The Vancouver Island South Explorer: The Outdoor Guide

Sidney Allinson is a Victoria-based communications consultant, Canadian
news correspondent for Britain’s The Army Quarterly and Defence, and
the author of Military Archives: International Directory of Military
Publications and The Bantams: The Untold St

South Vancouver Island is a scenic paradise that’s full of interesting
spots to visit, many of which are obscure to the brief visitor. As a
resident (and enthusiastic explorer of the area), I thought I had
acquainted myself with most of the trip possibilities in this area; but
this book mentioned several places off the beaten track that I had not
come across.

Visitors will find it even more useful. A quick study of this
“Outdoor Guide” encourages visitors to range far beyond the obvious
commercial tourist attractions around the city of Victoria. It starts by
explaining various ways of getting to the Island, and then suggests
alternative modes of travel once there. The emphasis is on
“exploring”—often encouraging one to roam around by foot, bike, or
canoe. The trips are presented in logical order, grouping destinations
by region. Descriptions include landscape, wildlife, and amenities, plus
a little potted history to lend a sense of place, and clear local maps
are provided. Unfortunately, poor-quality photographs are used to
illustrate scenic attractions the author praises, but perhaps these are
compensated for by his well-written descriptions.