subject: Insider Information Wildlife And Forests Winter Attractions Golfing Getaways Snowboarding Fun Pictur [print this page] Scenic Attractions and Victoria Hotels Scenic Attractions and Victoria Hotels
Victoria is Western Canada's oldest city, founded in 1843 as a Hudson Bay Company trading post and named in honor of Queen Victoria. Victorias charms are helped along by its moderate climate and British heritage proudly on display in its elegant homes, neighborhoods, and stunning architectural gems such as the famous Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings. Stay in Victoria hotels that put you within yards of these architectural gems or stay in one of them for the experience. After a $45 million restoration, you get to enjoy the grandeur and elegance of a bygone age with 4 diamond hotel service. Other scenic attractions that you should include in your itinerary are Beacon Hill Park, a beloved expanse of green with its formal rose gardens, a band shell for outdoor summer concerts, and a petting zoo; Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada covering 55 acres of breathtaking floral showcases. Theres also the spectacular City Hall, designed in 1875 and conceived in the "Second Empire" style.
Victoria Hotels for Romantic Getaways
Romance is in the air in the beautiful city of Victoria. The city is blessed with the mildest climate in Canada and the most annual sunshine in British Columbia, keeping the "Garden City" in bloom all year round. The ocean is never far away when youre in Victoria, and youll get to enjoy long leisurely afternoon walks by the beach while watching the sunset. Stay in some of the most romantic Victoria hotels such as the Norwegian Fjord Horses Bed and Breakfast. Nestled on an active Norwegian Fjord horse farm, amidst rural forested grounds just 20 minutes from downtown Victoria, this is the perfect escape for couples. Another option is The Gazebo Bed and Breakfast; a country manor house a few yards away from world-famous Butchart Gardens. To put you close to the great harbor views and the Clipper, Victoria Express and Port Angeles Ferries, the ocean, stay at The Albion Manor Bed & Breakfast. The Albion is a quiet retreat thats still near the places you would want to visit in Victoria. Savor a full English breakfast on antique crystal and china at the Amethyst Inn at Regents Park, an expertly-restored historic mansion dating from 1890.
Boutique Victoria Hotels
Victorias old world charm blends well with the latest trends in design and comfort with its extensive collection of boutique Victoria hotels. This can be experienced in its splendid array of boutique hotels, starting with the plush interiors of Victorias art hotel, the Swans Suite Hotel. One of the many Victoria hotels right in the heart of Old Town, youll enjoy a bit of seclusion here with the property having just 29 suites. Youll also find here Swans famous brewpub with its award winning beers, a bistro with nightly live music, and some of the finest original art pieces crafted by local artists. Another showcase of design and elegance is Victoria's only five star oceanfront resort; the Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa. Recognized as Victoria's only five star oceanfront resort; it features posh interiors, contemporary coastal cuisine, and a full-service spa. This resort is also a few yards away from must-see Butchart Gardens. Another great option is Abigails Hotel, just a few blocks away from downtown Victoria's main attractions, Inner Harbour, parks and museums. This property features first-class amenities such as Jacuzzi soaker baths and wood-burning fireplaces. Abigails features a three course gourmet breakfast, personally presented by the Executive Chef, and evening hors d'oeuvres to start your fine dining experience. Also worth looking into are The Bedford Regency and The Magnolia Hotel & Spa.
Victoria Hotels for Golf Getaways
Why head out to Victoria for a great round of golf?Start with this; the city has been selected by Cond Nast Traveler Magazine readers as the #2 Top City in the Americas. Another reason for planning a golf getaway to Victoria is the Arbutus Ridge Golf Club. Voted the Best Destination Golf Course in British Columbia by Golf Nerve Magazine readers in 2006, the course features three of the most demanding finishing holes on Vancouver Island. Nestled amidst the seaside community of Cobble Hill, Arbutus Ridge puts you right on the home of some of Vancouver Islands finest wineries. Opening its gates in the summer of 2003, Bear Mountain Resort was immediately rated the number 1 new course in Western Canada. You might also want to try Bear Mountain Resort Mountain Course, a Jack and Steve Nicklaus co-designed golf course. Sister course Bear Mountain Valley is equally impressive with its world-renowned Sant Spa, great dining options, the state-of-the-art Mountainside Athletic Club, and a Nicklaus Golf Academy. Its sister course is Bear Mountain Valley, an equally impressive course which features a host of unique amenities. Other golf courses you should consider are the Highland Pacific Golf and the Olympic View Golf Club. Its large natural grass driving areas, realistic target greens, and short-game practice areas are great for helping you hone your skills.
