On a beautiful Saturday morning at 8:00 AM, we joined a yoga class led by Candice, one of the incredible instructors from Spinco Victoria. From the moment the class began, her calming voice set the tone for the morning. She created the perfect balance between relaxation and movement—it felt peaceful and grounding while still giving us a great workout.

What made it even more memorable was the setting. We were practicing yoga high above the forest at Malahat SkyWalk, surrounded by breathtaking views of Southern Vancouver Island. As the morning sun rose over the mountains and ocean, we stretched, breathed, and moved through our practice while feeling completely immersed in nature.

 

Why Malahat SkyWalk Is So Special

If you haven’t visited yet, Malahat SkyWalk is one of Vancouver Island’s most unique attractions. Located just north of Victoria, the experience begins with a beautiful elevated boardwalk winding through the treetops before leading to a stunning spiral tower that rises nearly 250 meters above sea level.

The Malahat Skywalk Spiral Tower (Victoria, BC)

From the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of:

• Finlayson Arm
• Saanich Peninsula
• Mount Baker
• The Gulf Islands
• Dense West Coast forests stretching as far as the eye can see

Being up there before the crowds arrived felt magical. We were practically the only ones on the SkyWalk, making the experience even more peaceful and intimate. There was something surreal about practicing yoga in the sky while taking in some of the most beautiful views on Vancouver Island.

A Little Diet Coke Moment

The morning was made even sweeter thanks to Lisa, who surprised us with matching Diet Coke hats she picked up during a recent trip to Scottsdale, Arizona. If you know us, you know our love for a little Diet Coke moment, so naturally we wore them proudly and snapped plenty of photos.

The matching hats quickly became the unofficial accessory of the day and added a fun touch to an already memorable morning.

Lunch with a View at The Eyrie Resort

After yoga, we headed to The Eyrie Resort for a scenic lunch overlooking the mountains and ocean.

The views were absolutely spectacular. Sitting by the windows, enjoying fresh food and good conversation after a morning of movement, felt like the perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty of Vancouver Island.

My meal was packed with fresh greens, avocado toast, perfectly poached eggs, and vibrant vegetables—a nourishing choice after yoga. Between the incredible food, stunning scenery, and wonderful company, it was one of those afternoons you wish could last a little longer.

A Perfect Vancouver Island Morning

This experience was such a wonderful reminder of how important it is to make time for movement, friendship, and being outdoors.

Yoga in the sky, breathtaking views, matching Diet Coke hats, and lunch at The Eyrie Resort—it truly was one of those picture-perfect Vancouver Island mornings that fills your cup in every way.

If you ever have the opportunity to attend a special event at Malahat SkyWalk, don’t hesitate. Whether you’re there for yoga, a walk among the treetops, or simply to take in the views, it’s an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to the beauty around you. ✨

Location: Malahat SkyWalk, Vancouver Island, British Columbia
After-Yoga Lunch: The Eyrie Resort at Malahat Summit
Instructor: Candice from Spinco Victoria
Vibe: Peaceful, energizing, scenic, and unforgettable. 💙

The post Yoga in the Sky at Malahat SkyWalk appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

They become memories. They become places, seasons, family traditions and little pieces of home that stay with us no matter where life takes us.

For me, COWS is one of those things.

So when I started thinking about how I wanted to celebrate my 55th birthday, I knew I wanted something fun, nostalgic and meaningful.

And I chose a theme that might seem a little unexpected.

COWS. 🐄

But if you know Prince Edward Island, you probably understand.

COWS isn’t just ice cream. It’s part of the Island experience.

It’s Cavendish. It’s summer. It’s waffle cones. It’s family outings. It’s that feeling of walking around PEI on a beautiful summer day with a scoop of ice cream in your hand.

For me, COWS is also a little taste of home.

Why COWS Felt Perfect for My 55th Birthday

Turning 55 naturally made me think about memories.

The older we get, the more we realize that some of the most meaningful things aren’t necessarily the biggest or most expensive moments.

Sometimes it’s a smell.

A song.

A familiar place.

Or a taste that takes you right back to another time.

For me, COWS brings back that feeling of being on Prince Edward Island.

It reminds me of summers, Cavendish and all those little moments that make PEI special.

So instead of choosing a traditional birthday theme, I wanted to celebrate 55 with something that represented fun, home and nostalgia.

COWS felt absolutely perfect.

And the more I learned about the company, the more I realized there was so much more to COWS than the ice cream cone we all know and love.

From One Little Shop in Cavendish to a PEI Icon

COWS began in 1983 in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, using an old fashioned family ice cream recipe.

The idea was simple.

Make really good ice cream.

Rather than chasing the cheapest or fastest way to produce it, COWS focused on rich ingredients, traditional methods and creating something genuinely indulgent.

What started as a little ice cream shop eventually became one of the most recognizable brands associated with Prince Edward Island.

And that Island connection is still a huge part of what makes COWS special.

So Why Does COWS Ice Cream Taste So Good? 🍦

Let’s talk about the ice cream.

Because honestly, this is where COWS really shines.

COWS says its ice cream is made with 100% Prince Edward Island milk, fresh cream and real eggs. It contains 16% butterfat, and its traditional recipe is churned slowly with limited air incorporated into the mixture.

You can taste the difference.

COWS ice cream doesn’t have that light, airy texture you sometimes get from mass market ice cream.

It’s dense, silky, rich and incredibly creamy.

Then there are the flavours.

COWS is known for loading its flavours with things you can actually see and taste. Think English toffee, chocolate flakes, caramel, cheesecake pieces, fruit and other delicious additions.

It’s not shy ice cream.

It’s the kind of ice cream that makes you stop talking for a minute because you’re too busy enjoying it.

And Then There’s the Butter 🧈

I have to talk about the butter.

Because if you’ve ever spread COWS salted butter over warm bread and thought, “Why does this taste so much better?”, you’re not imagining it.

COWS Creamery makes butter using PEI milk, continuing the same commitment to quality that runs through the rest of the brand.

There is something wonderful about really good butter.

Put it on warm bread.

Add a little salt.

That’s it.

Sometimes the simplest foods are the ones where quality matters most.

COWS Cheese Might Be the Hidden Star 🧀

Now we get to a part of the COWS story that I think many people don’t know about.

The cheese.

COWS expanded into cheese making in the 2000s, and one of its most famous cheeses is Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar.

The inspiration came from traditional cheddar making in the Orkney Islands of Scotland.

Avonlea is made in the traditional clothbound style and aged to develop its flavour and character.

Instead of a mild, ordinary cheddar, you get something much more complex.

It’s firm, nutty, tangy and full of flavour.

And I love that this part of the story still connects back to PEI.

The milk, the Island, the craftsmanship and the traditional approach all come together in one beautiful piece of cheese.

The COWS T-Shirts Were an Unexpected Success

And then there’s the part of the COWS story that has nothing to do with dairy—and somehow became just as iconic.

The cow T-shirts. 🐄

In the 1980s, COWS employees began wearing cow-themed shirts. Tourists started asking if they could buy them, and in 1987, PEI graphic artist Marc Gallant created the whimsical cow designs that became a huge part of the brand’s identity.

What started as something fun for employees became an entire merchandise phenomenon.

That’s very COWS.

They’ve always managed to combine really good food with a sense of humour.

So Why Does COWS Taste So Different?

I think it comes down to a few things:

PEI milk.
COWS says PEI milk is the only milk it uses for its ice cream.

High butterfat.
That 16% butterfat level contributes to the rich, creamy texture.

Less air.
The ice cream is churned slowly with limited air incorporated, giving it that wonderfully dense consistency.

Traditional methods.
Rather than chasing the cheapest or fastest production method, COWS has held onto the old-fashioned character of its original recipe.

Real ingredients.
Fresh cream, real eggs and substantial mix-ins make the flavours feel indulgent and satisfying.

Put all of that together and you get something that tastes very different from ordinary mass-market ice cream.

But I Think There’s Another Ingredient: Memory ❤️

And this might be the biggest one for me.

COWS isn’t just ice cream.

It’s PEI summers.

It’s Cavendish.

It’s walking around with a melting waffle cone in your hand.

It’s the smell of fresh waffle cones.

It’s a beach day followed by ice cream.

It’s Charlottetown.

It’s family vacations.

It’s Anne of Green Gables country.

It’s that feeling you get when something tastes exactly like a place you love.

COWS has become so closely connected to the Prince Edward Island experience that visiting one of its Island locations feels like part of the vacation itself. COWS currently lists locations in places including Cavendish and Charlottetown, as well as several other Canadian cities.

And if you grew up on PEI, I think that connection goes even deeper.

A tourist might taste really good ice cream.

But someone with PEI memories tastes summer.

The COWS Formula

Maybe that’s why I keep coming back to this simple idea:

PEI milk + quality ingredients + higher butterfat + traditional methods + a little Island nostalgia = ridiculously good dairy. ❤️🐄

From ice cream to butter to cheddar, COWS has managed to turn something as simple as milk into a genuine PEI experience.

And honestly?

I’ll take a scoop of COWS in Cavendish on a summer afternoon over almost any fancy dessert.

Give me a waffle cone, a beautiful PEI day and a flavour that’s packed with chunks of something delicious.

That’s happiness.

Have you tried COWS?

What’s your favourite flavour—or are you more of a butter and cheddar person?

Tell me in the comments. 🐄🍦🧈🧀

The post COWS, PEI & Turning 55: Why I Chose COWS as My Birthday Theme 🐄🍦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

The good news? You can achieve a similar polished look for a fraction of the price. This week, I’m sharing three of my favorite designer-inspired Amazon finds that capture the essence of iconic luxury bags while keeping your budget intact.

1. The Woven Tote: Quiet Luxury for Everyday

A woven tote is one of those bags that never goes out of style. It’s roomy enough for work, travel, or weekend errands while instantly making any outfit look more sophisticated.

The luxury version features handwoven leather craftsmanship with a price tag of over $10,000.

The Amazon alternative offers the same oversized woven aesthetic for around $70, making it an easy choice for anyone who loves effortless elegance without the splurge.

Why I love it:

• Spacious enough for work or travel
• Neutral color pairs with everything
• Classic woven texture
• Perfect everyday luxury-inspired tote

Luxury Price: $10,500
Amazon Alternative: Around $70

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Woven Tote Here:
👉 AMAZON WOVEN TOTE

2. The Designer-Inspired Duffel Everyone Is Talking About

Weekend trips deserve a stylish travel bag.

If you’ve admired the iconic patterned luxury duffels seen at airports and weekend getaways, you’ll love this affordable alternative.

The Amazon version features:

• Lightweight design
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Spacious interior
• Chic travel-ready look

At only $39, it’s an easy addition for anyone who wants their travel accessories to look polished without spending designer prices.

Perfect for:

• Weekend trips
• Gym sessions
• Carry-on travel
• Road trips

Luxury Inspiration: Goyard Travel Bag
Amazon Alternative: Around $39

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Duffel Here:
👉 AMAZON DUFFEL BAG

3. The Woven Shoulder Bag That Looks Surprisingly Luxe

One of the biggest handbag trends over the past few years has been the woven leather shoulder bag.

The designer version sells for around $3,000, but I found an Amazon option for approximately $35 that captures the same minimalist, modern aesthetic.

What makes this bag stand out?

• Soft woven finish
• Clean silhouette
• Gold zipper details
• Neutral enough to pair with almost everything

It’s the perfect everyday bag when you want something elevated yet practical.

Luxury Price: $3,000
Amazon Alternative: Around $35-$39

🛍️ Shop the Amazon Shoulder Bag Here:
👉 AMAZON SHOULDER BAG

Why I Love Finding “Look for Less” Pieces

While I appreciate beautiful designer craftsmanship, I also believe that personal style isn’t defined by a price tag. Thoughtfully chosen affordable pieces can create the same elevated, timeless look while leaving room in your budget for travel, family experiences, and everyday life.

These finds let you enjoy current trends without overspending, and that’s always a win in my book.

If you’ve been looking to refresh your wardrobe without investing thousands, these Amazon finds are definitely worth checking out.

Whether you’re shopping for:

✔️ A woven everyday tote
✔️ A stylish weekend duffel
✔️ A chic woven shoulder bag

…there’s a designer-inspired option that delivers the look for less.

Luxury style doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.

Happy shopping!

The post Luxury Designer Bag Alternatives: 3 Amazon Finds That Look Designer for Less (2026) appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

One of my favorite ways to shop is finding pieces that capture the same polished look as designer fashion, without spending thousands of dollars. This striped shirt dress is the perfect example.

When I saw this classic silhouette, it immediately reminded me of several high-end dresses from brands like Carolina Herrera, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Tuckernuck. While those dresses range anywhere from $250 to $2,500, I found an Amazon version that delivers the same effortless style for just $39.99.

My Amazon Pick

For only $39.99, this striped shirt dress is comfortable, flattering, and incredibly versatile.

Why I Love It

✔️ Lightweight and breathable fabric

✔️ Classic blue-and-white stripe pattern

✔️ Relaxed fit that’s easy to wear

✔️ Looks polished with almost no effort

✔️ Easy to dress up or down

Whether you’re heading to brunch, running errands, packing for vacation, or spending the weekend with family, this is one of those dresses you’ll reach for again and again.

The Designer Inspiration

I couldn’t help but notice how similar this Amazon find is to some beautiful designer pieces.

Carolina Herrera Striped Cotton-Blend Mini Shirt Dress

Price: $2,500

Known for its tailored silhouette and timeless striped design, this dress is elegant and sophisticated—but definitely an investment piece.

Polo Ralph Lauren Striped Ruffle Shirt Dress

Price: $375

A feminine take on the classic shirt dress with subtle details and everyday versatility.

Tuckernuck Blue Stripe Royal Shirt Dress

Price: $250

Relaxed, effortless, and perfect for casual chic dressing.

Each of these dresses has its own unique details, but they all share the same classic striped aesthetic that never goes out of style.

How I Styled Mine

One of the things I love most about this Amazon dress is how easy it is to style.

For this look, I paired it with:

• Oversized sunglasses
• Minimal jewelry
• Barefoot for a relaxed at-home moment (or pair it with white sneakers or sandals when heading out)
• A simple low bun for an effortless finish

It’s one of those outfits that feels put together without trying too hard.

Why I Love Finding “Look for Less” Pieces

Fashion should be fun and not stressful.

While designer pieces can be beautiful, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to create a polished wardrobe. Mixing affordable finds with timeless styling allows you to build a closet you’ll actually wear and enjoy.

Sometimes it’s not about the label, it’s about how you wear it.

Shop My Amazon Find

If you’re looking for a timeless striped shirt dress without the luxury price tag, this one is definitely worth checking out.

✨ Price: Only $39.99
GET THE LOOK HERE

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting LivingHolliStyle!

More Look for Less Finds Coming Soon

If you love discovering affordable pieces inspired by designer fashion, you’re in the right place! I’ll be sharing more Look for Less finds featuring timeless fashion, everyday wardrobe staples, and budget-friendly styles that look anything but inexpensive.

Stay tuned… you won’t want to miss the next one!

The post Look for Less: Amazon Striped Shirt Dress Under $40 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Whether you’re looking for naturally beautiful lashes, flawless makeup application, or targeted skincare support, these new arrivals have something special to offer.

OLIVE ROSE HT Volumizing Mascara in Brown

Natural beauty starts with the perfect finishing touch.

The new OLIVE ROSE HT Volumizing Mascara in Brown delivers beautifully defined lashes with a softer, more natural look than traditional black mascara. The rich brown shade enhances your eyes while creating a fresh, effortless appearance that’s perfect for everyday wear.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Soft brown pigment for a naturally defined look
• Adds volume without feeling heavy
• Separates and lifts lashes beautifully
• Perfect for daytime makeup or a “no-makeup” makeup look
• Complements every eye color and skin tone

If you’ve been looking for a mascara that enhances rather than overpowers your features, this is the one.

OLIVE ROSE Angel Face Brush

The right tools make all the difference.

Meet the OLIVE ROSE Angel Face Brush, a luxurious dual-ended complexion brush thoughtfully designed to help you achieve a smooth, seamless finish every time.

Its versatile design makes applying cream, liquid, or powder products easier than ever while blending effortlessly for an airbrushed appearance.

Features:

• Dual-ended design for multiple uses
• Perfect for foundation, blush, bronzer, and contour
• Ultra-soft bristles for comfortable application
• Creates a smooth, streak-free finish
• Designed for precision and effortless blending

Whether you’re getting ready for work or a special event, this brush helps make every application look professionally blended.

OLIVEDA I95 Hydroxytyrosol Burn Molecule

Beauty begins from within.

Introducing the OLIVEDA I95 Hydroxytyrosol Burn Molecule, a new wellness innovation featuring concentrated organic olive leaf extract rich in hydroxytyrosol and olive polyphenols.

Hydroxytyrosol is one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants and is known for helping protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress while supporting overall wellness.

Highlights:

• Concentrated organic olive leaf extract
• Rich in hydroxytyrosol and olive polyphenols
• Powerful antioxidant support
• Supports overall wellness from within
• Designed to complement a healthy lifestyle

As with all Oliveda products, this formula reflects the brand’s commitment to harnessing the remarkable benefits of the olive tree.

Why We Love These New Launches

These three products perfectly represent what makes Oliveda and OLIVE ROSE unique—combining innovative formulations with naturally inspired ingredients and thoughtfully designed beauty essentials.

Whether you’re:

• Looking for softer, naturally defined lashes,
• Upgrading your makeup tools,
• Or adding antioxidant support to your wellness routine,

there’s something new to love.

Ready to Try Them?

Click here to SHOP

Now is the perfect time to discover these exciting new additions and experience the Oliveda difference for yourself.

Shop the new arrivals today and elevate your beauty and wellness routine with the power of the olive tree.

The post Meet the Three Newest Additions to the OLIVE ROSE & OLIVEDA Collection appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

One of my favorite traditions is our annual family gathering, lovingly hosted by Nana and Grampy. Every year, they bring everyone together, and each family takes a turn hosting dinner for the group. With around 15 of us altogether, including Rob’s parents, Nana and Grampy, Rob’s sister Stephanie and her family, his brother Neil, his sister Susie and her family, and our own little family, it becomes a week filled with laughter, conversation, and incredible homemade food.

Every meal is prepared with love using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and each dinner reflects the personality of the family hosting. It isn’t about creating a perfect table or an elaborate menu. It’s about gathering together, sharing stories, enjoying delicious home cooked meals, and making memories that we all look forward to every single year.

From Beach Walks to the Dinner Table

One of my favorite parts of our time here has been collecting shells with my nieces. We gathered them along the beach and decided to turn our little seaside treasures into something special for dinner: handmade shell place holders.

We decorated the shells, personalized them with names, and used them to mark everyone’s place at the table. Each one was completely unique, and I loved that something we found together by the ocean became part of our family dinner.

It’s such a simple summer activity to do with kids, too. Collect your favorite shells, clean and dry them, then decorate them with paint, colorful patterns, or each guest’s name. Suddenly, you have a beautiful, personal table detail and a keepsake to remember the day.

A Surfboard for a Dinner Table? Absolutely.

For dinner, we took the coastal theme one step further and used a surfboard as our dining table. It was casual, unexpected, and absolutely perfect for a summer evening by the water.

I made a spread of fresh salads alongside pasta, vegetables, and other dishes for everyone to share. Nothing too formal, just colorful, fresh food served family style while everyone gathered around the table.

Looking down that long table and seeing everyone together was probably my favorite part of the evening. My husband was there with his parents, Nana and Grampy, along with the rest of the family. These are the moments I want to remember: plates full of homemade food, conversations overlapping, people laughing, and the ocean just steps away.

Nana (Right) and Grampy (Left), My husband (middle)

And Then Came the Cake-Off…

Of course, we couldn’t end the day without a little friendly competition!

My nieces, nephew, and I had our own family cake-off, and things got wonderfully creative—and a little messy. We baked and decorated cakes with berries, colorful sprinkles, frosting, and plenty of personality.

Were they bakery-perfect? Definitely not. But that was exactly the point.

There was frosting everywhere, decorations piled high, and so much laughter along the way. By the time we started cutting into the cakes, the table looked like a delicious disaster. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

The Kind of Summer I Want to Remember

This trip has reminded me that some of the best memories come from making something out of what’s already around us.

Shells collected during a walk became personalized place holders. A surfboard became our dinner table. Fresh ingredients became a beautiful family feast. A simple baking activity became a hilarious cake competition with my nieces and nephew.

It wasn’t about creating a picture-perfect dinner. It was about creating something together.

And somewhere between collecting shells, tossing salads, decorating cakes, and sitting around the table with Nana, Grampy, my husband, and our family, we created the kind of summer evening I know I’ll look back on and smile.

Because sometimes, the most beautiful tables aren’t the fanciest ones. They’re the ones where everyone you love has a place.

The post A Summer Evening in Parksville: Shell Place Cards, Fresh Salads & a Family Cake-Off appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Tucked into a peaceful corner of the event, Jenna, a licensed acupuncturist from Peace of Nature Acupuncture, welcomed guests for ear acupuncture sessions. As people stepped away from the excitement of the event, they found a quiet space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.

Meeting Jenna

Before the treatments began, Jenna explained the fascinating concept behind auricular (ear) acupuncture.

Holding an ear acupuncture model covered with tiny pressure points, she shared how different areas of the ear correspond to different systems throughout the body. It’s remarkable to see how one small part of the body can represent the whole person.

Her calm presence immediately put people at ease, making even first-time visitors feel comfortable asking questions and trying something new.

What Is Ear Acupuncture?

Ear acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture based on the idea that the ear contains mapped points connected to various organs and body systems.

Using tiny, sterile needles placed at carefully selected points, practitioners like Jenna aim to support the body’s natural balance and encourage relaxation. Many people include auricular acupuncture as part of their overall wellness routine for stress management, mindfulness, and general well-being.

While everyone’s experience is different, many people describe the treatment as deeply relaxing.

A Quiet Moment in a Busy Event

Watching Jenna work was almost meditative.

Each treatment was performed with precision and care, creating a peaceful atmosphere that stood out from the busy energy of the DRIFT event. Guests settled into comfortable chairs while Jenna gently placed the tiny needles, taking time to explain the process and answer questions.

Some visitors admitted they were nervous beforehand, but after just a few minutes, many commented on how surprisingly calming the experience felt.

It became one of those moments that reminded everyone that wellness isn’t always about doing more—sometimes it’s about slowing down.

More Than Just a Treatment

What made Jenna’s booth special wasn’t just the acupuncture itself.

It was the conversations.

People gathered to learn about holistic wellness, ask questions about stress relief, and discover how traditional practices like acupuncture can complement a healthy lifestyle. Even those who didn’t receive a treatment walked away with a greater appreciation for the body’s incredible ability to restore balance.

Final Thoughts

The DRIFT event celebrated wellness in many forms, but Jenna’s ear acupuncture sessions offered something truly unique—a chance to pause.

In a world that constantly asks us to move faster, taking a few quiet moments to care for ourselves can be one of the most valuable experiences of all.

Whether you’re curious about acupuncture or already enjoy holistic wellness practices, Jenna’s thoughtful approach showed that sometimes the smallest treatments can create the biggest sense of calm.

The post Meet Jenna: Ear Acupuncture at the DRIFT Event | Peace of Nature Acupuncture appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

The post The Perfect Summer Lake Day Feast appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

Held every Canada Day at Winter Cove in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, this beloved community fundraiser is much more than a barbecue. It’s a celebration of history, community, and the slower pace of island life that makes Saturna Island such a special place.

A Tradition That Brings Everyone Together

As we arrived, we immediately understood why this event has become a Canada Day tradition for nearly eight decades.

Families spread out picnic blankets, neighbors greeted one another like old friends, volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and visitors from across British Columbia gathered to celebrate Canada’s birthday in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

There was a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that reminded us how meaningful small-town traditions can be.

Instead of large crowds and busy city celebrations, Canada Day here felt intimate, authentic, and deeply rooted in community.

Watching Lamb Roast Over Open Coals

The first thing that caught our attention was the incredible sight of whole lambs roasting over open alder wood coals.

Lined up over large fire pits, each lamb was slowly cooked using a traditional roasting method that has been passed down through generations. Smoke drifted through the air while volunteers carefully tended the fires, making sure every lamb cooked low and slow.

It wasn’t just fascinating to watch—it was like stepping back in time.

Seeing an entire meal prepared this way is something you don’t experience every day, and it quickly became one of the highlights of our trip.

Worth the Wait

As the smoky aroma filled Winter Cove, anticipation grew throughout the crowd.

When lunch was finally served, we understood why people return year after year.

The lamb was wonderfully tender, juicy, and infused with the rich smoky flavor from hours of slow roasting over alder wood. Every bite reflected the time, care, and tradition that goes into preparing this iconic Canada Day meal.

Simple ingredients, traditional techniques, and passionate volunteers created one of the most memorable meals we’ve enjoyed while traveling.

More Than a Meal

While the barbecue is certainly the star of the event, what truly stayed with us was the sense of community.

People of all ages gathered together, sharing stories, laughter, and meals under the summer sun. Children ran through the open fields while families enjoyed picnics, and visitors were welcomed with genuine island hospitality.

There’s something incredibly refreshing about celebrating a national holiday in a place where the focus isn’t on extravagance but on togetherness.

It reminded us that the best travel experiences are often the simplest ones.

A Beautiful Setting at Winter Cove

The location couldn’t have been more perfect.

Surrounded by lush forests, coastal landscapes, and the peaceful beauty of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Winter Cove provided the ideal backdrop for this cherished tradition.

Whether you were enjoying lunch, watching the lamb roast over the fire, or simply soaking in the scenery, every moment felt uniquely West Coast.

Why We’ll Be Back

Travel is about collecting experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

For us, attending the 77th Annual Saturna Island Canada Day Lamb Barbecue wasn’t simply about trying delicious food—it was about experiencing a tradition that has connected generations for over 77 years.

It’s easy to see why locals cherish this event and why visitors make the journey back every Canada Day.

Authentic traditions like these remind us that the heart of every destination is its people.

If you’re planning to visit the Gulf Islands around Canada Day, we highly recommend adding the Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue to your itinerary.

From watching whole lambs roast over open fires to sharing a meal with locals in the beautiful surroundings of Winter Cove, it’s an experience that perfectly captures the warmth, hospitality, and traditions of island life.

Sometimes, the most unforgettable travel memories aren’t found in famous landmarks—they’re found around a community table, sharing a meal that has brought people together for generations.

And this is one Canada Day tradition we’ll never forget.

The post A Canada Day Tradition We’ll Never Forget: The 77th Annual Saturna Island Lamb Barbecue 🇨🇦 appeared first on Living Hollis Style.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt welcoming and uplifting. We checked in, rolled out our mats on the beach, and prepared for an energizing workout as the sun began its slow descent over the water. The fresh sea air and stunning coastal views made every movement feel even more refreshing.

Fitness That Feels Like Fun

The beach workout reminded us that fitness doesn’t have to happen inside a gym. Exercising outdoors, surrounded by nature and supportive women, creates an entirely different experience. Every squat, stretch, and strength exercise was accompanied by laughter, encouragement, and breathtaking views of the ocean.

Sweat & Social Victoria has created more than just a workout—it’s a space where women can prioritize their health while building genuine friendships and celebrating movement together.

The Perfect Post-Workout Social

After class, everyone gathered for a beautiful beach social featuring refreshing mocktails, healthy bites, and time to simply connect.

One of the evening’s highlights was the incredible catering by Crumbs Coastal Kitchen, who prepared a fresh, colorful spread that was as nourishing as it was beautiful. From crisp vegetables and creamy dips to handmade pasta salad and wholesome snacks, every bite complemented the wellness-focused evening perfectly.

Meet Crumbs Coastal Kitchen

Behind Crumbs Coastal Kitchen are Chef Darryl Crumb and his wife Julia Hunter, a registered nurse and wellness advocate who share a passion for helping people thrive through nourishing food and meaningful connection.

As parents of two young daughters, they’ve built a family-owned business centered on one simple belief: great food brings people together.

Their approach combines Chef Darryl’s culinary expertise with Julia’s background in preventative health and wellness, creating meals that celebrate fresh, locally inspired ingredients while fostering community around the table.

Whether they’re catering beachfront wellness events, boutique weddings, intimate gatherings, private celebrations, or serving from their food truck, Crumbs Coastal Kitchen focuses on thoughtful hospitality, fresh seasonal flavors, and creating memorable experiences through food.

Their beautiful grazing tables and wholesome dishes were the perfect addition to an evening centered around wellness and connection.

More Than Just Exercise

One of the most beautiful parts of the evening wasn’t the workout itself—it was the friendships.

Between the laughs, group photos, healthy snacks, and conversations overlooking the ocean, we were reminded that wellness is about so much more than exercise. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, encourage you, and make healthy living feel joyful.

These are the moments that fill your cup long after the workout is over.

Looking Forward to the Next One

As the sun began to set and everyone headed home with smiles (and a fun swag bag!), it was clear this was more than just a fitness event—it was a celebration of movement, community, and supporting local businesses that share the same passion for wellness.

We’re already looking forward to the next beach social.

Because the best workouts don’t just make you stronger—they introduce you to incredible people, unforgettable experiences, and communities that feel like home. 💕🌊💪

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