Thought I'd start a thread about some places to stay or eat etc within a few hour drive on the Island as it looks like nobodies flying anywhere for 2021.
We booked a cottage at Port Renfrew Accommodation - Handsome Dan's Cottages for a few days away over Spring Break. Its about 90 mins drive and self catering
At NY we booked a few nights in Parksville here Amazing Cottage On The Ocean ~ Private Oceanside Acreage ~ Miles Of Beach! - Parksville (vrbo.com) Its one of the original estates before Parksville became what it is. Amazing cabin on a great property if you want privacy and just a place to walk on the beach and no crowds
While in Parksville do yourself a favor and order dinner from Cuckoo in Coombs | Trattoria and Pizzeria its consistently one of the best restaurants we have ever eaten at. Eat in or take out.
As ASE pointed out, Crow and Gate Pub is a great place to do a little road trip for lunch
In warmer weather a great day trip is the Circle route through Jordan River to Lake Cowichan and back. Its a great drive, just make sure you have a full tank of gas and your ride is reliable. Took the toy car on this route last year and experienced 30 celsius down to 15 and fog and back up to 30 all within a 20km range. Views are spectacular.
Go for a hike and a swim at Matheson Lake, or top of the Malahat to Spectacle Lake
I'll add more as I think of them, but please add your own suggestions