Officially laid-out in 1882, Beacon Hill Park occupies a coveted stretch of 75 hectares (200 acres) along Victoria's waterfront. The park derives its name from the two masts placed on Beacon Hill that help mariners safely navigate into Victoria's inner bay. Manicured lawns, landscaped gardens and dense groves of trees seamlessly blend into one another at Beacon Hill Park, Victoria's treasured green space. Peacocks roam freely, while Blue Herons flit between trees and waterfowl congregate by the lake. Complete with a petting zoo, putting greens, sports fields and a bandshell, Beacon Hill Park is a serene respite from the urban landscape with ample opportunity for recreation. There's even a totem pole, meandering trails and exotic flora at Victoria's scenic Beacon Hill Park.
One of the cornerstones of the provincial capital's political journey, the British Columbia Parliament Buildings occupy an iconic presence on Government Street. Framed by an exquisitely manicured rose garden, this architectural masterpiece was designed by English-based architect Francis Rattenbury in layered styles that range from Neo-baroque to Romanesque Revival. Perched atop the most central of the 33 domes that feature along its facade is a life-sized statue of Captain George Vancouver, while another part of the edifice holds the statue of Chief Maquinna of the indigenous Nuu-chah-nulth tribe. The doors of the building lead to a grand rotunda that features striking depictions and murals of British Columbia's eventful past, as well as delicate, etched windows that celebrate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee. The grounds of the Parliament Buildings embrace Victoria's resplendent Inner Harbour and offer sweeping vistas of its waterfront.
Inner Harbour is one of the most scenic spots in the city and is a favorite landmark for both tourists as well as the locals. Restaurants and accommodations abound around this harbor including the renowned Empress Hotel. Sign up for a marine excursion or a whale watching tour or just rent a boat and sail out into the sea and enjoy the views. The causeway along the harbor is perfect for strolls especially at night when the water reflects the lights of the surrounding government buildings making for a very special sight.
Overlooking Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour, this historic hotel features extensive spa treatments and a selection of on-site restaurants. The Royal British Columbia Museum is 5 minutes' walk away. The Fairmont Empress Hotel’s elegantly decorated rooms offer a plush seating area and windows that open out. Each is equipped with cable TV and an in-room coffee maker. The Empress holds a traditional afternoon tea in a special lobby with views of the harbour. Guests can admire the Victorian architecture and stained glass ceiling of the lobby or swim in the indoor pool. Willow Stream Spa includes a sauna, hot tub and fitness center. The Empress Fairmont Hotel is situated at a short distance from the Royal London Wax Museum and The Maritime Museum of BC. This extravagant hotel is also home to Miniature World, a popular tourist attraction and a museum visited by tourists in large numbers.
Visit the Royal BC Museum to be enlightened about local culture and long-gone history. If the past is a prologue to the present, you'll be able to see and explore countless exhibits and artifacts of lost worlds that cast a light on how we live today. Stroll through the Modern History Gallery to experience an authentic Herbalist Shop in old time Chinatown. The entire family, especially the young ones, will be impressed with the exciting exhibit of a life-sized replica of the dinosaur-era Fossilized Woolly Mammoth complete with massive tusks and teeth in the Natural History Gallery. When planning your visit, consider a trip to the National Geographic IMAX Theatre, located within the building. Royal BC Museum is a world-class institution that is as entertaining as it is educational.
Steeped in history, Victoria is rich in the remnants of its past. One such National Historic Site is the magnificent Craigdarroch Castle, a Scottish-Baronial mansion that is sure to enthrall history lovers and tourists alike. The castle, which features over 39 rooms, was built by the wealthy Robert Dunsmuir in the late 1800s. This structure is made of granite and houses oak staircases, tiles imported from San Francisco, and exquisite furnishings. The castle has been featured in many films and also plays hosts to theater events each year. Thanks to renovations and upkeep, the castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Victoria. Tour the beautiful mansion and explore this incredible Victorian marvel.
What better way to see the harbor city of Victoria than from a kayak. Kelp Reef Adventures will help you here. Meander along the coast and through the harbor. You may see harbor seals, blue herons and other local wildlife. For a more protected trip, go up the Selkirk waterway.
Amateur artists though talented cannot display their collection, owing to economical constraints. The Fifty Fifty is a voluntary arts society that provides exhibition space to artists at reasonable cost, at times sans any charges too. This group of volunteers ensure that there is no restriction on the art genre or media and the artist is able to express his creativity without any pre-decided rules or boundaries. Throughout the season, Fifty Fifty hosts exhibitions, and artists from all over showcase their works here. For more details and schedule.
The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business is school that offers various programs in the field of business. Located at the University of Victoria, the school provides bachelor, masters, MBA, Ph.D. Courses. Some of the programs that the school offers are: Bachelor of Commerce (Bcom), PhD in International Management & Organization, Master of Global Business (MGB) and Master of Business Administration (MBA). For details regarding admissions and fees please log on to the school's website.
Este parque abarca montañas y mar, con bosques lluviosos templados y ecosistemas casi inalterados. El parque es un 95 por ciento de tierra salvaje, con bosques muy antiguos y tierras vírgenes. Hay pocas carreteras y servicios, y el alojamiento son principalmente campings con chimenea y baño, pero caminar por los senderos vale la pena el esfuerzo. Hay muchos senderos para el mochilero experimentado. Pueden aplicarse otros cargos por estacionar e ingresar a las zonas salvajes.
Eagle Wing Tours, a local marine adventure eco-tourism company, offers some of the most popular whale watching tours in Victoria. There are several pods of whales who call the coastline of Vancouver Island home during the year, and many transient pods and individuals often pass through the area as well. The sea life around the island is diverse and lively, so you are always going to see something exciting.