Bowen Island: A Hidden Gem in British Columbia

Bowen Island is a small island located in the Howe Sound of British Columbia, Canada. It is a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The island is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts community.

Attractions

There are many attractions on Bowen Island that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Killarney Lake: This is a beautiful lake that is perfect for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. There are also hiking trails around the lake that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Bowen Island Golf Club: This is a nine-hole golf course that is open to the public. It is located in a beautiful setting and offers a challenging game for golfers of all levels.
Artisan Square: This is a collection of studios and galleries that showcase the work of local artists. Visitors can browse through the shops and purchase unique handmade items.
Crippen Regional Park: This park is located in the heart of the island and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. It is a great place to spend a day with family and friends.
Bowen Island Pub: This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers a great selection of food and drinks, as well as live music on weekends.

Natural Wonders

Bowen Island is home to many natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Mount Gardner: This is the highest peak on the island and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. There are hiking trails that lead to the summit, which is a popular spot for picnicking.
Dorman Point: This is a scenic lookout that offers panoramic views of the Howe Sound. It is a great spot for watching the sunset.
Bridal Veil Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall that is located in a secluded area of the island. It is a great spot for a picnic or a swim.
Cape Roger Curtis: This is a rugged coastline that offers stunning views of the ocean. There are hiking trails that lead to secluded beaches and coves.

Festivals

Bowen Island is home to several festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Bowfest: This is a community festival that takes place in August. It features live music, food vendors, and a beer garden.
Artisan Square Market: This is a weekly market that takes place on Saturdays from May to September. It features local artisans selling handmade items.
Bowen Island Farmers' Market: This is a weekly market that takes place on Saturdays from May to October. It features local farmers selling fresh produce and other goods.

History

Bowen Island was first inhabited by the Squamish Nation, who used it as a summer hunting and fishing ground. The island was named after Rear Admiral James Bowen, who served in the Royal Navy in the 19th century.

The community was established in the late 1800s, when settlers began to arrive on the island. The first permanent resident was William Davies, who built a cabin on the island in 1872. The island was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1999.

Conclusion

Bowen Island is a hidden gem in British Columbia that is worth exploring. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts community. Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Bowen Island has something for everyone.

Sources

Bowen Island Municipality. (n.d.). About Bowen Island. Retrieved from https://www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/about-bowen-island
Bowen Island Tourism. (n.d.). Things to Do. Retrieved from https://www.tourismbowenisland.com/things-to-do
British Columbia Magazine. (2019, August 1). Bowen Island: A Hidden Gem. Retrieved from https://www.bcmag.ca/bowen-island-a-hidden-gem/
Explore BC. (n.d.). Bowen Island. Retrieved from https://www.hellobc.com/places-to-go/vancouver-coast-mountains/bowen-island
Hello BC. (n.d.). Bowen Island Golf Club. Retrieved from https://www.hellobc.com/things-to-do/golfing/bowen-island-golf-club
Vancouver Trails. (n.d.). Killarney Lake. Retrieved from https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/killarney-lake/