TCRR

The porpoise ballet that sometimes takes place in the bow wave of the ferry from Quadra to Cortes Island gives the first clue to the special nature of this magical island.

Boaters exploring Desolation Sound who seek the protected sanctuary of Gorge Harbour feel it when they pass under mysterious petroglyphs carved into the sheer rock walls of the narrow entrance by ancient travelers. In the centre of the island is a freshwater lake surrounded by improbable white sandy beaches.

This is Cortes Island, centered between the spectacular snow-covered peaks of the mainland mountain range and the rugged spine of northern Vancouver Island. Surrounded by clear water, covered by majestic forest, blessed by sunshine and a temperate climate, and certainly one of the most unique and interesting destinations to be found anywhere in North America.

The island’s central location at the top of Georgia Straight puts it right in the middle of a naturally occurring rain shadow, which protects it from Pacific storms. The result is higher than average sunshine in a region usually known for rain, warmer air, and water temperatures that make for great summertime swimming at Hague Lake, Smelt Bay Provincial Park, or on the sweeping sand beaches of Marina Island that are uncovered at low tide. From kayak to luxury yacht, boaters love it. The island is criss-crossed with hiking and biking trails, and the slower pace of life makes cycling on the island’s road system a perfect way to get around and discover the galleries, studios, roadside vegetable stands and restaurants that seem to pop up around every corner.

For more information please visit the links on this site or visit www.cortesisland.com