We seek out E:Ne to indulge in the fine locally inspired cuisine and expertly paired Sake for a complete sensory experience. Only the freshest and finest local ingredients are hand-selected to showcase their bold, masterful yet whimsical preparations and fine Sakes. Each of the offerings and pairings was clearly purpose-built to satisfy, and that is exactly what they did.
Read MoreWe dive deep into another local Vancouver Island distillery gaining international attention for their award winning spirits. Through proprietary distilling and maturation techniques, Macaloney’s New Caledonian Distillery is on the forefront of cask matured spirits, packed full of Scottish heritage and tradition. Macaloney’s is soon becoming the finest Whiskies outside of Scotland.
Read MoreThe artisans of Coachwerks Restoration opened up their facility to reveal the exquisite level of detail and care that goes into each and every one of their automotive masterpieces. The level of precision, expertise and patience required to consistently execute at a world-class level metaphorically oozes out of every inch of their sizable facility, their hardened crew and everything they touch.
Read MoreWhen we think of tea-producing nations we often think of exotic or distant lands, utterly and completely foreign to our temperate Canadian way of life. West Holme Tea has been proudly growing organic terroir tea for over a decade, right here on our fair island. Based in a small valley on Southern Vancouver Island, West Holme continues to make a big splash in the international tea trade since its launch in 2016. Victor Vesley shared insights into how West Holme Tea became an international tea brand as we visited the farm to explore the numerous offerings, see how the tea is grown, and most importantly indulge in some award-winning teas.
Read MoreWe sat in with Tom LaFortune at his Victoria BC studio to catch some of the large-scale action he is internationally sought out for. Tom is a phenomenally talented and experienced traditional carver who continues to share his works both privately and publicly and always in a big way. Tom is known for producing traditional Coast Salish works that depict traditional animal and human figures, from single blocks of wood that typically tower over the viewer in scale.
Read MoreThe Westin Bear Mountain is undergoing a massive renovation that will forever change the world-famous resort. We headed up the mountain to see what is in store for the freshly appointed Spa and the plans that leave no aspect of the current Westin unturned. Boasting some all-new amenities, fresh finishes, and exclusive features sure to amaze, The Westin will continue to be a premier resort well into the foreseeable future.
Read MoreWe’re headed back out to Tofino to soak in all that is Surfer’s Paradise, a surf-front estate on Chesterman beach. The sounds of surf, salt-laden air mixed with the smells of tall trees that gently sway in the wind encompass the expansive property that boasts views of Templar Channel sure to amaze. This well-appointed, west-facing ocean-front property provides ample options to check the surf with your morning coffee in hand or curl up with loved ones to share the breathtaking Tofino sunsets by night.
Read MoreFrom towering trees to tiny spores the ancient forests of Vancouver Island have often defied explanation further fueling inspiration for countless generations of residents and visitors alike. We take a closer look into the physical, dynamic, and mythical aspects of these ancient forests as well as their prized flora and unique fauna found within.
Read MorePerched high up in the rolling hills of Salt Spring island lays a literal sanctuary tucked into the old growth forests and sun kissed peaks synonymous with the Salt Spring - the largest of the Gulf islands. With over 70 acres of rolling hills, pastures, lakes, trails, and gardens Zaubergberg Estate is simply a jewel to experience let alone behold. With an expansive main residence, lake front sauna cabin, numerous purposeful outbuildings and bountiful mountain-top views, you quite literally won’t want to leave, we didn’t.
Read MoreA glimpse of Vancouver Island’s history from it’s formation hundreds of millions of years ago, to it’s evolution from remote fur trading settlement to melting pot of industry and technology beginning in the late 19th century.
Read MoreTigh-Na-Mara Resort’s “pièce de résistance”, The Grotto Spa, was recently named the #1 Spa in Canada by Spas of America. Guests flock to the retreat year after year to enjoy a plethora of bodily indulgences, often with a focus on natural West Coast ingredients.
Read MoreThe Wilson brothers have been making waves across the island with a number of notable sales. VILL Magazine spoke with Logan and Shane about their move from land surveying to real estate, and their growing catalogue of unique listings around the island.
Read MoreVancouver Island is home to many significant architectural marvels, but most are remnants of our colonial past. Instances of inspiring contemporary architecture are rare, let alone ones recognized as provincial and national treasures. Just such an example of iconic Canadian design sits on the shores of the Salish Sea, hidden from the gaze of those travelling the winding coastal roads surrounding Metchosin on Southern Vancouver Island.
Read MoreThere’s something about infinity pools, especially those boasting epic backdrops, which leave us all wanting to take a dip. Usually tantalizing us on our Instagram feeds, these inspiring pools are often seen in exotic locales far from home. Breaking that mold is an incredible specimen perched high on a hilltop in Central Saanich.
Read MoreA tour of Vancouver Island is not complete without some motorized fun. Be it on foot at one of the many car shows taking place in communities north to south, or behind the wheel tackling the innumerable scenic routes snaking along the coast, the island is no doubt an excellent place to be an automotive enthusiast.
Read MoreOn the evening of June 21st, VILL correspondent, Emily Dobby attended the VIP launch of the Robert Bateman Centre’s latest exhibit, Into the Arctic. Read more about her conversation with Bateman, and this incredible exhibit showcasing over 50 original oil paintings and three films by Cory Trépanier, a Canadian explorer, filmmaker and painter named one of Canada’s Top 100 Living Explorers by Canadian Geographic Magazine.
Read MoreThe newly constructed Victoria International Marina (VIM) offers world-class, custom-built moorage for yachts from 65 to 175 feet. Situated in the heart of cosmopolitan Victoria, the full-service 28-slip marina sets the standard in upscale security and safety, amenities, concierge services, crew facilities, and innovative sustainable design.
Read MoreIf you enjoy small plate dining and inventive dishes created with locally sourced fine ingredients, you should seriously consider visiting the Livet for your next culinary adventure.
Read MoreA local distillery won the highly coveted top prize at the World Gin Awards this year - the Best Contemporary Gin was awarded to Sheringham Distillery for their Seaside Gin, which has now collected a total of eight awards including the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 Silver Medal.
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