Greater Victoria
Greater Victoria is comprised of 13 municipalities encompassing over 900 square miles on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. With a population of approximately 350,000 people, it is the capital of British Columbia and originally a Hudson Bay Company trading post. During the 1800's, the areas population exploded after the discovery of gold, leaving behind an era of beautiful Edwardian style homes that give Victoria its charm and character.
A popular stop for cruise ships and tourists, Victoria hosts many events and festivals in its downtown inner harbour. Here you will find fantastic restaurants, shops, hotels, European pubs and nightclubs spread all throughout "Old Town" where you can try some of the world's best West Coast craft beers. Take in a play at the Belfry or Royal Theatre, or see your favourite performer or hockey team at the Save on Foods Memorial Centre. However, if you are looking for recreational activity, take your pick from hundreds of golf courses, sailing or kayaking, scuba diving, bicycling, running, rock climbing, whale watching... just about anything you can think of! Skiing or snowboarding is only a few hours away in Courtenay, and you don't have to leave the island! Prefer to surf... how about the pristine beaches of Jordan River and Tofino in Pacific Rim National Park? Victoria is one of the most healthy and active communities in Canada!
Another geographical advantage to Victoria is that we are isolated by ocean from the large metropolises of Vancouver and Seattle, but are only a short ferry ride, sea plane, or heli-jet away when you get the urge for a visit... say the 2010 Winter Olympics. Looking for something unique? From the same terminal you can branch out to the hundreds of Gulf Islands or San Juan islands in Washington. Island hopping is the West-Coaster's favourite past time, exploring the many beautiful coastal communities scattered throughout the Strait of Georgia, in search of a sleeper winery, cidery, cheese factory, B&B, or Artisan's workshop.
Even with everything going for it, Victoria is most popular amongst Canadians and tourists for its spectacular summers and mild winters. It is actually classified as a Mediterranean climate and is the sunniest and driest city in Canada, rarely receiving snowfall even in its coldest months (less than 5 cm/yr). This is in part due to the rain shadow effect whereby Victoria benefits from its proximity to the Olympic Mountains as they block precipitation coming in from the Pacific. As well, they provide a lovely backdrop of snowcapped mountains when you look to the south. This climate has inspired many wineries to sprout up in rural areas, as well as orchards, and large farms with organic produce. A short drive down West Saanich Rd is all you need to pick up seasonal local organic produce, dairy, eggs, chicken or beef. Healthy eating equals healthy living!
Please browse through our website by scrolling and clicking either through the interactive map or drop down menu to familiarize yourself with all that the city has to offer. Discover why us islanders love to call Victoria home!