Traveling to Victoria British Columbia

Michelle Lang
5 min readNov 15, 2017

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Victoria British Columbia is truly a mystical place. It reminds me of many different aspects of Game of Thrones. From the incredible historic castles to the stunning beach line cliffs. Plus there is so much to discover, and so much to do that it leaves you overwhelmed. A few days of vacation in Victoria may not be enough to explore wildlife, historical monuments, national parks and museums… and did I mention castles? There are also quite a few recreational facilities that offer many different water activities. Fun activities like boat rentals, Jet-skis, and there is also a place for parasailing. Whether you come here with friends or family, the place has all kinds of things to do for all ages.

Visit the Burtchart Gardens of Victoria British Columbia

The Burtchart Gardens were built by a woman named Jennie Butchart in 1906. This is one of the most stunning garden that you could ever visit. The Garden park is comprised of different varieties of beautifully decorated flower beds. Jennie dedicated years to beautifying these gardens ensuring each one offered a unique unforgettable beauty. The flower beds consist of a collection of Japanese, English, Italian flowers and roses. There are also beautiful fountains throughout the gardens intertwined with the dozens and dozens of flower beds. There are many different cultural and musical events held throughout the year. These events offer excellent opportunities to enjoy the gardens both during the day or during the night. With such incredible lighting effects the night events tend to be very popular. Check out some of these upcoming events www.tourismvictoria.com.

Victoria British Columbia garden

Watch whales in Victoria British Columbia

Victoria offers a fantastic opportunity to watch whales in their natural habitat. The Eagle Wing Company allows you to choose from open or closed boats to watch whales; whatever you prefer. Some people prefer the closed boats for a safer feeling experience, in addition to keeping drier. Either option allows you ample time to watch and enjoy the whales. This may be a hit or miss experience. Sometimes it may require a trip or two out on the boat to get to see the whales. However the guides are especially good at locating the whale activity. Whale watching is an educational experience, especially if you want to learn about different marine species that are found in Victoria.

Whale Watching

Check out the Royal BC Museum in Victoria British Columbia

History buffs really love visiting Victoria. There are over a million historical relics, documents and especially artifacts in the Royal British Columbia Museum in in Victoria. There are three areas the museum has been divided into. The first one is the First Nation’s history gallery. The second is the natural history gallery. The third is the modern history gallery. The museum also has many activities to take part in. You can participate in hosted tours of the exhibits, educational trips. In addition you can catch short movies covering various topics. There is an IMAX theatre which is perfect for viewing the many documentaries about the history of British Columbia. Most of all the Royal British Columbia Museum is one of the best museums in Canada.

Parliament Buildings of Victoria British Columbia

The Parliament Buildings are something to see. These historical monuments are an embodiment of magnificent architecture and sculptures. They line the front of the buildings and are truly fascinating to see. The gardens all the way around the buildings have been well manicured. Each one of the statues have a story of their own. Especially honoring Queen Victoria and also the many soldiers who perished during the World Wars. While visiting the Parliament you also have the opportunity to watch some parliamentary debates and proceedings. This alone will give you a new respect for the professionalism and long reign of the British rule. Visiting the Parliament Buildings are very stimulating both during the day or the night. In addition to the amazing architecture there is also well designed lighting which gives off a stunning view after dark.

Victoria British Columbia Parliment

Wineries in Victoria British Columbia

There are some wonderful wineries in Victoria British Columbia. The wines made here are truly amazing. Plus there are several micro brews that hand craft beer right in Victoria. Bar hoping in this quaint royal city is especially unforgettable. The DeVine Vineyards is an incredible must see establishment! DeVine Vineyards is Victoria’s iconic family Winery and Distillery. DeVine Vineyards produces award-winning wines and spirits from local grapes, grain, as well as fruit and honey. They have a beautiful tasting room that provides a stunning views of the Gulf Islands and Mt. Baker. They offer a wide range of red, white and rosés. In addition they offering gins, fruit brandy and honey rum and bittersweet Vermouth. DeVine welcomes special-events and private tastings year round. Read more about Devine Vineyards and plan your future trip.

Devine Vineyards Victoria BC

Breweries in Victoria British Columbia

There are also so great breweries in Victoria British Columbia. The Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub is one stop you must make. They brew a wide range of traditional ales, wild and out there barrel aged sours, especially ciders and blends. They also have a most noteworthy top of the line menu covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It feature some very unique dishes like House Smoked Wild Pacific Salmon Hash Benny or Red Wine Braised Rabbit, or even a most noteworthy Brew Pub Tasting Plate. Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub has partnered with over 35 local farmers and producers who supply them with fresh, local foods all year long. This also supports the local farm economy. You will love it! Read more about the Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub.

Spinnakers Brewpub Victoria BC

This list is not exhaustive as there are several other places in Victoria British Columbia that are especially worth checking out. Victoria is a blend of natural beauty in addition to a flourishing cosmopolitan life. One needs to see it to believe it.

If you enjoyed this post then be sure to check out our other “Must See Destinations“!

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Originally published at social-travel-experience.com on November 15, 2017.

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Michelle Lang

A candid journey of a wild and fun travel couple (with a shopping addiction).