Victoria, Vancouver Island, BC

The magnificent galleries of the Royal British Columbia Museum house exhibitions on dinosaurs, ancient map collections and the wonders of Antarctica. Beside the boldly coloured totem poles of the Museum’s Thunderbird Park, First Nations carvers are busy at work. The Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre offers a taste of Native American art and culture, with demonstrations of totems being carved inside the world’s largest carving house. A stroll on the grounds or a visit to the Café to sample traditional Native American foods is the perfect way to pass the hours during a holiday in Victoria. The fabulously warm and beautiful wool sweaters made by the Quw'utsun' people make for lovely souvenir items. Fort Rodd Hill and its Fisgard Lighthouse are great spots for hiking, bird watching or having a picnic. The restored fortress offers the opportunity to explore and photograph visiting marine and land mammals, along with vessels sailing the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Victoria’s Butchart Gardens are a natural wonderland of themed gardens, exotic plants, ponds and streams. In spring, thousands of bulbs create a spectacular show of colour, and at night, dazzling fireworks shows and illuminations cast a magical glow over the gardens’ splendid floral displays. The Abkhazi Gardens are an ever-evolving landscape masterpiece, a series of rooms, each with its own distinct personality. The historic buildings that dot the property are great for exploration before stepping inside the mansion for some afternoon tea as you listen to the fascinating history of the garden and its original owners. Hundreds of colourful butterflies and moths freely flutter through the tropical greenhouse of the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Self-guided tours are available using the Garden’s identification chart or visitors can opt to listen to naturalists explain butterfly biology. The butterflies emerging from their chrysalises are certain to amaze, as does the world’s largest moth which calls the Butterfly Gardens home.

Located on the ocean and near the castle, the Hatley Park National Historic Site is a diverse and beautiful property in Victoria. Nature lovers will enjoy more than fifteen kilometres of walking trails through a rare ecosystem that includes old growth forest, Gary Oak meadows and a wildlife sanctuary. The 4-story Craigdarroch Castle is an opulent stone palace perched on a hill overlooking the city. This restored home boasts magnificent architecture and beautiful formal gardens that surround the building. The immense wealth of the family that owned the castle is evident in the intricate woodwork, exquisite stained glass windows and fantastic Victorian era furnishings. A guided tour of the British Columbia Legislature Buildings highlights the province’s history and the beautiful interiors of Victoria’s parliament. The gardens at the front and behind the parliament buildings can be explored at your own leisure, while views of the buildings at night when outlined by thousands of tiny lights are priceless.

Old Town Victoria takes visitors on a stroll down memory lane with its many remnants of the past. Vintage buildings house cafes, restaurants, nightclubs and shops that offer an abundance of entertainment options. Beautiful handmade gifts and local delicacies can be found at the Bastion Square Public Market. A quick pint at Garrick’s Head Pub, which has been serving food and drinks since 1867, will immerse you fully into the history of Victoria. Fisherman’s Wharf is another hidden treasure awaiting discovery. This unique marine destination is just the place to visit for its food kiosks, unique shops and eco-tourism adventures, all within the heart of a working harbour. A stroll down the docks to purchase some seafood fresh off the boat whilst gazing at moored pleasure vessels, floating homes and fishing boats unload their catch of the day is a great way to pass an afternoon during a holiday in Victoria.

The ideal time for a holiday in Victoria, Vancouver Island is between March and May, and September to November. Because the region experiences some of the mildest weather in Canada, you can expect a light drizzle here and there during your Victoria holiday.

Either way, do plan for comfortable temperatures during spring and autumn during your Canada tour. Naturally, summer is by far the best time for a holiday to Canada, thanks to the many fun festivals held in Victoria. The area also welcomes a large number of winter travellers thanks to its close proximity to Whistler, the prominent ski destination of Canada.

Spring Blossoms

Spring is a wonderful time of the year for taking a holiday in Victoria. Winter frosts will have given way to azaleas and cherry blossoms, while the chilly cloud cover retreats to reveal sunnier skies. Spring in Victoria is lovely as it ushers in celebrations of all sorts, from theatre to boating. Storytelling comes to life at the Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival and attending the Uno Fest will place you at the forefront of independent theatre.

Summer Festivities

Summertime marks the peak Canada holiday tourism season. Little rainfall and higher temperatures offer an ideal climate for outdoor excursions like cycling, whale watching and touring vineyards. The warmer months also usher in festivals such as the International JazzFest; the International Buskers Festival; the Free-B Film Festival; the Symphony Splash; and the Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival. Hit the streets and immerse yourself in some culture at the many different festivals held in Victoria.

Autumn Evenings

While the days may be shorter, you will not lack something to do on a crisp autumn evening in Victoria. Autumn can be chilly with its increase in rainfall, but packing a couple of cosy sweaters and an umbrella for a tour in Canada will ensure that the weather doesn’t get in the way of your festival agenda. Warmth and fun are guaranteed at the Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival; the Victoria Classic Boat Festival; or the Peninsula ArtSea Festival.

Winter Magic

There’s no better place to be in winter than Victoria with its lights, parades and events. While the thought of spending your winter in Canada may send a shiver down your spine, don’t rule out off-season holidays to Victoria. The region experiences some of the mildest winters in the country thereby offering a truly magical winter atmosphere. This allows for holding various festivals such as the Victoria Whisky Festival; the Victoria Film Festival; and the Victoria Tea Festival.