Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia and offers visitors and locals an endless array of fun activities both indoor and outdoor. Victoria is also the Canadian city which has the mildest winters, often with no snow to speak of, which entices Canadians and people from other nationalities to visit the city even during the winter months.

The city of Victoria is a beautiful city surrounded by ocean waters and mountainous wilderness. There are countless restaurants which offer a variety of international dishes, to shops and world-class golf courses and ski-hills.

For nature lovers, Victoria also offers a variety of hiking trails and fishing expeditions. Make sure to head down to the oceanfront, where you have the chance to ride on the “Ocean Magic”, a boat which gives you the chance to whale watch all year round. You also have the chance to see sea lions, elephant seals, gray, humpback whales and orcas. The ticket office is conveniently located at the “Tourism Victoria Visitor Centre” in James Bay. This is a tour which is not to be missed!

During the Christmas season, experience the magic of Craigdarroch Castle, which is a historical landmark of Victoria’s landscape. This castle is decorated for the season in grand Victorian style. The castle offers tours as well as performances of seasonal music and entertainment for families.  Don’t forget to visit the Museum shop for all your gift ideas.

A visit to Victoria would not be complete without the not-to-be-missed Butchart Gardens, which is a National Historic Site. These Gardens offer an outdoor skating rink in the winter months, as well as live entertainment and gorgeous scenery.

One of the best ways to enjoy Victoria is to take a Walking Tour with John Adams, who is a very well-known local historian who offers fascinating tours of the city, which cover every aspect of Victoria’s colourful past. Try the Ghostly Walks for a fun-filled Saturday night activity or the Neighbourhood Discovery Walks which are a great way to see all the city has to offer.

Discover the Inner Harbour/downtown area of Victoria, which is home to several renowned landmarks, such as the Fairmount Empress Hotel which offers its visitors a chance to indulge in High Tea, and the Legislative Buildings which are impressively lit up at night for all to enjoy.

The city of Victoria is both a fun, lively city as well as a great place to relax and enjoy the splendors of nature. You will find that Victoria is filled with endless possibilities, and is an enjoyable vacation spot all year round!