Sointula, Malcolm Island, BC, Canada: a wonderful, secluded island - deep in Finnish history - located off the northern coastlines of Vancouver Island. Malcolm Island, along with Cormorant Island, are the two main inhabited islands of the Northern Gulf Islands region. The island is a popular destination, as a retreat hide-away, for many people seeking island serenity, peacefulness, plenty of marine scenery, some time away from civilization and, to possibly, partake in a wilderness eco-activity like kayaking, wildlife watching, beachcombing or scuba diving.

A visit to Sointula is an opportunity to walk pebbled beaches, watch Bald Eagles and sea birds explore the skies high above the comings and goings of yachts, fishing vessels and recreational boats. The island is best accessed from a ferry terminal in Port McNeill, BC. on Vancouver Island. The short cruise connects Vancouver Island to the main village, Sointula, on Malcolm Island.

Sointula, BC ( a Finnish word meaning harmony ) is the only village on Malcolm Island. It is a quaint, very small village with a general store, gas station, pub, local museum and art gallery. Proud of its deep Finnish heritage, this (non-ATM machine) island is void of big city amenities and is ideal for photographers, artists and couples looking for a romantic getaway.

Sointula is a destination for those individuals seeking self fulfillment and self discovery, not hustle and bustle. Time here is spent enjoying tranquil moments exploring parks, trails and beaches. Bere Point has camping, beaches and picnic sites. Beautiful Bay Trail is a popular hikers retreat walking forested trails leading up to pebbled beaches. A short beach access walk leads all explorers to the Pultenay Point Lighthouse on the tip of Malcolm Island.

Sointula's settlement is based on the utopian values of the early Finnish settlers who believed in developing a haven of relaxation for the people of a Finnish Descent. Sointula is located on the outskirts of the Broughton Archipelago . Also, the immediate area of Malcolm Island and the Village of Sointula is recognized as a popular scuba diving and kayak destination.

How to Get to Sointula: Sointula on Malcolm Island is located off the shores of Port McNeill, 463 km (287 mi) north of Victoria. Again... we must suggest the Hwy 19A (Oceanside Route) whenever possible traveling north by car. The Oceanside Route ends in Campbell River and continues on as Hwy 19 ( North Island Hwy). A scenic tour of the absolute most rugged West Coast wilderness on Vancouver Island. An enjoyable trip, worth every extra mile. Sit back and cruise for a 200 km (124 mi) adventure through vast rainforests with thick lush undergrowth, rumbling over bridges protecting rushing rivers, cutting through valleys and along mountain ridges weaving in and around the cavernous mountain ranges until you arrive to the ocean front community of Port McNeill located just off Highway 19. Located only 50 km (31 mi) south of Port Hardy in Port McNeill is the Ferry Terminal that takes you to Sointula, on Malcolm Island and Alert Bay on Cormorant Island.