Arrowsmith Coombs Country

Arrowsmith Coombs Country is a rural area southwest of Parksville/Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island. It is a popular stopping point for travellers on the way to Tofino with the Coombs Old Country Market/Goats on the Roof and the old growth trees in Cathedral Grove.

Understand
Coombs is a small community provincial highway 4A approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) west of Parksville. Coombs is home to approximately 1,300 people. The history of Coombs goes back many years. The Ford House which is the old log house on the old Island Highway was built in early 1900. The house was completed in 1911. Next to the Ford House is the old General Store which also houses the General Post Office. The Fair Grounds is an active place in the summer when the Fall Fair rolls around. The Rodeo Grounds just up the highway heading towards Port Alberni is a successful and active place during the summer months. The railway is also a huge part of the history of Coombs as is the United Church. Just over the French Creek Bridge is the French Creek School which is now closed as a public school was a huge asset to the community for over 100 years.

By car
The main way in is by Highway 4A (the Alberni Highway). It is a 5-10 minute drive from Parksville and about 1 km east of the Junction of Hwy 4 and 4A.

Get around
A car or bike will be needed to get around to all the attractions in the area.

See
For many, the main reason to stop in Coombs is to see the goats on the roof of the Old Country Market (see listing in Buy section below). The area isn't just about the goats though, here are some other things to check out if you have the time.



Sleep


More lodging is available in Parksville and Qualicum Beach.

Cope

 * The nearest hospital is in Nanaimo, though it takes almost the same time to reach the hospital in Port Alberni.