| |
About Quadra Island
The largest of the Northern
Gulf Islands, Quadra is 35 km. long and in one place 9 km. wide, it covers 119sq
miles or 310 sq.km. Most of the 2647 (2006 census) residents live in the southern part of the
island near Quathiaski Cove and at mid-island at Heriot Bay. Visitors might be
greeted by dolphins or killer whales while crossing the Discovery Passage, a 12-minute
ferry ride from Campbell River to Quathiaski Cove on BC Ferries (http://www.bcferries.com.) the "Powell River Queen". The
“Cove” has a good selection of stores, a pharmacy, banking facility
and a gas station. Heriot Bay is the departure point to the other Discovery Islands,
Desolation Sound and Cortes Island. Both the Cove and Heriot Bay have goods and
services for visitors including grocery stores, post offices, liquor stores, guides,
outfitters, gift shops, rentals, as well as pubs, restaurants and public docks.Quadra Island is renowned for its natural beauty, first
class hospitality and culture. The moderate climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable
year-round.
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
Spring begins at the end of February, followed by a relatively
dry summer. Although the island is located in the temperate rain forest zone,
rain is noted by its absence. The November drama of ocean waves makes the choice
between a summer or winter vacation a difficult decision. The nutrient-rich waters
surrounding Quadra are fed by huge tidal actions that nourish abundant marine
life. Fishing is great all year round. Diving is superb, especially in the winter
months when the water is crystal clear. The Jacques Cousteau Society considers
Quadra Island one of the top diving locations in the world. The HMCS Columbia
is an artificial reef, just waiting to be explored. |
| |
|
Dogfish Bay, Quadra Island, photo:Chris Rose |
|
| |
|
| The character, landscape and life-style of Quadra are unique and different
from other islands. Long-time residents express a feeling of tranquility and relaxation
upon disembarking in Quathiaski Cove. Visitors are invited to experience the island
state of mind for themselves. |
|
| |
|
| |
Tea in our Garden, photo Jean Lovell |
| |
|
|
Human habitation on the island dates back
more than 2000 years. The first Spanish and English sailors arrived in the late
1700s to explore the maze of islands at the north end of Georgia Strait. They
sought the fabled Northwest Passage, a faster route from the Pacific to the Atlantic.
Trade commenced with the Salish and Kwagiulth First Nations whose descendants
still live at Cape Mudge Village. Today visitors can experience the creation of
beautiful native art by master carvers who draw upon their culture and verbal
history to carve masks, rattles, paddles and totem poles. |
| |
|
Dwayne Simeon, photo: Chris Rose |
|
| |
|
| |
|
The Kwagiulth
Museum at Cape Mudge Village, reopened on May 13. 2007 under a new name of "The Nuyumabales Cultural Centre". The centre has a significant
collection of historical artifacts, ceremonial regalia and carvings and is a major attraction for students of native history and culture. On the water front is the Ah-Wa-Qwa-Dzas (Gathering Place) built in Spring of 2007.
A collection of old totem poles around the Nuyumabales Cultural Centre always inspires visitors. Modern native
artists carve at Cape Mudge Village. A new canoe shed on the waterfront near the
administration building houses a magnificent canoe (launched in 2004) - the first
to be carved in 100 years. These events keep the heritage of the We-Wai-Kai Band
vibrant and alive.
The Cape Mudge Lighthouse, staffed and operational, is
accessible by road and is also linked by trail from Cape Mudge Village. Located
on the south end of the island, it is near the site of the original native village
visited by Captain Vancouver in 1792. Here petroglyphs from centuries ago can
be seen at low tide.
The spectacular scenery and natural beauty of Quadra
Island appeals to many well known contemporary artists. Over 120 artists make
their home on the island including potters, painters, sculptors, musicians, writers
and photographers. Each year they celebrate the Annual Quadra Island Studio Tour
on the first weekend of June. This event attracts visitors from many parts of
North America and abroad. Many of the artists keep their studios open over the
summer or year-round. Some artists provide mentor programs, retreats and workshops.
|
| |
Shayne Perkins starting on his sculpture, photo:Chris Rose |
| |
Quadra
has a growing community of Healing Arts practitioners including massage, reflexology,
tai chi and spas.
The
rich forests give rise to abundant wildlife. A vast network of beautiful freshwater
lakes and streams cris-cross the less inhabited northern part of the island. Main
Lake Provincial Park is an excellent area for paddling excursions, swimming and
camping. A system of forest trails has been developed to take hikers deep into
the woods through groves of old growth trees to stunning viewpoints. For hikers
and mountain bike enthusiasts, the Quadra Island Trail Map is available to show
the various routes. |
| |
|
| |
Main Lake, photo:Nick Rose |
| |
Kayakers can explore the rugged coastline and provincial
marine parks. A number of kayak operators offer day and/or overnight tours. Wildlife
tours, whale and bear watching tours and history tours are also popular.
Rebecca
Spit Provincial Park near Heriot Bay is one of the best known beaches.. Sheltered moorage
in Drew Harbour is popular with yachts exploring The Discovery Islands and Desolation
Sound.
For outdoor activities the remote lakes provide excellent
canoeing and fishing. Many secluded trails offer superb hiking and biking. There
are diving, sailing, kayaking, whale watching and wildlife tours. For a sedate
stroll or picnic - Rebecca Spit Provincial Park is the place to go. - Quadra has
it all.
Plan now to experience inspiring surroundings, invigorating ocean air, friendly
locals, and of course...fabulous art. |
| |
|
| |
| The Quadra Island Golf Course is under construction. The first nine holes are scheduled for completion in early 2009. Early membership will provide special benefits and assist in the completion of the project. |
| |
|
Accommodation:
Information
Books
There are a number of books that are still in print
and give wonderful information about Quadra Island. Joy Inglis:
Assu of Cape Mudge and Spirit in Stone Hilary Stewart:
On Island Time Jeanette Taylor: River City a history
of Campbell River and the Discovery Islands Jocelyn Reekie/Annette Yourk:
Shorelines: Memoirs & Tales of the Discovery Islands ACTIVITIES Artists/Studios/Galleries More than 130 artist and/or artist
groups live on Quadra Island. A Number of these artist have opened their studios
to visitors. There are several galleries on the island and a number of artists
offer mentor programs.. For more information consult the
Quadra Island Arts Directory A visit to Quadra Island would
not have be complete without a tour through the Kwagiulth Museum & Cultural
Centre, however the Museum has been close for unkown reason for a number of
years. |
