SHAWNIGAN LAKE, VANCOUVER ISLAND, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Monday, August 22nd (day 146)

We said goodbye to our friends this morning. They left Oak Harbor, heading for their dock on the Columbia River in Longview, WA. Later that day we put a plan in motion to knock some chores off the ever growing list, as well as visit our friends, Bill & Wendy at their cabin at Shawnigan Lake, B.C. 

Sunday, August 28th (day 152)

We drove our rental car to Anacortes, WA where we boarded a ferry bound for Sydney, B.C. Bill was kind enough to sweep us up from Customs and shuttled us to their summer cabin on the lake. He told us about some of the history, and pointed out some of the geography while stopping at an overlook. Shawingan Lake is located on Vancouver Island. The population is appx 8000. It is a popular recreation destination for families who live in Victoria and Sidney. During the summer months the population doubles. It is also home of The Shawnigan Lake School, which is a prestigious international boarding school.

After stopping at the market, we arrived at their cozy lake front cabin, which Bill built himself with his own hands, appx 30-40 years ago. Situated in the woods on the hillside, it is comprised of 3 buildings, several decks and a dock for all the toys. After getting settled in to the guest loft, we enjoyed catching up during collective brunches and dinner parties. It was the first night ashore in 6 months.... What a treat!  Beautiful views, great company, delicious food, boat rides, camp fires... What's not to love!  Thanks so much Bill & Wendy, our new Canadian friends! We look forward to reuniting with them next year for more "buddy boating" with Sea Badger.

The driveway is easy to miss.

Bunk house on the hillside, below the main cabin.

The floating Lilly Pads bloom mid morning.

Bill's snazzy ski boat.

The main house is at the top of the ramp, with the bunk house to the right.

We really enjoyed the relaxing vibe of the cabin.

Sunset

The shower is located outside.

Wendy and Faith, "playing in the pond".

Bill gave us a tour of the lake.... what a beautiful day.

A small marina and private homes on the lake.

Shawigan Lake School... this is just part of the campus. The lake is involved with the athletic programs,
such as The Row Team, Sailing, Competition Water Skiing, Kayacking, etc.

I found this interesting tree while on a walk - about.

We had a few minutes to walk downtown Sidney's Main Street.

There is a park to the left of the pier and you could buy fresh fish at the market on the pier.

This aquarium is located on the main floor of The Hotel.

This concluded our 2016 visit to British Columbia.