Royston, Union Bay, & Fanny Bay (The Marine Highway)The Vibe: Stunning historical waterfront walkways along the old rail beds, famous for the Fanny Bay oyster industry and uninterrupted views across the Strait of Georgia.
The History (The Union Bay Bandit): In the early 1900s, Union Bay served as the bustling, deep-water shipping port for Cumberland's coal. On March 4, 1913, Henry Wagner, famously known as the "Flying Dutchman", docked in the harbor. Before escaping to Canada, Wagner was a ruthless American outlaw who rode with the notorious Wild West Cassidy Gang. Wagner snuck into the Union Bay General Store for a safe-cracking robbery, resulting in a chaotic gunfight and the capture of the Dutchman, who was ultimately the last man executed by hanging in Nanaimo.
Royston Destination Spotlight: For the ultimate luxury escape, the beachfront community of Royston is home to the world-renowned Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa. This high-end wellness destination features the iconic Pacific Mist Hydrotherapy Path (carved entirely into a simulated sea cave environment) alongside the upscale, oceanfront Ocean7 Restaurant & AQUA Bistro & Wine Bar, where you can indulge in artisan farm-to-table cuisine and premium West Coast pours right beside outdoor fire pits.
Fanny Bay Dining Spotlight: Taste the finest local harvest directly at the world-famous Fanny Bay Oysters Seafood Shop. For a fast, flavorful, and incredibly elegant coastal comfort meal designed to impress your dinner party guests, copy our step-by-step master recipe text via Heather's Saratoga Table: Oysters Fresh and Simple Link.