Tuesday June 21, Crofton, BC

Woke to the sun pouring in and it was so special to sit outside over breakfast and listen to the water. For a coast that is a surfing paradise, there were just gentle waves. Somehow we were a bit slow getting going, and by the time we had a chat with our neighbours Steve & Linda, and Donna and Wayne a good part of the morning had disappeared. Anyway we took the coast road north to Port Renfrew, a windy and quite lumpy road through the forest, but very pretty. The lupins are just starting to flower, lining the road with blue in places, but didn’t stop for photos today.

We had heard about Botanical Beach at Port Renfrew where huge tidal pools are carved out of the limestone by the waves. It was low tide so we hiked several k’s to the beach through the forest. The sea mist was hanging around the coast further south, but the beach was in sun, really enjoyed poking around and climbing over the rocks. Witta, you will be pleased to know that the new polariser worked a treat.

Meandered around the small town and wharf area before stopping for a lunch break beside the estuary, then it was East across the island. The road has only just recently been sealed and it is mainly used by the logging trucks, and in fact it is the largest area of farmed forestry we have seen in all our travels. We understand a large proportion of the island is in fact in forestry. Thought we might stop the night at Lake Cowichan but it didn’t appeal so continued on another 40 km’s to the East Coast and saw that Crofton had a camp on the water. Feel we have landed on our feet, with a spot right on the waters edge and lots of boating activity including the ferry that services Salt Spring Island. It is still not school holidays so we are enjoying a not having crowds of people around in the camping grounds. And Ian is a very happy camper….they supply free firewood, ready to be split. We now have every available spare space in the van full of firewood. ‘

Tonight we joined our neighbours, Lois and Rex for a few drinks, no chance to feel lonely. They were most helpful with ideas for places to visit and stay around the island.