Attractions and Places To See around Courtenay - Top 9
Best attractions and places to see around Courtenay include historical sites and religious buildings. This region features medieval architecture, including castles and churches, alongside scenic viewpoints. Visitors can explore ancient towns with rich histories and significant landmarks. The area offers a blend of cultural exploration and historical discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Courtenay
- The most popular attractions is Château de la Motte, a castle that was first built in 1121 as an octagonal medieval fortress. It…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Château-Renard
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Viewpoint overlooking Château-Renard
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Château de la Motte
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Saint-Hilaire Church and village model
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Oil pump
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Tips from the Community
Very pleasant walk.
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Saint Hilaire was a bishop in Poitiers. Quite a badass, he was highly respected and admired in his time. And his fame made him chosen after his death as Patron Saint until now.
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A little history on this Gâtinais oil!
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Oil pump reconstructed here, which tells us that an area of oil was discovered in Gâtinais at the end of the 1950s and is still exploited today.
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Nice view of the city, located. near the remains of the old feudal castle. We discover the old houses of this medieval city as well as the castle of La Motte in the background.
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Ancient medieval town of Gâtinais, the village of Château-Renard is a small town steeped in history housing numerous historic monuments and old houses, including the Jeanne d'Arc house dating from the 15th century which now houses the Tourist Office , as well as the old church dating from the 12th and 13th centuries perched on the hill overlooking the town and surrounded by the ruins of the fortified castle, but also the Château de la Motte, the first octagonal-shaped medieval castle. The latter was first built in 1120 and notably welcomed Charles VIII in 1429. A century later, it was François I who signed there in 1539 the edict of the Blanque which brought about the creation of the Royal Lottery, ancestor of the National Lottery. The castle was dismantled on the orders of King Charles IX in 1568 during the Wars of Religion when it belonged to the family of Gaspard de Coligny, the famous Protestant admiral assassinated during the Saint Bartholomew's Day massacre. In 1609, Coligny's daughter rebuilt the castle on the foundations of the old medieval fortress. This castle, one of the most beautiful in the department, is unfortunately not very visible from the road, because it is hidden behind tall vegetation. Private property, it is not open to visits.
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The first castle of the Middle Ages in the shape of an octagon, which was built in 1121. It was dismantled during the wars of religion on the orders of Charles IX then rebuilt by Louise de Coligny, the daughter of Admiral de Coligny, murdered during the Saint-Barthélémy Day massacre.
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This church deserves a visit for its architecture and its magnificent stained glass windows. Inside, there are sometimes quite interesting exhibits. You will also find a model of the city in miniature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Courtenay, British Columbia?
Courtenay offers a wealth of natural beauty. You can visit picturesque waterfalls like Nymph Falls, known for swimming and salmon viewing, or Browns River Falls with its unique multi-cascade features. The Puntledge River is excellent for swimming and tubing, while Comox Lake provides freshwater beaches. For coastal experiences, Kye Bay Beach and Goose Spit Regional Park are popular for their warm, shallow waters and scenic strolls.
Are there good hiking and walking trails in the Courtenay area?
Yes, Courtenay boasts numerous trails. Seal Bay Nature Park and Hurford Hill Nature Park offer diverse hiking options. The Courtenay Riverway provides scenic paths along the river, connecting different community areas. For a more challenging experience, Strathcona Provincial Park is accessible, and the Bear Bait Trail offers a 4.7 km path along the Puntledge River through a scenic forest.
What cultural and historical sites can I visit in Courtenay?
Delve into local history at the Courtenay & District Museum & Paleontology Centre, which showcases natural and cultural history, including BC's Provincial Fossil. The HMCS Alberni Museum and Memorial provides insights into Canadian wartime experiences. Downtown Courtenay itself is a cultural hub with art galleries like the Comox Valley Art Gallery and I-Hos Gallery, and the historic Sid Williams Theatre hosts various performing arts events.
What are some family-friendly activities available in Courtenay?
Families will enjoy the warm, shallow waters and marine life exploration at Kye Bay Beach. Lewis Park and Simms Millennium Park are great for recreation. The Courtenay & District Museum & Paleontology Centre offers engaging exhibits for all ages. Tubing down the Puntledge River is a popular summer activity, and exploring the trails at Seal Bay Nature Park can be fun for the whole family.
Where can I go for outdoor recreation during winter in Courtenay?
During winter, Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a prime destination for downhill skiing and snowboarding. While many trails remain accessible for winter walks, checking local conditions is always recommended. Goose Spit Regional Park is also frequented year-round for beach strolls.
What are the best places for swimming in Courtenay?
The Puntledge River, particularly at Lewis Park and Puntledge Park, is a popular spot for swimming and tubing in summer. Comox Lake offers freshwater swimming with beaches on both the Cumberland and Courtenay sides. For ocean swimming, Kye Bay Beach is a local favorite, known for its warm, shallow waters.
Are there any unique spa experiences in Courtenay?
Yes, the Kingfisher Hydropath offers a unique spa experience. It features heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, saunas, and steam caves, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating retreat.
Where can I find local products and craft beverages in Courtenay?
The Comox Valley Farmer's Market is an excellent place to discover local products and connect with the community. For craft beverages, Courtenay has a growing craft beer scene with breweries like Gladstone Brewing and Land & Sea Brewing Company offering tastings.
What is Downtown Courtenay like for visitors?
Downtown Courtenay is a vibrant area with independent shops, cafes, and public art, including unique murals. Fifth Street is known as a local shopping mecca, offering boutiques, gift shops, bookstores, and eclectic coffee shops. It's a great place to explore local culture and find unique items.
Can I see any significant natural landmarks near Courtenay?
Absolutely. The majestic Comox Glacier rises above the city of Courtenay, offering a stunning backdrop. The Courtenay River Estuary is also a highly productive ecosystem where multiple creeks and rivers meet the Salish Sea, providing a significant natural feature.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around Courtenay?
The diverse ecosystems around Courtenay, from the estuary to the forests and rivers, support various wildlife. You can often spot salmon in rivers like Nymph Falls during the fall. The Courtenay River Estuary is a rich habitat for birds and marine life. Exploring parks like Seal Bay Nature Park may offer opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Are there any historical buildings to see in Courtenay?
Beyond the museums, Courtenay has notable historic buildings such as the Billy Booth House, an example of early homes, and the Native Sons Hall, a long-standing community gathering place. The Former Canadian Pacific Railway Station (Via Rail) also holds historical importance.
What are some popular beaches in the Courtenay area?
Kye Bay Beach is a local favorite, known for its warm, shallow waters, giant rocks, and driftwood. Kin Beach features unique driftwood sculptures, and Goose Spit Regional Park is frequented year-round for its shores and beach fires. Saratoga Beach, a bit further north, is also popular for its calm ocean tides.
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