Metchosin: Community Information
This area is a picturesque rural community with large area of farmland. Outdoor activities such as horseback riding, nature trails, parks, a golf course, beach combing, bird-watching, fishing and a variety of small lakes are very popular attractions here in Metchosin. Typical of a rural environment many small farms are connected by wonderful winding country roads. Some farms offer organic produce for sale. In the summertime The Farmer’s Market offers local fruit and vegetables, homemade breads, jams and pickles, and “free range” eggs. Pearson College of the Pacific is situated in Metchosin.
Metchosin Neighbourhoods: Happy Valley, Matheson Lake, Rocky Point, William Head, Albert Head, and the Kangaroo Road areas.
Parts of the community are served by a community water system however there are large parts that are serviced by private wells. Septic tanks and septic fields are the norm. There are also some private sewage systems. There is limited bus service throughout the area, both for public transport and for schools.
Metchosin is made up of several neighbourhoods. It is a rural area on the coast, and agriculture sits at the forefront of its industry. The municipality has imposed a 1 and 2 acre lot size bylaw to preserve the area’s rural lifestyle.
Estimated Distance / Travel Time from Metchosin:
- to Swartz Bay Ferry: 44 km / 55 min;
- to Victoria International Airport: 39 km / 50 min;
- to Downtown Victoria: 23 km / 30 min.
Population
The population is less than 5,000.
Location
Metchosin is located in the Western Communities of Greater Victoria, about 20 km west of downtown Victoria. The area is hilly, and Mount Matheson rises above Matheson Lake in the southwest part of Metchosin.
Schools
Metchosin lies within the boundaries of School District 62. It is also home to world-renowned private schools, West-Mont School and Lester B. Pearson College of the Pacific (United World Colleges).
Recreation
Metchosin is known for its numerous regional and recreational parks. The trails are well-maintained and offer vast ocean and lake views. Some of the more popular parks include Matheson Lake, Devonian Park, Albert Head and Witty’s lagoon, and are a draw for both locals and tourists. The area is accessible by bicycle along the CRD’s Galloping Goose Trail and is a destination for cyclists because of the scenic and challenging rides it offers.
Horseback riding, nature trails and parks are common in the district, which also offers a number of golf courses. Matheson Lake is popular for swimming and hiking. Witty’s Lagoon is an oceanfront area for a variety of sports and for relaxation. Pedder Bay is well known for its fishing and Metchosin is the setting for Pearson College, which attracts students from all over the world. As the area is mainly rural, there are a variety of farm-related organizations and horse and riding clubs.
Economy
Many of those living in Metchosin farm vegetables, orchards, poultry, sheep, and some pigs and cattle. The majority of residents in the area are retired or work outside the community. As many residents work in Victoria, Metchosin’s economy indirectly benefits from tourism. There are a large number of home-based businesses as well, ranging from health services to international consulting.