subject: Relaxing Underwater Wonders Winter Fun Dream Vacation Activities For The Athletic Traveler Magnifice [print this page] Winter Getaways and Victoria Hotels Winter Getaways and Victoria Hotels
Victoria enjoys temperate climes all year round but its still a great place to visit in the winter. A number of Victoria hotels feature some of the best slopes for skiing and snowboarding in Canada. Start with Vancouver Islands largest skiing and snowboarding site, Mount Washington. Easily accessed from both Courtenay and Campbell River, this resort gives you some of the best alpine adventures around: from snowboarding to cross-country skiing. When the snow melts, youll have the opportunity to hike the breathtaking trails, go mountain biking, or simply enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Another great winter destination is Apex, Canada's Top Small Destination Resort. Offering a range of activities for families, this resort boasts of 2000 vertical feet of dry Okanagan powder that youll definitely have a blast in. You should also consider Big White Ski Resort, Canada's largest exclusively ski-in/ski-out resort village. Located in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley near Kelowna, Big White features 15 lifts that lead you to 2,765 acres of slopes covered by natural champagne powder. Excellent winter fun can also be had at these Victoria hotels: Sun Peaks, an award-winning year-round destination mountain resort; and Fernie Alpine Resort, with its legendary powder.
British Columbia Attractions and Victoria Hotels
British Columbia is an excellent option for your next adventure. Featuring over than 1,100 different wildlife species and some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, British Columbia presents plenty of opportunities to watch wildlife and take in the spectacular surroundings. British Columbia boasts of some of the most unforgettable scenery, with majestic mountains soaring up to 9,843ft, ancient old-growth forests, caves, hoodoos (ancient, stone-like pillars), and wide stretches of sandy beaches. Victoria hotels will serve as a good jump-off point for all your adventures, from hiking through alpine meadows, exploring Canada's highest waterfalls, to simply enjoying the soothing natural hot springs of British Columbia. The abundant wildlife will surely captivate you, so plan for bird watching tours; and if the season is right, take a whale watching tour and witness these magnificent creatures slice through the pristine waters of the region. Bald eagles may be soaring above so keep an eye out for these magnificent creatures, also keep your eyes and ears peeled for mountain goats, moose, and caribou.
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. Enjoy the slick 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. Within the property are the Swans famous brewpub that serves award winning beers, a bistro that features nightly live music, and some of the finest pieces of original local art. Elegant design is the theme that reigns over The Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa. The property is Victoria's only five star oceanfront resort; it features elegantly-appointed interiors, contemporary coastal cuisine, and a full-service spa. The Brentwood is also a short walk away from world-renowned Butchart Gardens. You should also look up Abigails Hotel, just a short walk away from downtowns main attractions, Inner Harbour, parks and museums. This top-class property features Jacuzzi soaker baths and wood-burning fireplaces. A stay in this hotel includes a three course gourmet breakfast, personally presented by the Executive Chef, and evening hors d'oeuvres. Other excellent options are The Bedford Regency and The Magnolia Hotel & Spa.
Downtown Victoria Hotels
Downtown Victoria is the best place to experience the Garden City in its entirety. The downtown area offers some of the best shopping destinations: Antique Row on Fort Street, the charming little shops in Market Square, the dainty gift shops that dot Government Street. Look for downtown Victoria hotels that are just a short walk away from the major attractions of the city: the majestic Legislative Buildings, ivy-covered Empress Hotel, and the entertainments of Inner Harbour. Experience Inner Harbour to the fullest by walking along the causeway while enjoying the ambience of local musicians, jugglers, and artists; or head out into the great big blue to go high-speed whale-watching aboard a zodiac; or hop aboard a yacht for a luxurious dinner cruise. Make time for the Undersea Gardens, Royal London Wax Museum, Crystal Gardens, and Miniature World if youre bringing the family. Victoria also features great museums, including the world-renowned Royal British Columbia Museum, plus historic sites such as Fort Rodd Hill in Esquimalt and Craigdarroch Castle.
