Surrounded by a beautiful valley next to the largest glacier on Vancouver Island, charming seaside Comox, British Columbia is located on the peninsula that forms the renowned Comox Harbor. The 13,000 residents of Comox real estate enjoy a gorgeous setting, moderate climate, year-round recreational activities, a vibrant arts scene, and ample community services. Approximately 2˝ hours north of Victoria BC real estate and an hour north of Nanaimo BC real estate, the imposing Comox Glacier, Forbidden Plateau, and Mount Washington, a ski resort, will catch the attention of anyone driving towards the village of Comox.
The recent influx of residents and retirees in this southern Vancouver Island real estate are inclined to play along the miles of sandy shores that lead off both north and south of the quiet little coastal town where all Comox and her sister city Courtenay real estate is near beautiful beaches and mountains. Many look for Comox property such as a well-kept farm in the rural areas or a golf-course home in Comox near downtown, or a gracious Comox home overlooking the harbor to keep an eye out for the parade of watercraft coming and going.
The Salish people originally settled the Comox area, a name derived from the Kwakwala Indian word Komuckway (“Place of Plenty”) referring to abundant game and berries. European settlers changed the name to Komoux, then finally to Comox. The Port of Comox overlooks the protected waters of Comox Harbor–once known as Port Augusta and used by the Royal Navy and transport steamers. As one of the safest harbors in the nation, boats and ships came to explore, trade, survey, work, and to rest and enjoy the beauty of the area. Some of the best salmon fishing in the world is right here and, of course, fresh fish is available at Dockside Sales.
The Canadian Forces Base played a major role in shaping the community. The Comox Air Force Museum and Heritage air Park and other museums tell many a tale. In addition to the Base’s essential roles for British Columbia and Canada, it is a large supporter of numerous events in this “Valley of Festivals.” Nautical Days celebrate the long-time affiliation with the sea. The Filberg Festival features hundreds of artists and performers in the fabulous setting of the historic Filberg Lodge and CYMC is a three-week summer music festival and workshop that attracts a variety of young musicians.
With low taxes and a thriving economy, the town is the centre of a larger agricultural area that produces fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Its friendly atmosphere sustains a healthy hospitality industry as well. Amenities such as a well-equipped volunteer fire department, a modern community centre, and a library, a large hospital with specialized services, parks, and playing fields service the needs of the community. Families utilize four elementary, junior- and senior-high schools along with North Island College, which also offers a wealth of leisure programs.
Sailing the Inside Passage, wind surfing behind Goose Spit, cross-country and downhill skiing on Mount Washington and Forbidden Plateau, and hiking in the mountains of Strathcona Provincial Park are on the “to do” lists of newcomers. Fishers find rivers, lakes, and saltwater; golfers choose from several courses, and families camp, canoe, kayak, mountain bike and horseback ride. Bird sanctuaries and a wetland sanctuary allow for the moments of quiet enchantment, which residents so appreciate.
The village is easily accessible via Island Highway 19, via BC Ferries, the Regional Airport, the smaller Courtenay Airpark, daily coach lines, and local buses, pleasure and commercial boats enter through the four marinas. Call Kim Bihari at Re/Max of Nanaimo for expert assistance when buying or selling property on the Island.
Articles © Copyright 2006 by NanaimoRealEstateTeam.com
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