Leaving Annette Inlet we traveled 23 miles on calm water under blue skies to Ladysmith B.C. Since our last visit the Ladysmith Marina has changed hands. It is now operated by the Stz’uminus First Nation, the new name is Oyster Bay Marina. For now, they are off to a slow start, the restaurant is closed and the 900-foot transit pier had no more than four vessels visiting during our stay.
Although the Marina seems to be struggling we really enjoyed our stay. The Cowichan Valley Trail provided a great getaway for some quiet contemplation. The focus of the town seemed to be the Old Town Bakery which opened in 1932 and are widely known for their cinnamon buns. They offer nine flavors daily, with a monthly special. When I was there the flavor of the day was Peanut Butter-Cream Cheesecake. The fun part is that it is more than a walk-in walk-out bakery, it is a place where the locals gather to chat as they consume irresistible pastry or a savory lunch. The lady decorating cakes told me that on Saturdays they often churn out over 1,000 cinnamon buns.
One of our favorite memories of being at marina will be of the Purple Martin’s serenading us each morning and evening.
