local fresh sustainable fare from local purveyors, each dish infused seasonal ingredients with dishes that were as enticing to look at as they were delicious to eat.

In Nanoose Bay, Rusted Rake Brewing impressed with its funky vibe and locally sourced menu. The West Coast toast, served on house-made focaccia with smashed avocado, smoked salmon, shallots, and crispy capers, was a standout. I left with a six-pack of their award-winning craft beer.

The recently opened Nanoose Bay Café wowed me with its Pan-Asian-influenced menu and coastal ambiance. My poke bowl, featuring marinated albacore tuna, baby shrimp, and butternut squash in a ginger soy dressing, was a perfect balance of flavors.

Dip & Dine: The Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara recently earned top rankings for its spa experiences. The Grotto mineral pools, surrounded by rock formations, are a sanctuary for the senses. After a refreshing soak, I enjoyed a nine-course meal at the Treetop Tapas & Grill. Highlights included the winter kale salad, butternut squash soup, and beef bourguignon.

Exploring the Outdoors: After indulging in culinary delights, long walks and hikes were a must. The resort borders Rathtrevor Beach, part of Rathtrevor Provincial Park. I explored the quiet stretch of white sandy beach, rugged trails, and forested parkland daily.

On my way home, I stopped at Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Park, home to towering Douglas firs and Western Red Cedars, some over 800 years old. It’s one of Vancouver Island’s most awe-inspiring natural attractions.

Getting There: Take BC Ferries from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (two-hour sailing) or Horseshoe Bay Terminal (1.5-hour sailing) to Nanaimo, followed by a short drive north to Parksville.