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| Quadra
Island
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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 3500 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 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. |
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| Quadra Island is renowned for its natural beauty, first
class hospitality and culture. The moderate climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable
year-round. |
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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. |
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| Sunday Afternoon-South End (chris Rose) |
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| 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. |
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| 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. |
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The Kwagiulth
Museum at Cape Mudge Village, unfortunately closed since 1999, has a significant
collection of historical artifacts, ceremonial regalia and carvings and was at
one time a major attraction for students of native history and culture. There
are plans to reopen the museum once renovations are complete. Nevertheless, a
collection of old totem poles around the museum 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. |
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| Dawyne Simeon,photo:Chris Rose |
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Quathiaski Cove, Photo:Kirsten Eastland |
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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. |
| Cape Mudge Lighthouse,(Michael Foort) |
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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. |
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Perrin Sparks:Village Lake |
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| Quadra
has a growing community of Healing Arts practitioners including massage, reflexology,
tai chi and spas. |
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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. |
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Kate Dubois Trail (Chris Rose) |
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Granit Bay (David Leadbitter) |
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| 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. |
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Rebecca
Spit Provincial Park near Heriot Bay is one of the best known beaches. Nearby
We-Wai-Kai Campground provides excellent camping facilities. Sheltered moorage
in Drew Harbour is popular with yachts exploring The Discovery Islands and Desolation
Sound.
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Heriot Bay /Rebecca Spit (Michael Foort) |
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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. Settle in at a 4 star resort, a cozy B&B or a beachfront campsite.
Plan now to experience inspiring surroundings, invigorating ocean air, friendly
locals, and of course...fabulous art. |
Morinig on Main Lake (Nick Rose) |
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Better yet - improve
your painting skills or start as beginner, carve your own sculpture out of soapstone
or blow a piece of art in glass . For details about the artists check the manue. |
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Following
Studio have excellent accommodations attached with their mentor
programs
Firesign
Art& Design Studio and B&B
Cherie
Hemmingsen "i blew it" Studio
Chris Rose Soapstone Studio - Rose Seaside Retreat
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| Accomodations |
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