Victoria BC attractions and activities highlights
Victoria's most popular attractions and activities become very clear to us each summer as our guests recount their adventures at the B&B breakfast table each morning. After 13 years of running our Victoria bed and breakfast we feel fairly confident that the following list summaries the highlights fairly accurately. There is so much to do in the Victoria BC area that just about everyone's tastes will be catered for on southern Vancouver Island.
An important part of our work is to help our guests make the most of their visit to Victoria. When you are here you can browse through binders of information and we can give insights and help with reservations.
Victoria attractions - the list
These are in approximate order of popularity of Victoria BC attractions.
The Butchart Gardens. A magnificent spectacle throughout the year. Your visit may coincide with their evening illuminations, concerts and summer Saturday fireworks.
The Inner Harbour. Wander around the harbour. Downtown shopping.
Royal BC Museum. You will be impressed by the displays: the history of the area from the Ice Age to today, and the large native exhibit. Look for their temporary exhibits.
Whale watching. A memorable experience around southern Vancouver Island best arranged when you are here because of sea and weather conditions.
Scenic drive to downtown Victoria. Take the slow route downtown and be sure to drive to the top (well almost) of Mount Douglas - its 360 degree view is a great introduction to get your bearings.
Butterfly Gardens. It is en route to Butchart Gardens so stop for an hour to see over 3,000 butterflies and moths in a tropical garden.
West coast drive. You will want to see the rugged West coast so drive past Sooke, first stopping at Fort Rodd Hill and the picturesque Fisgard Lighthouse. Both are near the gardens of Hatley Castle.
Enjoy afternoon high tea. The best venues are the Butchart Gardens and the White Heather tea room (NOT the grossly overpriced Empress Hotel).
Craigdarroch Castle. The interior of this Victorian baronial mansion is superbly restored.
East coast drive. Stroll in the old growth forest at Goldstream Park then drive to Chemainus for the famous murals. Visit wineries on the way.
Wineries. They are here on the Saanich Peninsula too, even a cidery. One winery is within walking distance of us. Weekends are best.
Hiking. Everything from a beach stroll to a serious hike. A popular easy walk good to combine with a visit to the Butchart Gardens is part of the Gowlland Tod park through forest down to Tod Inlet.
Kayaking. Sheltered Saanich Inlet and Tod Inlet are ideal for novices or experienced kayakers for a guided tour or rentals.
Glendale Gardens. Very near our Victoria bed and breakfast - a "gardener's garden", low key but fascinating. Has one of the three Victoria Japanese gardens.
Sailing. For total relaxation go on board a three hour sailing excursion.
Have a massage. Yet more relaxation: ah bliss! We will arrange this in your bed and breakfast room or cottage.
Ziplining. OK not relaxing but certainly exhilarating.
These are highlights we've noted from our guests. We have produced a sample Victoria itinerary and have a page of Victoria videos to help you plan your trip. Let us know if you need any help arranging your own favourite Victoria BC attractions.
