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Crofton
Crofton is located just 11 km (7 miles) south of Chemanius and 8
km (5 miles) north of Maple Bay. Along with Crofton are the communities
of Chemanius, Genoa Bay, Maple Bay, Westholme and the surrounding
area on Duncan's north side which make up the Municipality of North
Cowichan.
Henry
Croft
Crofton owes its existence to Henry Croft, an Australian, who had
owned the Lenora copper mine at nearby Mount Sicker just north of
Duncan. Motivated by a high profit margin, Henry Croft established
a copper smelter and workers' housing at Crofton. The mine operated
until 1908, then closed due to the collapse of the price of copper.
Old
School Museum
Located at the Visitor Info Centre near the waterfront is the Old
School Museum which was built in 1905. Displayed in the restored
one-room schoolhouse are many artifacts and photos from Crofton's
past history when the smelter was present from the early 1900's.
If you're waiting for the ferry, there is a nice park called Osborne
Bay Regional Park near the Old School Museum.
BC
Ferries Terminal
There is a BC Ferries terminal located in Crofton with a scheduled
ferry crossing across Stuart Channel to Vesuvius, Saltspring
Island. The trip takes around 30 minutes or so crossing Stuart
Channel. If you're on a schedule travelling to Saltspring Island,
allow yourself lots of time during the summer schedule.
Activities
Around Crofton
Things to do in Crofton include golfing, swimming, fishing, cycling,
walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The community of Chemanius
is close by and is famous for being the Mural Capital of the World.
Duncan has a display of First Nation artwork with totem poles throughout
the city. As well, the Cowichan Region contains many first class
vineyards and wineries offering tours and sample tasting.
Maple
Mountain
If you would like to go for a walk or bike ride when visiting Crofton,
try going up Maple Mountain. The trails and mountain bike paths
are located off Osborne Bay Road. Once on the trails the scenic
ocean views are incredible plus during seasonal times of the year
various wildflowers are in display.
Mount
Richards
Another good walk around Crofton is the one up Mount Richards. Trail
access is just off Roberts Street in Crofton. This fairly short
hiking trail will lead you to up to 359 m (1,178 ft) height level
eventually leading to Crofton Lake.
Catalyst
Crofton Pulp Mill
Present day in Crofton has one of the largest employers in the area
with the Catalyst Crofton Pulp Mill. The mill has operated since
1957 providing jobs both in the pulp and paper industries. Exports
are sent throughout the world utilizing the deep-sea port facility
at Crofton. If you're interested there are free tours available
during the summer.
Osborne
Bay Resort
If you enjoy RV or tent-style camping, Crofton has a great spot
to stay at the Osborne Bay Resort. Located right on Osborne Bay
the resort features waterfront campsites, boat launch and free moorage
for guests, fire pits with free firewood, hot showers, a sea walk,
log cottages and a beach cabin.
Accommodation
For people who don't enjoy camping there is a couple of places right
in Crofton. One is the Crofton by the Sea B&B and Weaving Studio.
The other is the Twin Gables Motel located close to Osborne Bay.
Also throughout the whole Cowichan region, there are various bed
& breakfasts and guest houses all within 30 minutes of Crofton.
Crofton
Hotel
If you would like a meal or entertainment try visiting the newly
renovated Crofton Hotel. The hotel has been in this location for
over 50 years containing a restaurant and pub often with live music
featuring local artists.
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