

About 80,000 people live in the region of the Cowichan Valley and the Chemainus River Valley. 4900 people live in the city of Duncan. Duncan is in the heart of Cowichan, gateway to the vacationer's paradise. This south central area of Vancouver Island has been described as having a Mediterranean climate and boasts the ‘warmest mean temperature in Canada’. The word Cowichan, or Khowutsun, comes from the traditional native language and translates to ‘the land warmed by the sun’. Long before European settlers populated the area in the late 1800s, the land was inhabited by Coast Salish First Nations people. (Source: Cowichan Chamber of Commerce)
Cowichan is made up of a number of small communities, each with its distinct character and unique activities. Each one is worth taking the time to explore; Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Honeymoon Bay, Mesachie Lake, Cowichan Bay, Mill Bay and Cobble Hill. Fertile valleys, rolling mountains, undulating rivers and pristine lakes come together to form the backdrop of the Cowichan; a place of incredible beauty, timeless traditions and tidal rhythms.
Nestled between the bustling cities of Victoria to the South and Nanaimo to the North, Cowichan offers a wide choice of things to see and do throughout the year, from exploring the wine country trails, to unforgettable fishing, kayaking, hiking and golfing adventures. Or, explore and engage in our rich cultural heritage and discover the many historic sites and artists galleries along the way. (Source: CVRD)
Average summer temperatures: high 23 degrees C, low 12 degrees C
Average winter temperatures: high 6 degrees C, low 1 degree C
Average annual precipitation: 99 cm or 39 inches
Annual hours of sunshine: 1845 hours