A recent shoulder-season stay at The Magnolia Hotel and Spa in Victoria inspired me to consider the hidden gems of this serene, quieter time of year on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
In fact, from indulgent spa retreats to forest walks, family-friendly faves to quirky, off-the-beaten-path adventures, Greater Victoria offers something for every traveller. Ready to plan your next Victoria getaway? Take this quiz and discover what the B.C. capital has in store for you in 2025!
1. What’s your idea of a perfect afternoon?
A. Exploring historic landmarks with a touch of elegance.
B. Watching your kids learn and play at unique attractions.
C. Wandering through art galleries and museums.
D. Sampling local food and drinks with a side of adventure.
E. Hanging out with friends at quirky spots or enjoying unusual activities.
F. Unwinding with a soothing spa treatment or shopping for luxury goods.
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2. Which activity excites you most?
A. Touring castles and sipping tea in a beautiful garden.
B. Visiting a bug zoo or a prehistoric lab with the family.
C. Viewing world-renowned art exhibits and cultural treasures.
D. Exploring funky restaurants and vibrant pubs.
E. Participating in edgier experiences like escape rooms or hot tub boats.
F. Enjoying a peaceful massage or browsing for exclusive products in local boutiques.
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3. What’s your must-try dining experience?
A. A refined afternoon tea at a historic tea house.
B. A family-friendly spot with games or interactive dining.
C. A locally sourced brunch in a cosy café.
D. A lively pub or an elegant dining experience with waterfront views.
E. A fun, funky eatery with unusual menus or vibrant décor.
F. Dining at an upscale restaurant sharing spa-like calm and indulgence.
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4. Who’s coming with you on this trip?
A. My partner or a close friend who appreciates history and elegance.
B. My kids – it’s a family affair!
C. A fellow art enthusiast who loves cultural experiences.
D. My foodie friend who’s always up for trying new places.
E. A group of pals who love adventure and trying new things.
F. It’s just me … or a close friend who wants to relax and rejuvenate.
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5. Which setting appeals to you most?
A. A grand castle surrounded by stunning gardens.
B. A lively, interactive attraction where kids can explore.
C. An inspiring art gallery or museum.
D. A bustling pub or a trendy restaurant.
E. A quirky, off-the-beaten-path place filled with surprises.
F. A luxurious spa with serene views and calming sounds.
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6. What’s your perfect souvenir?
A. A photo at the top of a castle staircase or iconic garden.
B. A bug-themed trinket or wildlife stuffy for the kids.
C. A unique piece of art or a handcrafted item.
D. A bottle of locally crafted beer, cider or wine, or a cookbook from a favourite restaurant.
E. Something special from a cool local shop, like a handmade item or offbeat trinket.
F. Scented candles, luxurious lotions, or a custom fragrance.
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7. How do you like to start your day?
A. With a relaxing tea and treats at a café.
B. With a family-friendly adventure that gets everyone excited.
C. With a hearty brunch before browsing the shops and galleries.
D. With a coffee and a plan to explore Victoria’s culinary scene.
E. With a unique experience like a scavenger hunt or cold-water dip.
F. With a calming spa treatment to set the tone for a relaxing day.
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8. What’s your ideal place to stay?
A. A boutique hotel with a touch of luxury.
B. A family-friendly spot with easy access to kid-friendly attractions.
C. A hotel near cultural hotspots like art galleries and museums.
D. A place close to downtown pubs and restaurants for easy exploring.
E. A fun and quirky accommodation to match my off-beat adventures.
F. A luxurious, peaceful retreat, such as a resort or wellness hotel.
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Hatley Castle is among the many National Historic Sites to explore in B.C.’s capital city. Katrina Leslie / West Coast Traveller photo
Mostly As. Castles and tea weekend tour
You love elegance, history and a little indulgence. Victoria’s historic castles, gardens and relaxing tea experiences will captivate you. Tour Craigdarroch Castle and Hatley Castle, then enjoy afternoon tea at The Empress or The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden.
Afterward, stroll Butchart Gardens or visit the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria for a touch of culture. For a luxurious meal, visit the Courtney Room at The Magnolia Hotel and Spa, and unwind at The Spa Magnolia, Havn Sauna or Float House Victoria.
Where to Stay: The Magnolia Hotel and Spa, The Empress Hotel or Abigail’s Hotel
Where to Eat: Courtney Room, Q at the Empress, Pagliacci’s, Nautical Nellies Steak & Seafood House, L’ Apéro Wine and Cheese Bistro or Piggy & Paisley in nearby James Bay.
VR adventures, Wildplay and educational experiences are among the highlights for families exploring the capital city! Katrina Leslie / West Coast Traveller photo
Mostly Bs. Kid-friendly weekend
A family-friendly trip filled with adventure is what you’re looking for. Take the kids to the Victoria Bug Zoo, Dino Lab or Royal BC Museum for a little inspired learning. For interactive play, head to Haunted Manor: Mini-Golf + Ping Pong Lounge, Pinhalla Pinball & Pizzeria or Infusion VR Arcade or take to the trees at WildPlay.
With mild year-round temperatures, many outdoor adventures are free and offer lots of opportunity to burn off a little steam. Excellent options include Beacon Hill Park, steps from downtown, Goldstream Provincial Park, Cadboro Bay Beach and Cadboro-Gyro Park, and for biking enthusiasts, the Jordie Lunn Bike Park in Langford.
After a busy day, enjoy family-friendly meals at Le Petit Chef – Victoria or finish the play at WildPlay then fuel up at a local favourite, My-Chosen Café in Metchosin.
Where to Stay: Oswego Hotel, Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, Hotel Zed Victoria
Where to Eat: Le Petit Chef – Victoria, Interactivity Board Game Café, Fisherman’s Wharf, My-Chosen Café, Floyd’s Diner James Bay, Tacofino Victoria, Piggy & Paisley.
Works by Andy Warhol at Kelowna Art Gallery, part of the exhibition From Warhol to Banksy at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, on through April 25, 2025. Courtesy of the Paul and Tracy Mitchell Collection. Photo by Yuri Akuney, Digital Perfection, courtesy of Kelowna Art Gallery.
Mostly Cs. Art lover’s weekend
Your perfect weekend is all about creativity and inspiration. Explore the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (currently hosting the ‘From Warhol to Banksy’ exhibit until April 27), and downtown, Mark Loria Gallery and Madrona Gallery.
For a helping of culture, visit the Royal BC Museum, Victoria Chinatown Museum and the Maritime Museum of B.C. With time to spare, check out Craigdarroch Castle, just a few minutes’ drive from downtown, and The Avenue Gallery in the quaint, walkable village of Oak Bay.
Where to Stay: The Magnolia Hotel and Spa, The Oak Bay Beach Hotel, The Empress, Inn at Laurel Point,
Where to Eat: Courtney Room, Jam Cafe, Blue Fox Cafe, Nourish Kitchen & Cafe, Steamship Grill, Flying Otter Grill, L’ Apéro Wine and Cheese Bistro
From elevated meals at the Courtney Room (pictured) to casual local favourites like Red Fish Blue Fish and the Blue Fox Cafe, food lovers love Victoria. Leila Kwok photo / Courtesy Magnolia Hotel & Spa
Mostly Ds. Food-focused weekend
Indulge in the culinary delights that Victoria has to offer. Whether you’re craving elegant dining at the Courtney Room or delicious pub food from Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub – Canada’s oldest licensed brewpub – you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds. Dining destinations like Spinnakers, Wind Cries Mary and 10 Acres are also keenly focused on local ingredients and suppliers – offering a real taste of the region.
Don’t miss Blue Crab for fresh seafood or Blue Fox Cafe for brunch, and international experiences that span global cuisines, including delicious opportunities at MAiiZ Nixtamal and Don Mee, in Canada’s oldest Chinatown, Japanese Village and for amazing Italian cuisine, Il Covo Trattoria, in James Bay.
Popular food tours like ‘A Taste of Victoria Food Tours’ or ‘Off The Eaten Track’ also offer an insider’s knowledge and the chance to sample an array of diverse flavours the region is known for. You’ll also find an exceptional selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
Where to Stay: The Magnolia Hotel and Spa, Inn at Laurel Point, Hotel Zed Victoria
Unique opportunities in downtown Victoria include one-of-a-kind boutiques and destinations like Zingaro Floal Perfumery. Katrina Leslie / West Coast Traveller photos
Mostly Es. Off-beat friend’s getaway
You’re all about quirky, unconventional experiences. From Hot Tub Boats and escape rooms to Pinhalla and The Rolling Barrel Tours, Victoria offers plenty of quirky ways to enjoy the city. Create a custom fragrance from Zingaro Floral Perfumery, pick up a stylish new outfit at the one-of-a-kind boutiques in Old Town, and when it’s time to eat, try the Sour Pickle Cafe, L’ Apéro Wine and Cheese Bistro or the elegant fair at the Courtney Room.
Where to Stay: Hotel Zed Victoria, Fisherman’s Wharf Bed & Breakfast, Abigail’s Hotel, Huntingdon Hotel & Suites
Where to Eat: The Sour Pickle Cafe, Flying Otter Grill, Jam Cafe, Bard & Banker, Le Petit Chef – Victoria, Wind Cries Mary, Ugly Duckling Dining & Provisions, L’ Apéro Wine and Cheese Bistro, Japanese Village
Unwind on your own or with a friend – Victoria is full of unique relaxing experiences perfect for a weekend focused on self-care.
Mostly Fs: Spa-tastic/self-care weekend
You’re looking to unwind and indulge in pure relaxation. Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience at The Spa Magnolia, Havn Sauna, Ritual Nordic Spa or Float House Victoria. Enjoy an afternoon of shopping for boutique luxury goods at Murchie’s Fine Tea & Coffee or Zingaro Floral Perfumery and then head over to The Royal Theatre for a show or check out the ‘From Warhol to Banksy’ exhibit at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.
Where to Stay: The Magnolia Hotel and Spa, The Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Abigail’s Hotel
Where to Eat: The Courtney Room, Café Brio, The Blue Crab Seafood House, Nourish Kitchen & Cafe, L’ Apéro Wine and Cheese Bistro, The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden
Whatever your ideal Victoria vacay looks like, enjoy!
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