As I’ve mentioned before, I prefer rides in the 35-50 mile range that take around 4 hours so instead of riding all the way to Courtenay in a day, I break it up into two days. There’s not much of note to mention between Nanaimo and Qualicum bay.

You can enjoy a a leisurely breakfast in Nanaimo before heading out. The ride through the town of Qualicum Beach is pleasant as it is very bike friendly, and you will enjoy bike lanes, a result of the retirees taking up electric bikes. If you skipped breakfast, there’s a nice park on your way into town called Rathtrevor Provincial Park, a good spot for a picnic.

When you reach Qualicum Bay, there are two options. One is to camp at the First Nations campground at Qualicum Bay. Again, nothing fancy about this place, and I actually prefer to stay at the Lighthouse Motel. It house a patio with fantastic views of the water, and you get a clean comfortable bed. This is one of the most worthwhile expenditures I’ve made.

There are only a couple dining options within easy riding distance, and I think the best is the Tidal Taco shack. Get your food to go and bring it back to the motel patio.

The next day, you’ll leave Vancouver island after a day’s ride and head to Powell River.