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Photo: D. Gordon E. Robertson, Wikimedia Commons"
Tucked away on the community boundary of Fairfield and Oak Bay is garden with a story as amazing as its legendary rhododendrons.
The story is of the Princess Peggy and Prince Nicolas Abkhazi, their incredible lives had twists and turns and with the preservation of their garden by The Land Conservancy their love is eternally on display for the public to enjoy. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Abkhazi Garden, Abkhazi Gardens, The Land Conservancy, things to do Victoria BC, Victoria BC Garden, Victoria BC Gardens, Victoria Garden
Photo: Barbie Zipp
The turkey is the oven, squash, potatoes, corn and yams are ready to go. Mum and Dad have a full Thanksgiving Dinner planned for the family. No my parents are not early, here in Canada we celebrate the harvest season with a Thanksgiving Dinner on the second Monday in October.
Thanksgiving kicks off our Fall, it marks the harvest and getting ready for winter. For Victorians we do not pack away our outdoor activities just yet…the fall and winter provide for great hiking opportunities. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Canadian Thanksgiving, Capital Regional District Parks department, Fall in Victoria BC, Sooke Beach, Victoria BC Hiking, Victoria BC Parks, Victoria BC Things to Do
Fan Tan Trading Co
There are only two dates left for the Chinatown Night Market in Victoria, August 31 and September 28th from 5-9 PM. Victoria’s Chinatown will host this culturally-themed Night Market. The historic 500 block of Fisgard Street will be closed to traffic to accommodate food vendors, entertainment and artisans. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Chinatown Night Market, Chinatown Victoria BC, things to do in Victoria BC, Victoria BC walking tour
This week, Barbie, our Victoria Reservations Supervisor and frequent blog contributor brings us her 10 best ideas for summer fun!
Dallas Road Kite
1. Bike – book your bike aboard the Victoria Clipper or rent one in Victoria. We have great bicycle paths and designated bicycle lanes.
2. Beer – hop aboard a water taxi cruise over to the Songhees stop and walk over to Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub, yum.
3. Berries – drop by Niagara Grocery in James Bay to pick up a basket of locally grown Blueberries, Strawberries, Blackberries and Raspberries.
4. Brunch – Benny & Bacon! Many varieties of eggs benedict and other scrumptious breakfast items to choose from on the menu at the Flying Otter Grill located at 940 Wharf Street. Breakfast is served Monday – Friday 8am-11am and Saturday and Sundays from 8am-12pm.
5. Book & Beach – Pick up a book at Munro’s Books or Russell Books and head off to the beach. For a sandy beach head to Willows Beach in Oak Bay. You are sure to find a spot all to yourself along the 5km beach along Dallas Road.. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: activities, adventure, bike, Food, fun, summer, tips, top 10, Travel Seattle, Travel Victoria
Commerce Canoe by Illarion Gallant
When you arrive in Victoria’s inner harbour, by the Victoria Clipper, you have an amazing view of our cityscape. Dotted along the harbour are new and old buildings, each development with a story. I know you can see an art installation poking up between the heritage buildings, the tall green blades and red pods are visible from across the harbour, what is it that you have found? It is the ‘Commerce Canoe’ sculpture by artist Illarion Gallant.
Bastion Square is the heart of old town Victoria. Bastion Square was found by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1843 and became a bustling commerce section of Fort Victoria. Here you will find the first buildings to be erected in British Columbia after our Union into Canada. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: victoria things to do
The Windsor’s have always been in the public eye, but this year with the movie ‘Kings Speech’ and Royal wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, you can’t help but think about the Canadian connection to the British Monarchy.
Photo by, Todd Fulladosa
Canada is a Constitutional Monarchy, we are entirely sovereign nation, but the ‘Crown’ is what our country has been founded on and is very prominent in our Government. May 24th nationally we celebrate ‘Victoria Day’. The Sovereign’s birthday has been celebrated in Canada since the reign of Queen Victoria. (Queen Victoria was the Great-great Grandmother to Queen Elizabeth II). May 24 was Queen Victoria’s birthday, it was chosen to represent the ‘Sovereign’s Birthday’ and so this ‘Victoria Day’ we are celebrating our current Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. (Colin Firth won an Oscar for his portrayal of her father).
So how do the people of the Common Wealth demonstrate our respect for the ‘Sovereign’s Birthday? We take to the streets…for a parade!
May 23, 2011 will mark the 113th consecutive year of the ‘Victoria Day Parade’. Protocol has the Military head the parade at 09:00am sharp. To see the Military band makes your heart swell with pride and the bagpipes bring a tear to your eye. The Cadets then march from big to small, all well practiced.
Following the Military parade are series of colourful floats, clowns and marching bands from as far away as California! The parade route is 4km (about 2.5 miles) along Douglas Street. This provides enough space for the thousands that come to watch the parade.
When at the ‘Victoria Day’ parade is appropriate to fly both the Canadian and Union Jack Flag.
Tags: things to do in Victoria BC, travel to victoria bc, victoria bc, victoria bc activities
Naomh Pádraig Happy’s lá i Victoria, BC!
Ah, the prelude to spring…these past few sunny days have been crisp, but most importantly sunny. As the crocus start to bloom in the garden I know March is around the corner. After the winter months I look forward to celebrating anything and I may have some Irish heritage from my Great-Great Grandfather, so why not start planning my March 17th in downtown Victoria?
My St.Patrick’s day plan is take a tour to some Irish shops and a stop at a traditional public house, the fantastic part is this little tour can be accomplished in gentle 3 block stroll along Government Street.
Located in the heritage building on the corner of Broughton and Government Street is the “Out of Ireland Shop”. Fine Celtic goods from jewellery, woollen throws, ‘Guinness’ merchandise and more. While I am there I will look up my family’s name on the ‘Heraldic Name’ registry and see if they have my family’s crest.
Next stop, across the street, one block north on Government Street just before Fort St. is the “Irish Linen Stores”. This shop is a landmark for Victoria; it has been open since 1910. When you step into the shop you are transported back in time, fine Irish linens and laces from around the world are on display. My husband Ed bought me two beautiful lace butterfly pins, absolutely delicate and magical. Treat yourself to a fine linen handkerchief or splurge on a table cloth.
Goodies in hand, I must get to the pub early to get my table for some St.Patrick’s day feasting! Heading north on Government Street, just a block north of the Irish Linen Stores is the “Irish Times Pub“.
On the northwest corner of Bastion Square, located at Government and View Street is the impressive Francis Rattenbury designed 1896 building. This old Bank of Montreal building is now the home of The Irish Times Pub.
Irish Beer Sampler
With the brass and stained glass, this building just feels like the right place to tuck into some Irish foods; Irish stew, corned beef and cabbage, soda bread and sample their Irish colcannon. Irish colcannon; is traditionally made from mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, butter, salt, and pepper. It can contain other ingredients such as milk, cream, leeks, onions, chives, garlic, boiled ham or Irish bacon.
The doors will open at 11:00am and a full day of music and food is lined up for this St. Patrick’s day:
11:00 with Bobby Smith- solo artist- the classic Pub entertainer; he has a banjo and great songs and jokes.
Quin and Qristina- 1:30 to 4:30- They have just been named best upcoming new Celtic musicians in Canada
5:00-7:00- Jeremy Walsh- High energy Celtic Music8:30-close- Black Angus- a
3 piece Celtic Band with a stand up bass , guitar and vocals
Between all sets the Celtic dancers from the O’Brien School of dance will perform.
Gártha! (Cheers!)
Tags: st. patricks day, Victoria BC getaway, Victoria vacation
Romance for me is the company, the mood and the food. It depends on your taste. Allow me to make a few suggestions for romantic dining in Victoria.
Ferris’ Oyster Bar and Grill is a personal favorite for me. It is a romantic spot for my partner and I. When we dated we ended up having many meals here. We were married in 1997. Working in tourism I get asked for restaurant recommendations often and this spot has consistently pleased my guests.
Mood – located in a historic brick building on lower Yates Street. Warm bare wood tables and chairs, exposed brick walls and artwork to spark a conversation.
Food – Ferris’ have expanded and divided the restaurant into two dining spots in one building. On the main floor is Ferris’ Grill, casual, cozy dining and it has an all weather atrium. The atrium provides a unique option for a romantic lunch. If you are thinking of dinner try the upstairs Ferris’ Oyster Bar. Ferris’ Oyster Bar offers an upscale menu; its decor echoes the main floors Ferris’ Grill wood and brick tones but accented by candle light.
Exceptional food – local, fresh, and delightful. They have plates to share, main dishes to make your mouth water just reading the menu.
Oysters – we are so fortunate to live on an Island abundant with oysters. In other parts of the country, fine restaurants have to fly their oyster orders in. This means many people have not had the luxury of tasting an oyster. If you have never tried and oyster, don’t be shy let the staff know. The staff will educate you on the Oyster selection. For your first time I recommend trying a baked oyster like the ‘Bottecelli’ a baked oyster enrobed in a hearty Percorino romano, cracked pepper, lemon and breadcrumb, and a single is just $3.00. My first fresh Oyster was at Ferris’!
According to folklore oysters are an aphrodisiac, so go ahead and test out the legend.
http://www.ferrisoysterbar.com/
Next to Ferris’ is Waddington Alley. Take a step back in time when you enter the short narrow lane connecting the lower ends of Yates and Johnson Street. Waddington Alley is the only street in Victoria still paved with wood cobblestone.
On the other end of the Waddington Alley is ‘Il Terrazzo’. Il Terrazzo has been voted Victoria’s best Italian restaurant year after year. The staff works hard to maintain this distinction.
Mood – I find our heritage brick buildings romantic, and the owners of Il Terrazzo have made every effort to offer a romantic setting. There are six brick fire places and all the tables are set with candles.
Food – Il Terrazzo has a wood burning oven that can be seen from the dining room. A traditional Italian menu features wood-oven roasted meats and pizza, made on site fresh pasta and decadent deserts. Their wine list is vast. According Rob Scales ISG, head Sommelier, in addition to their impressive selection of wine Il Terrazzo has a wine program. The wine program addresses components such as quality stemware, cellar conditions, staff education, and cellar management.
Reservations are highly recommended.
My final recommendation for romantic dining, breakfast in bed! Ask our agents about our Romantic Package options. Or order room service. Have a leisurely start to the day, you both deserve it.
Tags: restaurants in Victoria BC, valentines day, Victoria dining
Winter solstice is soon approaching and it has me dreaming of a winter retreat. I am planning a winter wonderland getaway. I want to frolic in the snow, not shovel it off the stoop.
I have chosen to go see the snow and play. I am packing an overnight bag, picking out my snappy hat, gloves and scarf set and heading to the mountains. Okay…so when I say ‘play’ in the snow, I mean, city girl gets the chance to commune with nature, over a cup of hot cocoa.
Here is the plan, I will take off to Vancouver, BC. I think a two night stay downtown will be plenty of time to stock up on gourmet goodies at the Granville Island Market and gorge on Jiaozi and noodles at Hon’s on Robson street followed by shopping. I will allow for a whole day for Grouse Mountain.
Grouse Mountain was the home to NBC’s “Today” show during the 2010 Winter Olympics. When you are in Vancouver and you look north and see amazing snow capped mountains, you are looking at Grouse Mountain.
With the price of admission, just $39.95 (& Free for Tots under 4 yrs.) we will have access to all sorts of winter fun! It all begins with the “Skyride” that is the cable gondola car that you ride high above the tree tops. The snowy peaks against the view of the city and ocean offer an amazing view. From there I plan to ice skate on the 8,000 square foot pond, also included with the admission fee. Afterward I will rest my feet while on the sleigh ride through the mountain trails with my cocoa! (And yes, with whipped cream please).
Grouse Mountain also has snow shoeing, skiing and snow boarding. It truly offers a wide variety of fun for an entire family to enjoy time together this holiday season. One activity, from November 27th – December 24th, is The Peak of Christmas. “Sleigh Bells Ring and choirs sing!” You can view the entire schedule of Christmas fun at Grouse Mountain here.
My brother in law sent me his photos of Grouse Mountain to inspire me…I am packing my bags now! If you feel inclined to check it out yourself this winter, let Clipper Vacations make it easy, by scheduling your trip to Vancouver, BC.
Tags: BC, Grouse Mountain, ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, Vancouver
To really get into the mood of the holidays I love to visit the shops in downtown Victoria. I love to wander in and out of the shops, talking to the small store owners, getting inspirations for holiday decorating and giving. There are so many events downtown and I love the old brick buildings, the leaded glass windows and the decorations! I somehow feel closer to the holiday spirit when winding my way through our lovely Victorian town.
To really experience a true Victorian Holiday, you must make a visit to Point Ellice House and the Craigdarroch Castle, Victorias two heritage treasures that are a must visit any time of the year, but during the holidays they are truly magical.
I suggest taking BC Transit bus #14 to both destinations. A one way fare is $2.50 or you can purchase an unlimited day pass for $7.75. You can board the #14 from Douglas St at Johnson (Westbound) for Point Ellice house 2619 Pleasant Street (last right off Bay Street before the Bay St. Bridge).
Your trip will take you through an industrial part of Victoria, dont fret you are just steps away from a hidden gem, the Point Ellice House. The Point Ellice house was built in 1857, it now sits on a little slip of green space overlooking the Gorge waterway, the land and the home has been preserved and is now a National Heritage site. In 1859 it was home to Mr. Peter OReilly and his family. Mr. OReilly served as a Justice of Peace, Stipendiary Magistrate, he held the posts of Gold Commissioner, Collector of Revenue, Assistant Commissioner of Lands, Indian Agent, and Coroner. Finally in 1881, Peter O’Reilly retired as a judge. His family was known to be great hosts to both Government and Business alike. The home and all its records were preserved by three generations of OReillys then finally sold in 1975 to the Province of British Columbia in 1975. The home is a treasure of written records and furnishings from 1859 and onwards. It is one of North Americas largest collections of Victoriana in its original, privileged Victorian home.
The OReilly tradition of opening their home to guests continues to this day, and during the holidays you can even take high tea at the home! To launch the holiday festivities there will be a Victorian Bizarr November 19th & 20th you will be able purchase Victorian inspired gifts to help support the Point Ellice house society. Mark your calendar, be sure to reserve your House tour and Tea as it will only be available the following dates: Fridays and Saturdays: November 26 27, December 3 4, December 10 11, and December 17 18, from 11:00am to 3:00 pm.
Also note a special reading and tour with historian John Adams November 26th and December 10th 10:00am 11:00am.
Full luncheon tea is $23 per person plus HST (which includes the house audio tour). Please reserve by phone (250) 380-6506 or email: ellicehouse@gmail.com
Now that you seen a Victorian home, how about a Victorian castle? From the Point Ellice house you can re-board bus #14 heading Eastbound for the Craigdarroch Castle 1050 Joan Crescent (Off Fort Street)
I have grown up with the Castle in my neighbourhood; well actually my Grandparents lived around the bend on Joan Crescent. I love to visit the castle. A word of caution there are many stairs to climb, but it is worth the effort. The Castle was the dream project of Coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. A very wealthy man started the project in 1887, but died before its completion in 1890. The Castle has been many institutions; it has taken over 30 years to restore the Castle to its current condition of a true Victorian mansion. It takes over one month to decorate the Castle for the holidays. It is transformed into a breath taking Victorian holiday display. If there is a scrooge amongst your group, the splendour will impress and maybe even warm their cold coal heart. The Castle has several Christmas trees, featuring Victorian decorations and toys. During the holiday hours there are singers, musicians and selected dates Father Christmas. On selected evenings there is a special family tour of the Castle where you can learn about Victorian Christmas traditions and enjoy cider and cookies in the pantry at the end of the tour. Check the calendar for the festivities! OPEN 10:00 AM TO 4:30 PM FOR SELF-GUIDED TOURS (To allow our staff and volunteers to enjoy the holidays, we will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.) All entertainment is included with regular admission ~ Adult: $12.00, Senior: $11.00, Student (19+): $8.00, Child (6 – 18): $4.00, Child (5 and under): no charge
Family Night tours will only be held: December 19th & 20th Doors open 15 minutes prior – Tours start at 6:30 or 7 pm both nights. Family Night tour prices; Adult: $14.50 Senior: $13.50 Student (19+ with ID): $10.50 Child (6-18): $6.50 Child (5 & under) Free
Tags: Craigdarroch Castle, Point Ellice House, victoria bc, Victorian Christmas
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