Community Guide

Arrowsmith Coombs Country, BC

Nestled between the majestic Mount Arrowsmith and the coastal waters of Central Island, the Arrowsmith-Coombs region is a delightful blend of natural beauty and community flair.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy a strong sense of community, with local halls, seasonal markets, and friendly events woven into daily life. 

Arrowsmith Coombs Country is a hidden gem where creativity, comfort, and natural beauty meet.

Here mountain views, creative culture, and country living create a truly unique island experience. The region offers a rich mix of pastoral beauty, quirky attractions, and outdoor adventure on central Vancouver Island.

Framed by the towering presence of Mount Arrowsmith, this rural area is best known for its creative spirit—epitomized by the famous Coombs Old Country Market with its rooftop goats and eclectic local shops. Winding country roads lead to farms, artist studios, and markets, while nearby trails and parks invite hiking, biking, and nature exploration. The community blends rustic living with local flavor, all within a laid-back pace, scenic surroundings, and a strong sense of community.

Expect a warm welcome, a slower pace, and a delightful blend of forest, farm, and sea when you explore this endearing corner of Vancouver Island.

 

On The Map

The heart of the region is the community of Coombs, situated along Highway 4A (also known as the Alberni Highway), just west of Parksville.

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Get Outside

From forest hikes to mountain climbs and pastoral trails, this region is a playground for nature lovers

Arrowsmith Coombs Country is a vibrant outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, where lush forests meet sweeping farmland and mountain vistas.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore winding trails up Mount Arrowsmith or wander through the mossy old-growth woods near Little Qualicum Falls. Cyclists and trail runners will find peaceful backroads and gravel paths that meander past farm fields and quiet creeks. The area is also home to scenic parks with swimming holes, picnic areas, and natural waterfalls—perfect for families and day-trippers. In winter, snowshoeing or ski touring on the mountain offers a serene alpine escape. Whether it’s paddling serene rivers, birdwatching in woodlands, or launching horseback adventures through rolling hills, Arrowsmith Coombs Country provides diverse paths to reconnect with nature.

SHOP & DINE

Rooftop goats & artisanal cafés - explore a food and retail scene full of soul and local character.

Shopping and dining is this region is as unique as the landscape. The iconic Coombs Old Country Market steals the spotlight with its goats grazing on the rooftop and a delightful mix of fresh produce stalls, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted gifts.

Scattered among the rural roads are cozy farm stands and local artisan shops selling handmade pottery, preserves, and heirloom-grown plants. When hunger strikes, charming cafés and family-run bistros serve up farm-to-table breakfasts, hearty lunches, and decadent baked goods—many featuring produce grown just a few steps away. Whether you’re hunting for a quirky keepsake or savoring a slow-cooked meal with valley views, this region delivers a slice of small-town charm with every bite and browse.

Accommodations

Find peaceful stays surrounded by nature’s best.

Arrowsmith Coombs Country offers a range of delightful accommodations that reflect the region’s rustic serenity and creative soul.

Visitors can spend the night in tucked-away cabins and woodland cottages, perfect for unwinding under a canopy of old-growth firs. Farm stays and bed & breakfasts provide countryside comforts, often with fresh breakfasts sourced straight from nearby fields. For those seeking a bit more space, charming vacation homes and heritage estates offer room to gather and relax among pastoral settings. Whether you’re craving a peaceful solo weekend in the woods or a family escape with sweeping valley views, this region’s hospitality welcomes you with warmth, quiet charm, and a deep connection to nature.

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Real Estate & Rentals

From pastoral acreages to cozy cottages, this region offers diverse living options steeped in charm

The area boasts a unique real estate landscape that caters to a range of lifestyles—from hobby farmers and nature lovers to artists and families seeking space.

Choose from expansive rural acreages with room for gardens, orchards, or equestrian pursuits, or explore heritage homes and renovated farmhouses nestled among rolling fields and trails. Quaint cottages and vacation homes, often available as seasonal rentals, offer cozy retreats just steps from local markets and parks. Whether you’re planning a permanent move or a part-time countryside getaway, this area provides a mix of character-filled properties, affordable land, and community-driven living in a serene, forest-and-farm setting.

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Amenities

Bringing together a thoughtful blend of rustic amenities and communal warmth.

The region is served by charming community halls where local events, workshops, and social gatherings unfold regularly—perfect for connecting with neighbours and local culture.

Quaint libraries and resource centres offer easy access to books, programs, and community news. Outdoor enthusiasts benefit from well-maintained parks, playgrounds, and picnic areas nestled in forest and creekside landscapes. Farm stands and seasonal markets provide fresh, local produce and artisan goods, while basic services like postal outlets, volunteer fire departments, and primary schools ensure daily needs are met. Visitors and residents can expect a supportive infrastructure that enhances rural living without sacrificing convenience—or the peaceful beauty of farm, forest, and mountain surroundings.

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Real Estate & rentals

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