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.
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.
One of the most vibrant national historic sites in Canada is predominantly the Hatley Park National Historic Site. The park is a premier destination that houses a magnificent castle, a college and the huge and sprawling heritage gardens. The historic site is a part of the Royal Roads college campus. Visitors can take guided tours and explore the castle's interiors. All in all, the site is a beautifully preserved attraction that will appeal to every tourists alike.
This attraction is home to bugs, like hairy tarantulas, Peruvian blue centipedes, Malaysian jungle nymphs, walking sticks, millipedes, white-eyed assassin bugs and mantis among others. Join a tour and let the knowledgeable staff introduce you to the world of arachnids and bugs surviving across different ecosystems in the world. After the tour, buzz around the gift shop for bottled honey, toys, models and books.
The New Dungeness Lighthouse in Sequim has been aiding ships since 1857 when it was constructed. The current structure is a shorter version of its original self, standing at a height of 26 feet (7.9 meters). The lighthouse is still functional, which is why people from near and far visit it to witness something that has stood the test of time. Located on the famous Dungeness Spit in the Dungeness Wildlife Refuge, the imposing lighthouse is a splendid sight to behold. The journey to the site is adventurous as the lighthouse is encircled by a network of uneven rocks, so wear your hiking boots while visiting.
When in Sequim, the Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm is a breathtaking destination that simply cannot be missed. This beautiful organic farm is home to blooming lavenders that will mesmerize you with their sweet scent as you walk in. Here, you can walk through vibrant lavender fields, pick fresh blossoms and make your own cute bundles, meet adorable farm animals, and shop for authentic lavender products. The well-maintained farm is usually in full bloom in July. The beautiful farm shop offers a variety of products like essential oils, lavender honey, bath salts, soaps, tea blends, and gift items.
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.
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.
Experience a wonderful three-hour tour on the tall ship, Thane. Be sure to bring along a picnic, a bottle of wine and of course a sweater for that ever-changing West Coast weather. This is an amazing way to explore the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The New Dungeness Lighthouse in Sequim has been aiding ships since 1857 when it was constructed. The current structure is a shorter version of its original self, standing at a height of 26 feet (7.9 meters). The lighthouse is still functional, which is why people from near and far visit it to witness something that has stood the test of time. Located on the famous Dungeness Spit in the Dungeness Wildlife Refuge, the imposing lighthouse is a splendid sight to behold. The journey to the site is adventurous as the lighthouse is encircled by a network of uneven rocks, so wear your hiking boots while visiting.
Located on a 8.9 hectare (22 acre) estate, the Estate of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, as the name suggests, is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. In addition to that, it is also Victoria residence of the Canadian monarch. This stately mansion was built in 1957 in Modern Tudor Revival style of architecture. The gardens around the mansion are beautifully landscaped too, with several benches and picnic tables at some spots.