Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Activities
The town is a great access point for exploring the north-island wilderness. Hikers can
book customized guided tours with the friendly folk at
North Island Daytrippers
(
www.odysseykayaking.com
;
from $50)
can rent you some gear and point you to local high-
lights (Malei Island and Alder Bay recommended). For dive fans,
Catala Charters
(
www.catalacharters.net
;
dive trips from $150)
can have you hanging with local octopus and
wolf eels.
Sleeping & Eating
North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel
HOSTEL$
( 250-949-9441, 866-448-6303;
www.porthardyhostel.webs.com
; 8635 Granville St; dm/r from
$25/60; )
Colonizing a former downtown storefront, this labyrinthine hostel is a war-
ren of small and larger dorms, overseen by friendly owners with plenty of tips on how to
encounter the region - they'll even pick you up from the ferry if you call ahead. The
hostel's hub is a large rec room, and while the kitchen is small, the adjoining cafe can
keep you well fueled.
Ecoscape Cabins
CABIN$$$
( 250-949-8524;
www.ecoscapecabins.com
; 6305 Jensen Cove Rd; cabins $130-175; )
A
clutch of immaculate cedar-wood cabins, divided between compact units - with flat-
screen TVs, microwaves and sunny porches (ideal for couples) - and roomier hilltop
units with swankier furnishings, BBQs and expansive views. There's a tranquil retreat
feel to staying here and you should expect to see eagles swooping around the nearby
trees. Deer are not uncommon, too.
Café Guido
CAFE$
(7135 Market St; mains $5-8; 7am-6pm Mon-Fri, 8am-6pm Sat, 8am-5pm Sun; )
A friendly
locals' hangout where you'll easily end up sticking around for an hour or two - espe-
cially if you hit the loungey sofas with a tome purchased from the bookstore downstairs.
Grilled panini are the way to go for lunch (try the Nero), but there's always a good soup
special. Then nip upstairs to the surprisingly large and diverse craft shop.
Getting There & Around
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