Sidney
 It's
just around the corner from Victoria International Airport, just down
the road from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal and is the gateway to the
new Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. It's filled with small town charm,
boasts the most sunshine in the province and, until recently, was one
of the best kept secrets in BC. Its name, technically, is Sidney-by-the-Sea.
Most everyone calls it Sidney.
Long considered "just a place for old folks", Sidney remains a popular retirement spot. But today's retirees are likely to be outfitted with spandex and eating protein bars. Always sensitive to the needs of those who do require assistance, town curbs are cut low for wheelchairs and scooters, and audible traffic signals on Beacon Ave aid the sight impaired. Whether you walk or ride, the network of paved walkways and bike paths is impressive. We've never seen so many cyclists over the age of 50. It's great!
Sidney's "new look" caters nicely to visitors looking for
a taste of outdoor adventure and culture in a seaside destination
- ecotours to the Inner Gulf Islands, 10 books stores in a
four block radius, Sunday afternoon live music at Tulista
Park, summer theatre in the Charlie White Theatre at the Mary
Winspear Centre and a wonderful selection of shops, galleries
and oceanfront restaurants. And don't forget to have a look
around the seven marinas.
Extra Information:
- 30 km north of Victoria
- Resident Population: 11,000
- Visitor Information Centres: Pat Bay Hwy (Hwy 17), Beacon Ave (next to Mary
Winspear Centre) and 5th St & Ocean Ave
- Interesting Website: www.sidney.ca
Information Courtesy of Exploring
The Best Magazine
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