Castles and Waterfalls

Good weather fortune continues and a small journey to Hatley Castle seems to be in order. The beautiful grounds overlook the sound and the magnificent Olympic Mountains, a breathtaking setting.

















The gardens here are just as impressive as the ones we visited yesterday, just smaller and quite serene. There is not the throng of visitors that Butchart garners, and the peace is extravagant.

Before touring the castle itself, we stroll through the gardens, again enjoying the different venues it allows. The rose garden is in full bloom, housing heirloom roses dating back to the 1500s. Incredible. Balance in the Japanese garden is palpable and meandering through the area, complete with tea house overlooking ponds and arched bridges, is pure heaven.


Peacocks prance and hens with their babies are spotted often along our stroll.







































The castle itself is quite impressive.
"Money doesn't matter, just build what I want." This is the quote of the original owner, James Dunsmuir, and is apparent in the spectacle we witness today. Taking only 18 months to complete is much more understandable when cost is no option whatsoever.


Today the castle and it's beautiful gardens are part of Royal Roads University and the castle actually serves as administrative headquarters. This would be a very nice place to come to work each day indeed!


We have one more excursion this afternoon before we call it a day. We've heard of a little waterfall called Niagara. A short drive brings us to the beautiful Goldstream Provinal Park where it's found. Just a 15-minute hike brings us to an area of such bliss, it's hard to imagine. The fall is almost as high as it's famous namesake, but quiet and serene. Hidden in a corner of this park where it's not even marked, we have to inquire several times to find it's location. It is, indeed, a magical and mystical spot. We are fortunate to have witnessed it's beauty.

The day has been filled with special moments and the glory of Victoria has been fully appreciated.

Exploring the Inner Harbor

With so much to see and the weather absolutely beautiful, we can't wait to go and explore some of what the Inner Harbour has to offer.

As directed by several guides, we board the little Victoria Harbour Ferry to begin our adventure. The captains are all very helpful as we hop on and off exploring. It's definitely the ticket to viewing this area the most efficiently and fun way possible.


A stop in Chinatown is not what we think it will be so we don't linger very long. Further along our route we find the Craigdarroch Castle and this excursion enjoy quite a bit. What a beautifully restored piece of architecture is here. The views from the higher rooms are amazing and though the inside furnishings are not originals, they've taken great pain in attempting to still furnish lavishly. This is a must see while in Victoria.


Interesting architecture abounds and the flowers adorn everywhere. It is the picture book perfect seaside village which surrounds all areas of the harbour.


Float homes at Fisherman's Wharf and West Bay Marine Village are enchanting and we all pick our favorite home we'd choose to buy. Both areas are markedly individual. The busy Wharf allows visitors to meander all around and is hopping with activity while the laid back and more private West Bay seems quite calm and near deserted save the neighboring RV park which is full of summer travelers. Each marina is full of character and provides docks for a plethora of small and large vessels boasting fun names. Job Less tickles the most!



The colors are vibrant and the people so friendly. We're thrilled with all there is to take in. Victoria is one beautiful place, just as we've heard.