Summer is the ideal time to reconnect with not only our family and friends, but with ourselves too.
If you’re looking for a vacation in its truest sense — one that’s all about resetting, relaxing, and rejuvenating — look no further than Victoria!
The vibrant city vibes of downtown, multitude of incredible dining and accommodations, and unforgettable forests and waterways are just begging to be explored. Victoria offers something for every type of traveller.
RECONNECT AND RELAX OVER FOOD
Victoria’s cuisine scene takes full advantage of its surrounding coastal waters and rich farming regions, which results in food and drink selections that are uniquely diverse, flavourful, locally-sourced, and truly West Coast inspired.
For top-notch hotel restaurant dining steps away from the Inner Harbour, the Aura Waterfront Restaurant + Patio at the Inn at Laurel Point serves globally-inspired shareable small plates, paired with a curated wine list, local craft beer, and unique cocktails. From a brunch menu and ever-changing dinner options, to afternoon tea for two on weekends, you’re guaranteed to find the time to enjoy Aura’s bold tastes and beautiful plates.
Often referred to as Vancouver Island’s wine country, Saanich is home to a number of stellar wineries including deVine Wine & Spirits, Church & State Wines, and Deep Cove Winery. If cider is more to your liking, make a stop at Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse and enjoy a tasting flight overlooking the orchard and panoramic views of the water.
Delight in an exceptional Afternoon Tea set at The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden, with seasonal menus that showcase both regional and Abkhazi Garden-grown produce. You can take the English tea experience back with you with a stop at Murchies and Silk Road Tea for tea blends to brew at home.
Dallas Road. Photo provided by Destination Greater Victoria.
RECONNECT AND RELAX OUTDOORS
Nestled in beautiful, rugged west coast terrain amidst breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Olympic Mountains, the Greater Victoria area is home to dozens of provincial and regional parks and a vast network of bays, coves, beaches, and lakes. That said, there are countless places to feel revitalized while surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.
Massive trees, majestic waterfalls, a meandering river, and fascinating flora and wildlife are what drives visitors to Goldstream Provincial Park to recharge with a challenging hike or with a gentle forest bathing experience that’s just 16 km away from downtown Victoria.
Stretching 7 km from Fisherman’s Wharf to Clover Point Park, the scenic Dallas Road Waterfront Trail in Victoria is a walkway that’s paved along the coastline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and is ideal for walking, running, and dog-walking. For cyclers.
To listen to the sounds of rolling ocean waves breaking against a sandy shore, head to the sheltered Gonzales Beach in Fairfield.
Magnolia Hotel & Spa. Photo provided by Destination Greater Victoria.
RECONNECT AND RELAX IN A ROOM WITH A VIEW
Find a perfect room with an even better view at one of Greater Victoria’s ideal spaces to stay in the heart of the city and in the region’s surrounding areas.
Voted the #1 Top Hotel in Canada in the 2020 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards, Magnolia Hotel & Spa is Victoria's top luxury boutique hotel. Located just steps from the Inner Harbour, Magnolia offers elegant and spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, tranquil spa experiences at Spa Magnolia, fine dining at The Courtney Room, and a whole host of personalized services.
Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s picturesque seaside accommodations are located on a stunning stretch of coastline, with luxurious rooms and suites that showcase panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests can experience the ultimate in relaxation at the resort’s award-winning Boathouse Spa — Victoria’s one and only oceanfront spa — and at the three outdoor mineral pools situated on the edge of the Salish Sea.
And while you’re staying in Greater Victoria, why not indulge yourself? Try something you would normally save for a special occasion, such as upgrading your room, ordering room service, opting for a bottle of Vancouver Island wine with your restaurant dinner, or extending your stay, to make it a truly special experience.
Right now, if you book two or more consecutive nights at participating Greater Victoria hotels, you will receive a $75 VISA rewards card, which you can use towards dining, room upgrades, adventure packages, and more during your stay in Greater Victoria.
For more info, visit tourismvictoria.com/reconnect.
