Article in This Sunday’s Times Columnist
BYWARRENGOULDING
SPECIAL TOTHE TIMES COLONIST Can there be a more romantic place on Vancouver Island to
spend Valentine’s Day than Chemainus? Not if your mind is intent on spending some enchanting hours with that
important someone, shopping for a perfect gift, sharing a leisurely meal or enjoying the latest production at the Chemainus Theatre
Festival. Or perhaps strolling through the historic town, admiring the collection of more than 40 murals and sculptures that have put
Chemainus on the international arts and cultural map.
With the trees already in bud and daffodils and tulips pushing through the soil, spring is in the air and whimsical thoughts of
renewal and love – enjoyed by the young and not-so-young – are everywhere in this seaside community.
A stroll down Willow Street, the town’s main boulevard could begin at the Chemainus Senior’s Drop-In Centre, where the
newest mural is being painted on the north wall of the building.
Local artist Lurene Haines is creating the mural, an idyllic portrait of life on a summer day in Chemainus in the 1880s.
Lou Roelofsen, president of the Chemainus Festival of Murals Society, is particularly proud of this latest mural in progress.
“This mural includes women, men, children and First Nations people in costume appropriate for that era in an outdoor gathering
with Mount Brenton in the background.
Talk about romantic!
Continuing down Willow Street, savory coffee and sweet treats beckon. Not to mention Valentine gifts for all tastes and budgets.
There’s the eclectic Ma’s Gifts & Accessories, the marvelous British Allsorts, featuring treats from the United Kingdom, locally made
women’s wear from Degage Fashions. And it only gets better. You’ll want to drop into Gifts ‘n’ Things at the corner of Willow and
Mill, a must-see shop with a huge inventory of beautiful kitchenware, home décor accessories and unique gifts.
A few steps later, you’re into a coffee snob’s paradise … and a chocolate lover’s dream. Caffé Carvaggio’s suggests you “fill your
heart with chocolate” and offers locally hand-crafted chocolates, sugar free treats and special Valentine’s gift baskets.
More sweets? You won’t be disappointed at Hansel & Gretel’s Candy Co.: Valentino Teddy Bears, 1 lb. lollipops, and February’s
feature, Pressed Hugs & Kisses.
The Dancing Bean Café has come up with a super idea for Valentine’s, Blue Valentine’s on Saturday, February 13, an evening
of blues and fine food. “We’re inviting people to enjoy blues with style,” says Mona Kennedy of The Dancing
Bean. “Our menu that night will feature seafood or Mediterranean couples’ platters and our full menu will
be available.” Gary Preston and Anita Bonkowski will deliver a mix of blues on harmonica, keyboards and vocals.
Still on Willow, the newly opened Karen’s Uptown Bistro is offering entrees created with “love and local
products” smiles owner Karen Lockhart.
And as anyone who has visited this beloved, quaint town just a pleasant drive north of Victoria knows,
Chemainus embraces its colourful history. That means a visit to Old Town is in the offing. Some of the more
popular murals are located in Old Town, the neighbourhood close to the ferry terminal. There’s Colin
Williams’ mural of Chemainus Harbour 1910 on Oak Street and
the Paul Marcano mural honouring the irrepressible Chinese entrepreneur
Hong Hing that’s at the corner of Oak and Esplanade.
While you’re in Old Town, the shopping, eating and quaffing options are endless.
If it’s great Asian food you favour, drop into
Ding Ho’s on Oak Street. Bill and Jenny are preparing a special
smorgasbord for February 14, which also happens to be Chinese New Year.
Down Maple Street, on the way to the beach, you’ll find the Twisted Sisters Tea Room, an ideal venue for lunches, dozens of
teas and sweet treats. The Twisties are open til 11 p.m. most nights.
How about taking some time for yourselves with a relaxation massage for two at The Flowering Tree Natural Spa. Great gift
ideas are a way of life at Vancouver Island Soap Factory where Chemainus-made products are perfect Valentine’s gifts.
Valentine’s is a month-long affair at the Chemainus Festival Inn where an elegant and romantic suite, with chocolates on
your pillow, complimentary breakfast and use of the indoor pool and more await guests on any February weekend.
And, of course, there is the smash hit, A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline, now playing at the Chemainus Theatre Festival.
The musical tribute to the iconic country singer runs until February 27.
“Ah, romance. February makes me swoon,” as novelist
Jill Kemerer writes.
For more information on Chemainus attractions and businesses, visit www.tourismchemainus.com
