July 28th, 2005
WE'RE GOIN' TO BOWEN
Bowen Island: our secret weekend getaway. Er, secret until now, that is.
morning
Take the 20-minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay, sitting on the top deck and waking up to the gorgeous scenery and views of the amazing waterfront houses in West Vancouver.
Park and walk up the road to Artisan Square, where you'll find beautiful coffees (served properly on a tray with a glass of water) at Cocoa West. Note to self: drop by later for gelato and a box of organic chocolates to take home.
After cruising the galleries and shops all within 5 minutes' walk of the ferry docks, pickup picnic supplies at the Ruddy Potato Whole Foods Market in the Village Square or drive to Alderwood Farm for specialty cured meats, salmon jerky and other portable treats.
afternoon
Take a leisurely stroll around Killarney Lake, stopping to picnic along the way on the pretty bridges and benches overlooking water lilies.
Paddle out into the calm bay with Bowen Island Kayaking, or if you're a keener, hike up Mount Gardner for the view.
Later, catch somerays at the oceanfront Crippen Park near the ferry, and cool off with beers on the deck of Doc Morgan's Marine Pub & Restaurant.
evening
Walk up the road for thin crust, wood-oven pizzas at Tuscany Restaurant, housed in a heritage building.
Then hop on the ferry back home, or stay for this Saturday's big event: The 13th Annual Bowen Island Dock Dance. Don't forget your jean jacket, now.
For ferry schedules:www.bcferries.com
For accommodation, events, and info: www.bowenisland.org
Bowen Island, 604-947-9434
Artisan Square, www.artisansquare.com
Bowen Island Kayaking, 604-947-9266, www.bowenislandkayaking.com
Cocoa West Chocolatier, 604-947-2996, www.cocoawest.com
Doc Morgan's Marine Pub & Restaurant, 604-947-0808
The Ruddy Potato Wholefoods Market, 604-947-0998, www.ruddypotato.com
Tuscany Restaurant, 604-947-0550, www.tuscanypizza.com
