10 Can't Miss Experiences Along the Flavour Trails

The North Saanich Flavour Trails is a route linking the rural tapestry of makers, bakers, growers, harvesters and chefs along the Saanich Peninsula. From August 17-19, indulge in handmade treats, discover the natural landscape, sip craft beer and discover the Saanich Peninsula. Whether you drive or cycle this route, The Flavour Trails is a culinary experience you won’t want to miss this year.

Gala Dinner | 1195 Chalet Road

Kick off the North Saanich Flavour Trails with a gala dinner at Deep Cove Winery on Friday, August 16. Indulge in a seasonal 4-course farm-to-table menu accompanied by some incredible local music in the with the vineyard as the backdrop to this enchanting evening.

North Saanich Farm Market | 10990 W Saanich Road

Each Saturday between 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., June through to October, local farmers, growers and makers set up shop in the garden of St. John’s United Church to sell seasonal produce, handmade crafts, locally raised meat, baked goods and so much more! 

As the official starting point of the North Saanich Flavour trails on Saturday, August 17, you’ll want to get out of bed early to be the first in line for your still-warm baked goods and just-picked produce!

Dominion Brook Park | 8801 E Saanich Road

On Sunday, take a guided tour of this 100+ year-old park that spans 11 acres in North Saanich. Home to local wildlife, expansive views and a newly constructed stone footbridge which uses only gravity, friction and shape to hold it up. 

Melinda’s Biscotti | 10134 McDonald Park Road

From humble beginnings, Melinda’s Biscotti has grown into a delightful empire. Visit their beautiful café, enjoy biscotti samplings and take a behind the scenes tour into the daily operations of their famous biscotti and meringues.

Roost Farm Winery | 9100 E Saanich Road

Situated on a beautiful vineyard, discover this quaint farmhouse offering farm-to-table meals in the bistro and tasty treats from their bakery. Indulge in a wood-fired pizza and charcuterie board with their own wine as a pairing and then take a farm tour and learn about their bee program, milling operation, the cellar and more! Discover more about Roost here.

Howl Brewery | 1780 Mills Road 

Already making big waves in the craft beer scene, discover this small bath, nano-brewery nestled on a farm in North Saanich. They’ll be serving up a specialty blackberry lavender ale for Flavour Trails, so visiting Howl Brewery along the route is a must.

Pancake Breakfast | 1720 McTavish Road

On Sunday, August 18, kick-off the last day of the Flavour Trails in style as you indulge in pancakes loaded with seasonal local berries and real whipped cream! Then dance the morning away to live music in the field.

Deep Cove Winery | 11195 Chalet Road

Ideally nestled in the warmest spot of the region between Horth Hill Regional Park and Deep Cove, this winery takes pride in producing small-batch, hand-crafted wines. Sample wine in their tasting room and then wander through the vineyard.

The Fickle Farm Market | 1780 Mills Road

Discover this year-round farm market, bakery and bistro with an Italian flair. Located in the sweetest rustic space offering up indoor and outdoor seating along with delicious offerings, The Fickle Fig market is a charming spot to recharge and refuel as you make your way along the route.

10 Acres Farm | 1402 McTavish Road

If you’ve dined at 10 Acres Bistro, Commons or Kitchen you may already know that much of their food is sourced from their own farm on the Saanich Peninsula. Now’s your chance to visit the 10 Acres Farm, take a tour of the greenhouse, fields and orchards, and visit the free-range animals. 

Bonus: Food of the Festival Basket

Get your official festival picnic hamper from the grower’s paradise. These specially curated picnic hampers are filled with a variety of delicacies all grown and produced in North Saanich. You can enjoy the best of the Flavour Trails in the meadow of your choosing. Find what’s inside here.
 

No matter where your journey takes you along the Saanich Peninsula, this rural ramble and feast of the senses is a must experience between August 16-18.