Victoria, British Columbia - Three nights
Victoria is the perfect pocket-sized city to stroll around and immerse yourself in for a few days.
Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and has recently been voted Canada's best small city, and we have to agree.
We arrived on a short 30-minute seaplane flight from Vancouver. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry, but if you are short on time, we recommend the seaplane experience.
This charming and colourful city sits on the southern end of Vancouver Island, is full of beautiful parklands, is known for outdoor activities, and is surrounded by coastline. The city's British colonial past shows its Victorian architecture, gardens and layout.
The city is bursting with fresh flowers and exudes a genuine warmth from all the people. We felt very welcomed and loved exploring and enjoying the laidback nature.
You are spoilt with the fresh farm-to-table dining options, and we enjoyed a very slow lunch with exceptional cocktails and service at The Courtney Room.
We loved all the wildlife as we roamed around the immaculate gardens. One morning we came across a turtle sunbaking, a heron nesting, a wild deer strolling along the pathway, and squirrels playing in the park. Later in the day, we saw a sea lion and otter playing around, hoping to be fed by a nearby restaurant, and caught a glimpse of a seal as we arrived across the harbour on our water taxi! Special moments!
We loved exploring Fisherman's Wharf Park, a pleasant stroll from the centre of Victoria, a quaint floating pier of food outlets and floating homes.