Nanaimo Info Please...

[time4sun]

We will be on a cruise the end of October that stops in Nanaimo, could any of you that have stopped at this port please advise on vehicle rental or taxi availability as we will have approx. 10 of us that want to take a trek to Buchart Gardens or the Wineries...any other ideas would also be much appreciated!

[insideedge]

The Butchart Gardens is aprox 100 miles from Naniamo. Takes about 2 and a half hours to drive there. I really don't think you have the time. But if you are looking for something to do about half an hour from Nanaimo is a place called Chemainus. Great little town that painted murals on most of the buildings in town. There are nice little restraunts to have lunch or icecream. Check out a place called Small Tall Treats (great cinnamon buns)

[eh2zed]

Likely too far to do Butchart Garedens. Sorry.

[mii]

The Butchart Gardens is aprox 100 miles from Naniamo. Takes about 2 and a half hours to drive there. I really don't think you have the time. But if you are looking for something to do about half an hour from Nanaimo is a place called Chemainus. Great little town that painted murals on most of the buildings in town. There are nice little restraunts to have lunch or icecream. Check out a place called Small Tall Treats (great cinnamon buns)

 

We were in Nanaimo this past May and I can attest to seeing Chemainus. What a great little town. also just do a search above this page where it says "Search this Forum" and put in Nanaimo. all sorts of stuff come up or just do a google search of Nanaimo.

 

Marilyn

[Urban trekker]

If you are renting a car you will want to drive a little up island - that's north and take in the oceanside community of Parksville - noted to its beaches and beauty - then a short drive up to McMillan Park to see the old growth forest

 

Here's a link to the park site:

 

http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/macmillan.html

 

I notice that there is some trail damage - don't let that deter you - just getting out of your car and looking a the trees is something to behold.

 

A drive to Port Alberni is also doable as it is only a short distance from the park.

 

If you want to stay in closer - the walk along the promenade is a great way to see the harbour - a ride on a little ferry over to Newcastle Island is also a great way to spend some time:

 

http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/newcastl.html

 

and yes seeing the murals at Chemainus is definitely worth the effort.

 

Chances are that the tourist info people will be meeting your tender boat as the local folks who are friendly to start with have been going all out to get more ships to stop here.

 

Hope this helps and enjoy your Nanaimo visit.

 

Cheers

 

Dennis