Crazy for cocoa? Can’t get enough of the dark chocolate stuff? Head for Vancouver Island and follow a chocolate trail that will lead you from the ever-so-English sophistication of Victoria to the storm swept shores of Tofino.
Begin your quest for chocolate in Victoria at Roger’s Chocolates (www.rogerschocolates.com). First made in 1885 in the back of the Charles W. Rogers Grocery Store they have become a confectionary legend, famous for using only the best of ingredients.
Head “up island” to Shawnigan Lake to find Moziro Coffee Roasters and Chocolatiers (www.moziro.com) . Sip a freshly roasted brew while you watch as enticing chocolate delicacies are prepared before your eyes.
Take a side strip to Salt Spring Island to discover Harlan’s Chocolates (www.harlanchocolates.com). These delectable treats are fashioned from pure Belgian chocolate and French Bellcolade Chocolate laced with nuts, cream, and natural flavorings.
Back on “the” island it’s time to head to north to the Comox Valley and a family run shop called “Hot Chocolate.” All the candies are handmade and range from truffles to nut barks, fudges and creams. The focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients so the menu is ever changing.
Hop across the water again to Denman Island and Denman Island Chocolates (www.denmanislandchocolate.com) . In keeping with the natural spirit of the island the chocolates feature organic ingredients such as freshly toasted hazelnuts, dried raspberries, pure mint and bittersweet dark Belgian chocolate.
Last, head across the island to the windswept shores of Tofino to discover such delights as Clayoquot Blackberry Butter cream chocolates at Chocolate Tofino (www.chocolatetofino.com) . Chocolatier Gordon Austin has been making people happy with his signature chocolates made from local ingredients for many years.
