A
whistle stop at William Duncan's farm during the 1880's, the "City
of Totems" is a major business centre for the farming and
forestry industries of the Cowichan Valley.
When you visit Duncan, you can't help but notice the outstanding
collection of totem poles that line city streets. There is a self-guided
walk through the town to let the visitor view all the 41 poles.
Other examples of Northwest Coast Indian culture is available
at the interpretive centre where one can watch or join demonstrations
of carving, weaving, beadwork or the world famous Cowichan sweaters.
The
birdwatcher and naturalist will get an outstanding view of water-oriented
wildfowl and the Somenos Bird Sanctuary just north of town.
The
lakes and rivers surrounding Duncan offer good freshwater fishing,
canoeing and boating, while the surrounding countryside is a haven
for hikers, bikers, photographers and sightseers.
Accommodation/Adventure
Providers
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City
Information
Population:
4,735.
Main
Industries: fishing, farming, forestry, and tourism.
Access:
Duncan is 60 km (37 mi.) north of Victoria on Highway 1. The
area is also served by airlines, bus and rail.
Recreation
Facilities & Activies: golf courses, fishing, and hiking.
Local
Attractions: BC Forest Museum, City of Totems, Cowichan Bay
Maritime Centre, Duncan Station Museum, Native Heritage Centre,
World's Largest Hockey Stick, Somenos Bird Sanctuary, Demonstration
Forest. July - Summer Festival, Folk Festival September - Cowichan Exhibition
Accommodations:
There are a variety of accommodations in Duncan and area;
from fine motel and hotels to bed and breakfast establishments
and RV parks and campsites.
For
Information:
Duncan-Cowichan
Travel InfoCentre
381 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan, BC V9L 3R5
Telephone (250) 746-4636 Fax (250) 746-8222
Tourism
Association of Vancouver Island
#203-335 Wesley Street, Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2T5
Telephone (250) 754-3500 Fax (250) 754-3599