Out and About Thetis Island
|
This
thickly forested Northern Gulf Island off the west coast of the British
Columbia mainland is the smallest and least populated of all the Gulf
Islands. Covering only 10 square kilometres, Thetis is primarily rural
and maintains a community-minded spirit even though it is within close
proximity to many major urban centres, such as Vancouver, Victoria, and
Seattle.
|
FACTS FOR THE VISITOR
|
Every Island has a story …
|
Thetis
Island was named for early surveyors of the area aboard the British
frigate, H.M.S. Thetis. This boat was moored at Esquimalt from 1851 to
1853. The adjacent Kuper Island bears the name of Thetis’ captain.
These two islands were originally joined by mud flats, but in 1905 a
cut was dredged for the first time, which allowed boats to pass through
this channel. Pioneers first established themselves on Thetis in 1873.
Over 100 years later, by 1986, Lawrence Trail had been built through
the centre of the Island to provide direct access between Preedy
Harbour and the Lawrence homestead on Pilkey Point.
|
Who lives on Thetis?
|
There
are about 340 permanent residents and many summer cottage owners that
enjoy Thetis Island. Most of the island’s residents are involved in the
arts or are enjoying their retirement with Thetis Island as their
backdrop.
|
Where is it and how do I get there?
|
|
When should I go?
|
The
mild, Mediterranean-like climate of Thetis makes this an ideal location
for visiting year round. Warm winters and dry summers attest to the
fact that Thetis lies in the rain shadow of Victoria and visitors will
note that the climate is much less rainy than that of neighbouring
Vancouver.
|
What should I do when I get there?
|
Although
Thetis has no commercial centre, the island still has a number of
important amenities to offer the visitor, including: 2 marinas (one
with a pub and restaurant, the other with a café), artist’s studios,
accommodation, a variety of community services, convenience stores,
nurseries, and an abundance of recreation opportunities. But with all
of this to do, don’t forget to take some time to relax in this pristine
and leisurely environment!
|
What are some of the Island’s unique features?
|
Crime-free ...
|
Thetis Island is proud of its status as virtually crime-free, making this an ideal and safe location for families to visit.
|
Discover the Water ...
|
Telegraph
Harbour on Thetis Island is an area not to be missed! Take in the views
of Canoe Pass, an area so shallow that boats are often moored here
unintentionally until the tide rolls in! This pass has separated Thetis
from Kuper Island, a First Nations Reserve, since 1905. If you are
visiting in the summer, you can take a refreshing dip in the warm
Harbour. For winter tourists, you may want to stick to warmer pursuits,
like strolling the roads of the island or golfing a round on the Mt.
Brenton Golf Course at Chemainus.
|
Explore on Foot ...
|
The
entire island can be seen best via bicycle tour or on foot, no need for
a car! St. Margaret's Cemetery beside Capernwray is a beautiful place
for you to explore the historical gravestones that make up this final
resting place for Thetis’ ancestors. While out and about, you will
enjoy the Douglas Fir, Terrestrial Herbaceous, and Garry Oak ecosystems
that make up this Cascadia bioregion (meaning coastal, Pacific
Northwest).
|
Private … and Privately Owned
|
Most
of Thetis is privately owned, apart from a small stretch of beach and
roadway. The island is mainly used by the three Christian camps found
here and has no public land or parks. Thetis is dedicated to
tranquility, community, and natural beauty.
|