Nothing says charm like a small town with historic buildings lining quaint streets, ocean views, and boats bobbing in a calm harbour.
This spot in B.C. is as picturesque as it gets, with a hidden gem feel to it that’ll have you tempted to make it a forever home.
Ladysmith was shouted out among the best small towns in Canada to live in, by Narcity readers — and it feels like it could be the backdrop to a Hallmark movie.
The heritage main street in town has beautiful architecture, lots of shops, and restaurants to visit. It’s got that balance of being lively, without being busy.
You can spend your day bopping around town, grabbing a coffee from In the Beantime Cafe (yes, even the business names here are cute), shopping at the boutiques, and exploring the local restaurant scene.
The views from this town are unmatched, and Transfer Beach Park is along the waterfront and where you’ll find kayak rental spots, and even a community art gallery. It’s right at the bottom of the town, making lunchtime swims and after-dinner waterfront strolls easy.
If you want a change of scenery you can wander into the lush forest trails at Holland Creek.
Jack Point and Biggs Park is also just 20 minutes away and full of stunning views, and sandstone bluffs along the coast.
Ladysmith is one of a few dreamy seaside towns in Cowichan – a region on Vancouver Island.Surrounding it are other small communities, scenic farmlands, and the local creative community for which the area is known.
The town is about an hour and a half away from the city of Victoria (the main hub on the island), and just 20 minutes from Nanaimo.
It’s the perfect blend of access to city amenities, while still having a small-town feel, slow pace, and nature surrounding it.
Another perk of life here? The Ladysmith Tourism website says that it has a “Mediterranean-like climate,” which “brings dry, sunny summers and mild winters.”
The beauty, charm, and weather of this spot also comes at a reasonable price tag. Living Wage BC calculates the “the hourly amount that someone needs to earn to meet their basic expenses,” and lists the Cowichan Valley’s at $25.71.
Compared to Metro Vancouver’s living wage of $27.05 and Victoria’s of $26.78 – that’s a win.
All in all, life in Ladysmith sounds pretty good.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.