6 Hours
A six-hour loop from Victoria that pairs the high, wind-swept perspectives of the Malahat Skywalk with intimate tastings at Cowichan Valley boutique wineries. Expect panoramic ridge views, small-lot pours, and a clear sense of how island geography shapes local wine.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 Hours
Fitness Level
Light-to-moderate fitness: able to walk short boardwalks and vineyard slopes and to stand through several tasting stops.
Wildlife
History
This part of Vancouver Island lies within the Coast Salish bioregion and has long-standing Indigenous connections to land and water use.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to minimize waste, stay on boardwalks to protect sensitive Garry oak habitats, and follow winery guidelines to reduce impact.
6 Hours
Dress for ridge wind
Bring a warm, windproof layer—conditions on the Malahat can be several degrees cooler and much windier than Victoria.
Bring a refillable bottle
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated between tastings; many wineries offer water but prefer low-waste visitors.
Ask about cellar access
If you want deeper tasting notes and behind-the-scenes context, request cellar access or a vintner-led stop when booking.
Pace your tastings
Plan for small pours and breaks—six hours moves fast when combining ridge walks and multiple tasting rooms.
Windproof jacket
Blocks chill and wind on the exposed Malahat ridge.
spring
Sturdy walking shoes
Support for uneven boardwalks and vineyard benches.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated between tastings and minimizes waste.
summer
Zoom-capable camera or telephoto lens
Captures ridge panoramas and distant Gulf Islands without disturbing wildlife.
fall