TRAVEL LIKE A LOCAL | Top 10,000 Places to Visit in Canada
The page created by Annabella Stoll-Dansereau | University of British Columbia | Photo by Kalamazadkhan, CC-BY-SA-4.0
This general store is only a short hill from the ferry terminal. Established in 1908, this is one of the oldest things on the island. Acting as a small grocery store and local product supplier, it is sure to have something of interest to you. It also serves as a visitors center with maps of the island.
One important thing to note it this place is cash only, so make sure you have some bills and not just your card!
Photo: https://visitdenmanisland.ca/listings/denman-island-general-store/
This small specialty middle eastern inspired shop offers handmade organic bread and small batched vegan ice cream. While the bread is fantastic, the ice cream steals the show with adventurous flavours like cardamom mocha and masala-chai. You can even get dipped cones or ice cream sandwiches. While there isn’t the most variety in this small shop, the few things they sell do very well.
This place offers to lodge if you don’t have a place to stay; however, it also serves as a bistro selling bites of food to eat and coffee. Additionally, a host of events happen here, usually involving local musicians. They would have a live stream of the last performance if you wanted to check out the vibes on the website. Make sure to see if your dates align with events at this establishment.
Photo: https://visitdenmanisland.ca/listings/denman-guesthouse-bistro-hostel-earth-club-factory/
Gordon Huchens, an internationally known potter, has shown his work in Canada, the U.S. and Japan. He welcomes the public into his studio, where he will discuss his techniques and inspiration. This is an ideal place to visit if you are interested in ceramics and wish to learn more about the man behind the beautiful art pieces.
Sometimes he hosts events such as the Anagama kiln firing event, so check if your dates align with any special events.
Photo: Janet Dwyer, gordonhutchens.com
Suppose you didn’t want the intimate tour of the Gordons studio and wanted to see his work; you could go to the Denman Craft Shop. Here his work is displayed for purchase alongside over 50 other island artists. While this shop is tiny, you are guaranteed to find a unique item you could bring back home.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/DenmanCraftShop/
Did you remember to bring a book to Denman Island? If not, or you want a new one-stop by Abraxas Books. This independently owned bookstore promises to expose you to new voices you might otherwise not find in the large chain bookstores. But you can also find the most popular in-demand books.
To check out if they have a book you want, you can search it on their website, but in my opinion, it is more fun to check it out in person and see what catches your eye. They even sell coffee you can enjoy while looking for your next read.
Photo: Google Street View
This farm primarily produces vegetables bought at the farmers market, local grocery store or from the stand at the farm directly. This family-run and operated farm was established by Emily, a Toronto native and Sam from Scotland. Now they focus on elevating the Denman Island food community by providing fresh, delicious vegetables.
If you go to Denman Island, show this farm your support.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/tworoadsfarm.ca/
When you arrive at Denman Island or are about to leave, stop by the Curve café. Here you can get classic café items like muffins, cookies, and extra, unexpected things like samosas or ice cream.
The ferry lineups can sometimes get very long heading off the island, so if this is the case, fear not. This little pop-up café will keep you up and happy while waiting in line!
