The Malahat and Area

Malahat Proper is a rugged mountainous region containing mature forests and steep cliffs. Winding north from Victoria, the Malahat Drive offers spectacular views of the Saanich Peninsula and Gulf Islands.

The community of Mill Bay is at the bottom of the Malahat Drive offering quiet waterfront streets with views of the Saanich Peninsula over the Saanich Inlet.

To the North West of the Malahat and Mill Bay is Shawnigan Lake a waterfront community, which offers a rural lifestyle based around the lake. It offers water based recreation such as boating and water skiing.

These communities as well as Cobble Hill are part of the Cowichan Valley Regional District. The area offers rich soil and conditions that are suitable for growing grapes. There area has become popular for small farms, wineries, cottage industries producing cheese and organic produce.