Mayne-ly Refreshed
Growing up in a small town, I was always outside, breathing in the freedoms of nature. Since I moved to Victoria, last September, that outdoor time has sadly evaporated. Finally, as the first day of spring arrived boasting sunshine, I decided I needed an escape.
I was caught up with my work, the house was clean, and the weather was nice, so I had no excuse but to hop on my bike and go explore. On Saturday, I headed for the ferry terminal and caught the early boat to Mayne Island.
At only 21 square kilometers, Mayne Island provides a surprisingly strenuous day of cycle touring. The forty-five kilometer circle tour is a wonderful series of rolling hills. With only 900 local residents, and few springtime tourists, the island seems practically deserted. Beautiful beaches, summer cottages and endless wildlife make the island a breathtaking place to refresh after a long winter spent in the city.
Setting out from Miner’s Bay I pedaled along winding roads into the Gulf Island National Park Reserve, to find the Georgina Point Lighthouse surrounded by grazing deer. The two local families sitting at the beach, enjoying a picnic lunch waved enthusiastic welcomes when I arrived.
In fact, every single person I passed along the road, whether they were doing yard work, walking the dog, or cleaning their car, greeted me with a smile. Most of them said hello. Two of them offered me coffee. I couldn’t believe it. As friendly as Victoria is, the sheer number of people rushing to and from work gives it an unpleasant urban feel. Mayne Island was another world.
From the lighthouse, I continued to circle the island, and quickly found the diversity that makes the Gulf Islands unique. Beautiful homes lined the coast at David Cove, while cozy summer cottages stood in Bennett Bay. Despite new resort developments, a farmhouse, built in 1871, still stands along the road to Horton Bay.
By the end of the day, I was back to my small town self. Waving to strangers, chatting with everyone and ignoring the time on my watch. Nothing mattered by enjoying the day. My mind was freed from the stresses of daily life, and I found myself wishing I had done this more often.
Unfortunately, I lost track of time, and I had to rush back for the ferry. Spinning along the southern shore, I glanced up to see the cliff walled summit of Mount Parke, and made an instant decision:
Enough excuses, I will spend each weekend exploring my new backyard.
Nice story Jeff. I’ve been going to Mayne since I was a kid. My Grandparents lived there and my aunt and uncle live there now. Did you go to the Japanese Garden? It’s a beautiful place.
Too funny. I think that I was one of the “two families” at the lighthouse. We’re a small enough community, that I didn’t think I recognized you.
Mayne is a great place, I love living here. Be sure to come back and check out some kayaking during the summer. Departing from Bennett Bay, there are some beautiful paddles into the National Park and out toward Saturna. The cycling is great, and the hiking is amazing too. Mount Parke has phenomenal views, and Henderson Hill is definitely worth the climb too!