Soames Hill Park

With its incredible breathtaking views, Soames Hill is on the must-see list when visiting Gibsons. It is located just above Gibsons (only 3 kilometres from the Langdale ferry terminal) near Shirley Macey Park, which looks across towards Keats Island and the Strait of Georgia. There are two staircase options and three different viewpoints to take in the changing Autumn leaves, so that can make a difference in how much time you can spend on this rewarding hike. Two locations where you can start the trail are Bridgeman Road and Esperanza Road.

Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives

History buffs will enjoy the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives. It presents the rich history of the Sunshine Coast and its inhabitants. The museum has two floors of exhibits to explore, including a resource room, reference library, and extensive archives with over 9,000 photographs & documents.

Gibsons Visitor Centre

If you’re looking for local experts on all things Gibson, look no further than the Gibsons Visitor Centre. The perfect place to start getting to know the community, the Gibsons Visitor Centre is located in the heart of Gibsons Landing. Here I will get advice and recommendations on how to get the best experience possible when you visit Gibsons. You’ll find maps, visitor guides, brochures, and friendly personal tips about community events, shops, restaurants, recreation, and sights you need to see while visiting Gibsons and Sunshine Coast.

Gibsons Public Art Gallery

If you want to immerse yourself in the artistic side, Gibsons Public Art Gallery is on the list of recommendations for you. It is located in the heart of historic Gibsons and was founded in 2003 to provide free public venues for art exhibitions and education. This Art Gallery has become a local cultural centre promoting artistic creativity and learning. Being a part of the arts and heritage community, this Gallery unites it.

Gibsons Public Market

The Public Market will quickly become your go-to place for stocking up on fresh food, including vegetables, artisanal cheeses and seafood. Afterwards, enjoy strolling the boutique shops and restaurants in The Landing.

Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre

A visit to The Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre (NSMEC) combines adventure and nature. It is a unique aquarium located inside Gibsons Public Market. It has a huge collection of natural habitats, local marine fish and invertebrates from the waters of the Howe Sound. As it is located in Gibsons Public Market, you could have a snack here too!

Gibsons & Area Community Centre

If you prefer active indoor activities, then Gibsons & Area Community Centre is for you. It includes an NHL-sized ice arena, squash and racquetball courts, multi-purpose rooms, a youth centre, drop-in activities, and a weight room. They also have table tennis, pool and foosball in their lobby.

Gibsons & District Public Library

There is no better place than the library to discover new things. The Public Library is located in Lower Gibsons on South Fletcher Road. It is one of the few public spaces that are free and accessible to everyone. It houses plenty of books for any age and interest, and is the workplace for creativity and innovation. It has thousands of books, online books, magazines, newspaper articles and research resources and offers different programs and events for kids, teens and adults. Public computers are also available, so you can book a computer session here. Gibsons & District Public Library also has a great outdoor space with a spectacular view of the ocean. And, who doesn’t love free WIFI?

Bonniebrook Beach

Bonniebrook Beach is considered to be the best beach in Gibsons. It is located in the north of Gibsons. Here you can find both: sections of sand and sections of pebbles. The best sand you can find is near the end of Ocean Beach Esplanade. Bonniebrook Beach stretches over 2 kms, so it’s a great place to go for a long walk. Windsurfing is very popular at this beach. You can enjoy the sun all day, have a picnic, and watch the boats passing by. Bonniebrook Beach, with its breathtaking views and picturesque coastal scenery, is one of the favourite places for tourists and locals.

Shop Local on the Coast

While out and about, check out some local shopping venues, there are some really nice stores in this area. Unique clothing and accessories can be found in some boutiques and stores in Lower Gibsons. Finding a perfect gift to take home is very easy here.  Wander along Marine Drive, Molly’s Lane, and Gower Point Road to discover lots of cute shops. Try the olive oil at Sunshine Coast Olive Oil or browse the racks at Starlet Vintage. Don’t miss the Gibsons Public Market a few blocks south. lt is the place where you could buy freshly baked bread and pastries, seafood, cheese and a variety of local food. It also houses different special events in the city, so you can check out Gibsons Market calendar for upcoming festivals or view the full calendar for an event to pair with your trip.

By the way, The Gibsons Market has Gala Fundraiser & Tribute again this September and we are proud to support it.

Craft Beer and Cider

The craft beer and cider scene are thriving in Gibsons. Gibsons hosts three well-known breweries: The 101 Brewhouse +Distillery, Tapworks Brewing Company and Persephone Brewing Company. In Upper Gibsons, The 101 Brewhouse +Distillery has craft beers and a small restaurant where you will find casual food along with fun events. Locals say it is also the Sunshine Coast’s first craft distillery, making small-batch gin and vodka. Just a few minutes away in Lower Gibsons you will find Tapworks Brewing Company. They are famous not just for their craft beer but for their incredible patio as well. Don’t miss a chance to visit Persephone Brewing Company near the ferry terminal to experience their farm-to-keg brewery. They grow and use their own ingredients themselves. If beer isn’t what you would prefer, Sunday Cider can help you out. They make small-batch craft cider from 100% freshly pressed apples at their cider house in the forest just north of town.

The post 10 Favourite Autumn Activities in Gibsons appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

Gibsons

Armours Beach
Conveniently located as you enter Gibsons, this has long been a favourite swimming beach for kids and families. While you’re here, enjoy a stroll along the sea walk and take in the scenery of Gibsons Landing. Bathroom facilities and picnic tables are available.

Grantham’s Landing
Not only is Grantham’s a great place to fish on its wonderful pier, but you can also find yourself immersed in the atmosphere of the coast and all its wonders in the little pocket of shore at Grantham’s Landing. 

Hopkins Landing
Looking for the perfect place to make a splash? Hop on in at Hopkins Pier! The long stretch of pier and sandy coastline make Hopkins a truly fun beach!

Secret Beach
Make your way down the stepping stone trail to the elusive Secret Beach. Though your access is steep, the beach is a treasure worth exploring, and the views overlooking Georgia Strait and Vancouver Island are breathtaking. 

Bonnie Brook
Ocean Beach Esplanade features more walkers and cyclists than cars and is a favourite for morning walks and sunset strolls. The pebble beach stretches along the coast as the cornerstone of Gibson’s history. Chaster House and Bonnie Brook Lodge are both favourite places to stay on the coast.

Roberts Creek

Roberts Creek Pier
The summer highlight at the Roberts Creek Pier is the annual community painting of the mandala. Check out the mandala or walk down the sand bar to feel like you’re close to the water without diving in. 

Davis Bay

Davis Bay Beach
Known for creating a scenic sense of arrival along the Sunshine Coast Highway with panoramic views of the Salish Sea. This popular and expansive beach has plenty of room for picnic tables and large driftwood logs, whichever suits you. 

Sechelt

Sechelt Waterfront
Walk your dog, chill out with your music or simply watch the waves just one block from downtown. The Rotary club established a great park and playground for picnics. There is a paved walkway the length of downtown Sechelt making it easy for anyone to stroll and enjoy the sea air. At the end of the day, dine seaside in Pebbles Restaurant at the Driftwood Inn.

Halfmoon Bay

Sargeant Bay Provincial Park
Located just off of Redrooffs Road in Halfmoon Bay, the park has washrooms and a rocky beach. A great place for a stroll, it is peaceful and quiet. Sun is mid-morning to mid-afternoon. If you feel like sticking around the Halfmoon Bay area, take a quick five-minute drive north on Redrooffs road and discover the beauty of Welcome Beach.

Trout Lake
A pocket of greenery and the calm waters of Trout Lake make it the perfect lake day coast destination. Fishing, swimming, and kayaking are the best activities that this lush lake has to offer. A perfect sunny day picnic destination. 

Reminders before you enjoy all the beautiful beaches:

• Dogs are welcome, but please keep them on a leash at all times and use waste bags. 
• Bears and other wildlife are known to frequent the area, so please be bear aware.
• Unmarked hazards may exist in parks and on trails 
• Fire safety means checking if your beach allows fires, putting them out safely and only burning when permitted. 
• Always be sure to clean up after yourself.
• Swimming can be dangerous, always swim with caution when no lifeguards are on the premises. 

The post 10 Favourite Beaches on the Sunshine Coast appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

Touchstone recognizes the vital role art plays in enriching and engaging communities. As part of our ongoing Community Arts Program, we encourage locals and visitors alike to enjoy our year-round on-site exhibitions. 

• We proudly showcase a beautifully curated collection of commissioned works from local artists inside the Discovery Centre as well as the future Touchstone Inn
• Our public art installations will be integrated throughout the Touchstone community plaza, Greenlane and various parks, connecting people to each other and this beautiful seaside village. 
• At the heart of our commitment to creativity is our live/work studios – inspired spaces designed for emerging and established artists to thrive in their respective mediums.

COAST CULTURE
Sunshine Coast Arts Scene

Recognized internationally as a hot bed of artistic talent, the Sunshine Coast has become synonymous as one of Western Canada’s top art destinations. 

Featuring a dazzling array of famous, almost famous, and soon to be famous artists. “The Coast” is more than just a recreational and outdoor activity Mecca. Its burgeoning art culture is becoming a key driver for destination tourists looking to immerse themselves in this unique arts community. 

The Annual Sunshine Coast Art Crawl, “The Crawl”, typically held in October, is one of the region’s most popular and anticipated events. It showcases over 400 local artists in over 150 locations, and draws thousands of visitors from around the world.

ARTISTS FEATURED AT TOUCHSTONE

Office Art – Jill Pilon, The Kube Studios

Benches, Coffee, Potter Bowls, Bar Tables and Stools – Kenny Torrance, Barter Design

Candles – Kenny Torrance, Barter Design in partnership with Atelier Harlow

Touchstone Video Production – Dolf Vermeulen 

Gospel Rock Original Painting – Marlene Vermeulen

Visit the Discovery Centre and experience the master-planned vision that is Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

The post Touchstone at Gospel Rock – Community Art Program appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

Sunshine Coast Trails

Getting outdoors and enjoying the sunshine, fresh air, and green grass is one of our favourite ways to spend time on the Sunshine Coast. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite walking and hiking trails for your enjoyment, all within easy reach from Touchstone.

Gibsons

Soames Hill

You can find Soames Hill just above Gibsons. “The Knob” is a 40-minute hike that ranges in difficulty from moderate to strenuous. Access from the east side brings you to the 434-step staircase. These trails are biker friendly but bumpy. Three Geocaches can be found on-site for added exploration fun!

Langdale Falls

This 45-minute hike is part of Sprockids Mountain Bike Park. This steep trail is recommended for skilled bikers and hikers only. The waterfall is slippery, and caution is warned. Look out for Geocaches for added adventure!

BonnieBrook

A Coastal favourite, Bonnie Brook is an easy walk for everyone. This medium-length walk or bike ride is sure to provide amazing views. Enjoy the beach with friends and family any day, all year round.

Lower Gibsons

From the Marina to the shops, Lower Gibsons is your walk and explore destination. Find yourself at the Gazebo boardwalk and make your way to one of the many restaurants, or explore the Marina and see the spectacular island views across the bay. You’re sure to find fascination in the small wonders of Lower Gibsons.

Roberts Creek

Just 10 minutes from Touchstone, Roberts Creek is a one-of-a-kind community with great, family-friendly hikes.

Cliff Gilker

Follow the colour-coded routes for the 1-2 hour hike. Start by seeing the waterfall and head down the bridges and paths. The 7km worth of routes keeps things dynamic and exciting. This is a well-maintained trail, with no biking access permitted.

Roberts Creek Pier

Meet up for the Annual Mandala Painting! Roberts Creek is a quaint town that is full of personality. Walk to the lookout, or make your way to the beach for an easy walk that’s something different.

Davis Bay Pier

You know you’re in Davis Bay when you’ve hit the curve and see the stretch of the Pacific Ocean. This low tide beach makes for incredible walks and beach exploration. The shops and restaurants add to the experience of Davis Bay. Grab a coffee and walk the boardwalk to the incredible pier. The views will never cease to amaze.

Sechelt

Sechelt is just a scenic, 20-minute drive from Gibsons along the winding roads of the Sunshine Coast Highway.

Snickett Park

When a waterfront walk is all that’s needed, visit Snickett Park in Sechelt. The paved walkways make for easy access. Follow the trail to the rock outcroppings to feel truly one with the ocean, or swing left and head to the Beach and Park for a lovely stroll. Local Bill Terry, an expert on Himalayan Blue Poppies, has brought this incredible flower to the coast and can be seen blooming all along the waterfront path. Keep an eye out for Salish Totem Poles. These historical figures add to the beauty that is Snickett park.

Kinnikinnick Park

Whether you want a short walk or a long hike, Kinnikinnick Park has all options ranging from 20 minutes to 3 hours. These colour-coded trails have multiple trail options keeping your trek exciting and dynamic. This old-growth forest is full of life, providing a true BC outdoor experience. Check out the map to see all the access points.

Hidden Grove

With 125 acres of beauty to explore, Hidden Grove is your family-friendly trail with wheelchair accessibility and stroller access. The many networks of trails keep your trek exciting with all levels of difficulty to be found throughout the paths.

This historic trail allows the community to witness the traditions of Bark Stripping that the local shíshálh First Nation communities have been taking part in for thousands of years. Once trees are selected, strips of bark are carefully removed and treated. The strips are then woven into baskets, hats and bowls for ceremonial and day-to-day use. You can see specimens in the Groves that were stripped this way. These markings are important as they identify “culturally modified” trees and areas used by the shíshálh Nation dating back thousands of years.” You can see examples at the Sechelt Indian Band Museum Learn more about Bark Stripping here.

Living at Touchstone puts the best of the Sunshine Coast within easy reach. The trails of the Sunshine Coast offer a wide array of experiences for travellers of all levels and walks of life. Ranging in length, difficulty, and experience, the trails on the Sunshine Coast are the epitome of the pristine beauty and epic landscapes of British Columbia.

The post 10 Favourite Trails on the Sunshine Coast appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

#1 – RAZOR CLAM DIGGING

People living and visiting the Sunshine Coast have a unique opportunity to harvest clams, mussels, and oysters almost year-round. The fall is a great time to hunt for these tasty little treasures, fun and unforgettable activity, and one more reason to enjoy our local beaches.

#2 – MOUNTAIN BIKING

Nothing compares to an autumn forest pedal, especially with the refreshing Sunshine Coast breeze at your back. Our local network of trails provides this and more. Everyone from beginners to expert singletrack-seekers has their stripe of adventure to enjoy and often ride until the first snow hits the ground.

#3 – KITESURFING 

The coastline along the Sunshine Coast is one of the most spectacular along Canada’s West Coast. If you are a kitesurfer, then you’re probably well aware of this fact and know precisely where and when to catch a break. You’ll often find the locals or visitors hit the surf at Davis Bay in Sechelt. It’s an exhilarating experience as long as you have the ability and experience to enjoy the sport safely and confidently.

#4 – PRINCESS LOUISA INLET

Visitors worldwide see this magical fjord; its mountain snowpack creates as many as 60 waterfalls cascading down massive granite walls. Jacques Cousteau once visited this place and called the area one of “the most beautiful anchorages in the world.” Traditionally named swiwelát, Princess Louisa Inlet is charming and scenic, a destination that must be seen and experienced. 

Share with us your fall activities by tagging us in your photos on social media!

The post Top 4 Social Distancing Fall Activities on the Sunshine Coast appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

On Sunday, September 29th, Touchstone hosted its first annual community day, held in support of Habitat for Humanity Sunshine Coast.

Community First
Drawing over 100 people to its Discovery Center in Gibsons, guests enjoyed delicious fare by the Flavour Savor Food Truck, with music sponsored on behalf of the Coast FM team. 

Families were invited to participate in a coloring contest geared towards our support of the Gibsons Wildlife Rehab Center, and kids enjoyed having their faces painted by Miss Carla’s Fancy Faces.

The turn-out was a huge success, and enabled Touchstone to further it’s support of initiatives that support sustainable development, affordable housing, and the care of injured or endangered wildlife. 

Raising Awareness for a great Cause
The event raised over $145.00 for Habitat for Humanity, with Touchstone matching the donations in-kind.

Our community is extremely important to us, as it isn’t just about buildings, it’s about its people. It’s one of the reasons why Touchstone is invested in building partnerships that support social initiatives with impact. Touchstone’s future social spaces will also add richness and diversity to continued community relationships, allowing multiple generations to grow and thrive together.

The post Touchstone Hosts First Annual Community Day appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.

Choosing a nature-centric, coastal lifestyle doesn’t mean going without modern amenities; it simply means having the time to actually enjoy them. Touchstone’s mindfully planned seaside village was designed to enrich the quality of your life.  

Live at One with Natural Life
Imagine living just steps away from BC’s most coveted shoreline and letting the ocean’s ebb and flow dictate your pace of life. Touchstone’s waterfront location connects your life to the ocean with direct access to Gospel Rock and Secret Beach.

Ease into your day with a gorgeous sunrise. Take an evening stroll as the sun slowly drops into the glistening sea. Let the tranquil beauty of the Sunshine Coast reconnect you to the natural world around you.

Experience True Coastal Community
At Touchstone you’ll experience pedestrian friendly streets that are laid out for jaw-dropping views and enhanced sun exposure, generous community greenspaces and linked together by a network of wooded trails and three beautiful parks.

The cultural and social center of the community, Touchstone Plaza is the true heartbeat of the Village, providing landscaped grounds for community events, live music and art. Take an art stroll, sit on the café patio savouring a cappuccino or drop by the local general store to pick up a few key ingredients for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Access Modern Conveniences
Or perhaps venture over to the Touchstone Inn, the community’s boutique hotel, where locals and guests alike can enjoy an array of recreational facilities. Looking to take a cooling dip on a hot summer day? Perhaps a few laps in the comfort of an outdoor pool. Feel like capping off your day with a glass of wine in a beautiful setting? At Touchstone you’re just a stone’s throw away from an elegant rooftop patio lounge that overlooks Howe Sound.

Be at the Heart of it All
Walk the community’s new pathways and woodland trails to favourite scenic sites such as Little Africa, Cross Rock, Secret Beach and Gospel Rock. Enjoy Crayola-coloured wild flowers, eagles overhead and sweet ocean air – all outside your door. Touchstone offers a stunning space to call home, one that’s walkably close to the markets and marinas of Lower Gibsons, and a short ferry ride to West Vancouver.

At Touchstone, connecting with like-minded people and communing with nature is all part of daily life, it’s also your once in a lifetime opportunity to truly design the life you love.

Want to learn more? CLICK HERE to register.

The post Touchstone Inspires a New Way of Living appeared first on Touchstone at Gospel Rock.