Table for Two? Our Favourite Restaurants in Victoria

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There are a few things that set Vancouver Island, British Columbia apart as a Canadian travel destination. Undoubtedly, we have incredible natural landscapes, endless outdoor activities that you can do all year ‘round, safe, walkable historical towns and cities, a rich First Nations history and culture plus excellent shopping and dining experiences. What might be surprising though is that in the capital city Victoria, BC, the dining scene is so robust and vibrant that the food served here rivals the quality of even the largest gastro-centric metropoleis! Like all cities, the trick to a great meal is to get to know where the locals eat – but don’t worry we’ve got you covered! No matter what you’re looking for, whether it’s somewhere to spend a special evening, a cozy bistro to enjoy the ambience and local food or a casual eatery to fill up for a long walk or cycle, we’ve rounded up our favourite Victoria restaurants to visit while you’re in town!

Fine Dining

Café Brio

944 Fort St, Victoria

If you’re in the mood to celebrate your vacation in style then Café Brio is a must-try! Through wrought iron gates covered with vines, this unassuming but elegant facadé hides an intimate dining room with Italian inspired, rustic Pacific Northwest cuisine. So sit back, relax, sip a Sangiovese and enjoy a truly decadent and thoughtfully created menu. 

Brasserie L’Ecole

1715 Government St, Victoria

Year after year this bistro right near the entrance to Chinatown, is one of the best restaurants in the city! Here, you can find local seasonal ingredients transformed into decadent French-country inspired dishes. From homemade paté and moules frites to decadently juicy burgers and truffle fries, the Brasserie takes comfort food to a whole new level. 

Saveur

658 Herald St, Victoria 

Looking for a foodie centric restaurant that is upscale and contemporary? Then you need to make a reservation at Saveur. With an eye to seasonal, local ingredients, contemporary French inspired fare, and eye-poppingly beautiful plates, chef Robert Cassels elevates our local humble ingredients into edible art. The only difficult thing about eating at Saveur is going to be deciding what to order!

Il Terrazzo

555 Johnson St, Victoria

For nearly 30 years, this award-winning restaurant has been serving incredible Italian cuisine in a beautiful dining room with impeccable service. If you’re looking for the best restaurant for an intimate dining experience that will make you feel like you’re in the Italian countryside, this is it! 

Q at the Empress

721 Government St, Victoria

In the heritage Victorian, Fairmont Empress Hotel, Q at the Empress is one of the best places to find Pacific Northwest Coast inspired cuisine in an elegantly modern dining room. For one of the best patios in the city, you’ll want to make a reservation on the Verandah where you can find comfortable fireside seating, warm drinks, festive treats and watch the people wander through the Inner Harbour.  

AURA Waterfront Restaurant

680 Montreal St, Victoria

On the edge of James Bay is by far one of the best restaurants to find incredible food and waterfront views. With inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine made with fresh, local veggies and ingredients, incredible lunch brunch and dinner menus including a kids menus and a special tasting menu for large groups AURA is a must for when you’re visiting Victoria! 

Casual Eats

Little Jumbo Restaurant

Down the Hall, 506 Fort St #102, Victoria

Located in heritage downtown Victoria, this funky restaurant & bar with a speakeasy vibe, incredible craft cocktails and a delicious menu is a must! With edgy decor, and great music, this packed little place is perfect for a night out on the town! 

Red Fish Blue Fish

1006 Wharf St, Victoria

From fish and chip combos made with top quality halibut and wild salmon to comforting chowder and deliciously messy fish tacos, tostadas and sandwiches Red Fish Blue Fish offers some of the best, Ocean-wise seafood in the city! It’s really the perfect place to grab a bite while you’re exploring Victoria! 

Pagliacci’s

1011 Broad St, Victoria

If you’re looking for a fantastic spot for casual Italian food that is a long-time local favourite, Pagliacci’s is it! Whether you’re looking for a great lunch, brunch or happy hour, Pag’s has it! 

Ferris’ Oyster Bar & Grill

536 Yates St, Victoria

Ferris’ has been serving up dependably excellent food since it opened its doors in 1991. From fresh or baked oysters to pasta and tantalizing burgers Ferris’ is a local favourite for good reason. In recent years Ferris’ expanded their upstairs space to include the aptly named Ferris’ Upstairs where diners can come for something more upscale and intimate and Perro Negro for absurdly delightful cocktails and tapas. 

The Tapa Bar

620 Trounce Alley, Victoria

Right in the heart of downtown Victoria, nestled in the middle of Trounce Alley, you’ll find The Tapa Bar. This cozy, bustling restaurant offers excellent craft beer and wine and is home to tantalizing tapas, celebrating the popular Mediterranean small plates style of eating. If you’re waiting for a table, you can find a seat at Bodega, the wine bar next door to enjoy light snacks, cocktails and incredible wines while you wait! 

Nubo Japanese Tapas

739 Pandora Ave, Victoria 

What better way to celebrate the oceanic cornucopia of Victoria than by eating at Nubo Japanese Tapas? This is one of the most lauded Asian restaurants in Victoria whose menu is inspired by both culinary techniques and flavours all over the world and Izakaya dining. If you’re looking for incredible sushi, noodle dishes, appetizers, ramen and so much more, Nubo is sure to impress even the most discerning diners. 

Brunch

The Blue Fox Café

919 Fort St, Victoria

If you’re more of a breakfast person, have no fear, Victoria is also home to some formidable breakfast spots. The Blue Fox Café is one of the most popular local spots in Victoria and with a wide selection of breakfast favourites and eggs benedict to die for, it’s no wonder! On a weekend morning, lineups can stretch down the street so you’ll want to get up early for this gem! 

Jam Café

542 Herald St, Victoria

With great Southern US-inspired dishes like Banana Split French Toast and Fried Chicken Benny plus a cheerful, rustic ambience, this Victoria brunch hotspot is a must-try! Jam is on the small side, so if you’re planning a weekend visit, make sure you plan ahead and arrive a little early to snag a table. 

Nourish Kitchen and Café

225 Quebec St, Victoria

If you feel like starting the day with a totally healthy, wholesome breakfast, look no farther than Nourish Kitchen and Café! Located in a heritage house dating back to the late 1800s, this delightful little cafe showcases seasonal ingredients and lovingly prepares every dish with holistic nutritional philosophies and techniques in mind.

Victoria has lots to offer visitors and our food scene is definitely one of them. So this trip, skip the tourist spots and head to where the locals eat – you won’t be disappointed!

Book a Victoria rental today!

Cycle, Hike or Ski into the New Year! Winter Adventures on Vancouver Island

Happy New Year! With the holidays behind you and the new year ahead, what better time to shake off that holiday excess with some incredible winter activities on Vancouver Island? The best thing about winter on the island? We’re not known for our long white winters and that means that it is a perfect place to indulge in many outdoor adventures all year-round. Hike or cycle one of the many incredible trails that wind all across the island. For the experienced surfers, you can find excellent surfing nearby, especially in the winter. And if you are looking for a winter wonderland, you can head north to one of the top Alpine Resorts in Canada. We really do have it all. 

Vancouver Island is world renowned for its incredible, natural beauty and with so many trails all over the island, it’s easy for everyone to get out there, no matter your skill level. No matter what level of cyclist you are, you won’t be disappointed with a ride along the Galloping Goose Trail or the ‘Goose’ as locals call it. This 55 kilometer, excellently maintained, popular trail begins downtown Victoria and winds its way west through Metchosin, Sooke and then heads north to end at the top of Sea to Sea Regional Park. While you won’t be able to do the entire trail in one day, it’s so long you can quickly access this trail no matter if you’re staying at Victoria at Reef Executive Condo or Metchosin at Arbutus Hill or Sooke at Pacific Coast Beach House and Suite and experience different parts of this incredible trail. Just north of Victoria and for anyone staying at Heron’s Landing, the Lochside Trail is a picturesque, multi-use trail that stretches from the tip of the peninsula at Swartz Bay and connects to the Galloping Goose in downtown Victoria. On this trail you can experience the Saanich peninsula’s beaches, agriculture, wetlands and rural neighbourhoods. From urban to rural to wilderness, if you’re looking for a great way to experience the natural beauty of the West Coast on a bike, there’s no better way to do it than from either the Goose or Lochside. Adventurers take note! If you’re cycling in the winter, you’ll want to make sure that you have appropriate gear – find out how to prepare for a winter cycle on the West Coast here. 

If you’d prefer to explore on two feet rather than two wheels, both the Galloping Goose and Lochside are good options as they both provide hikers with easily accessible, well maintained trails. But for those of you looking to get a little off the beaten track, there are lots of trails just north of Victoria, right nearby the Nature’s Gate Executive Home that are sure to impress.The Cowichan Valley Trans Canada Trail is a whopping 132 kilometers of well-packed gravel that is easy to ride, walk or jog along. Mostly following old CN rail lines, this section of the Trans Canada Trail winds through BC’s lush temperate rainforest that is home to some of the world’s tallest trees. You can find more information about the trail including maps and trail closures here and if you need information about the trail sections, parking and rest-stops you can find all that here. Just a 5 minute drive from the Malahat Mountain House is Spectacle Lake, a perfect fit for those looking for a more easy-going hike and for anyone who loves to fish. This trail is flat, well maintained and loops around the beautiful lake with plenty of places to stop and drop a line. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better hike than the popular Cobble Hill Mountain. Just a beautiful 10 minute drive from Cowichan Bay Oceanfront Estate, Cobble HIll Mountain is made up of 26 kilometers of well maintained, signed trails ranging in difficulty so finding the right trail for you is easy. The trails will lead you through multiple ecosystems and breathtaking views of the Cowichan Valley. Come find out how the locals stay in shape! 

You don’t have to fly to Hawaii or Australia to get in some great winter surfing – although it will be a little colder! If you’re an experienced surfer and are ready to brave the icy waters, you can catch some excellent waves right here on Vancouver Island. Tofino and Uculet are surfing hotspots but you might be surprised to hear that south Vancouver Island has some killer waves too! Only 30 minutes from Pacific Coast Beach House, 45 from Station Villa Executive Condo and an hour from Arbutus Hill is Vancouver Island’s hidden surfing gem, Jordan River. This tiny little community on the edge of the Pacific Ocean offers up some incredible views and even more incredible surfing. Just a little farther north is Sombrio Beach. Sombrio has great surfing at any tide level and offers a beach and reef break, which provides more consistent waves than Jordan River. With waves that can range from 2ft to 10ft, unpredictable conditions, freezing water and Pacific Ocean currents, neither Jordan River nor Sombrio are good spots for a novice. For those of you who feel at home on the waves, keep a close eye on the surf conditions here and here and don’t forget to grab your booties, gloves and hood – you’re going to need them!  

We may not be known for our white winters but when we do get the occasional snowfall, Victorians really take advantage of it in one of the best ways – sledding! So when the snow starts to stick, Victoria is a great place for the young and young-at-heart to bundle up and head to the nearest slope. Not far from Dalmeny Farm Estate, the famous Beacon Hill Park has acres of meandering groves of oak trees, ponds, gardens, moss covered boulders and one of the top sledding hills in Victoria! What could be better than a beautiful, snowy walk through the park and an afternoon of sledding? Just a short drive from Barkley Manor Executive you’ll find the Cedar Hill Golf Course which is another very safe, easygoing, fun hill to go sledding. Because it’s a golf course, you’ll find the area excellently manicured with no hidden rocks or brambles to get stuck in, plus there’s plenty of parking to make the trip that much easier. Without snow, Mount Tolmie is known for its steep, rocky incline but with a thick blanket of snow, it’s an ideal place to go for those looking for a more thrilling sledding experience but there are some gentler options for younger ones that may go with you. If you’re staying at EMR (Oak Bay/Rockland/Uplands), the Victoria Golf Club is a great spot for a sledding adventure! Like Cedar Hill, Victoria Golf Club is a manicured slope that means it’s super safe for all ages. Afterwards, you can stroll through historic Oak Bay village and check out the local shops and grab some cocoa in a perfect wintry village. If you’re really desperate for a proper snowy adventure, don’t despair! Mt Washington Alpine Resort has everything you could want from an alpine resort, great skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and sledding. If you’re coming from Victoria, you’re looking at a 3.5 hour drive to get there but if you’re staying at Kye Bay Winter Beach House, you’re only a 40 minutes from a winter wonderland! 

No matter what you’re into, biking, hiking, surfing or snow, Vancouver Island has the perfect adventure just for you! 

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas! Great In-Person and Online Holiday Events Around Victoria

The holidays are a magical time of year – a time where life is filled with gifts for loved ones, heartfelt cards, great food, music and classic Christmas performances. There’s nothing like bundling up for a day of shopping for great local gifts then stopping to support a local charity. Get dressed up and step out into those long, bright wintry nights and go see live music or your favourite seasonal production. Or stay in your comfiest clothes, slip on some fuzzy slippers, mix your favourite potable and enjoy your holiday favourites in comfort. From contemporary holiday music to the Nutcracker, charity events to holiday markets, south Vancouver Island has something for everyone to get a dose of Christmas cheer.

This year, everyone’s holiday season is going to look a little different but for those of you who are at the Manor Suite Off Rockland or staying at the Beacon Hill View Condo and love getting out there to explore, there are still lots of in-person events happening around the city!  Have you ever dreamt of travelling in time to see what Christmas was like in yesteryear? Well now you can! Visitors to The Royal BC Museum will be able wander through cobbled streets of Old Town dressed to the nines in holiday cheer and peek into the elaborate and meticulously laid out rooms, listen to the sounds of hooves on the pavement and catch a Charlie Chaplain short in the mini theater. If you’re looking for somewhere to really soak up the spirit of the season and get a few gifts checked off your list, the Bastion Square Christmas Market is a must visit. Experience the feeling of a small town market with tons of local artisans in BC’s beautiful capital city. It’s a great place to snag thoughtful, one-of-a-kind pieces for everyone on your list. Just a short trip north of Victoria and near to Heron View Cottage is one of Canada’s most celebrated country music performers will be serenading the audience with all of holiday standards! So if you’re looking to head out for some live music, you’ll be hard pressed to find anything better to get into the holiday spirit than George Canyon’s Acoustic Christmas at the Mary Winspear Center in Sidney BC. 

Most years, there are so many holiday events happening and not nearly enough time to get to all of them. One of the benefits of this unprecedented time is that so many organizers have taken their events online which means that you can ‘attend’ as many as you want without having to take off your slippers! This year, the 12th Annual Gingerbread Showcase is online and in person! This year’s theme, “Coastal Living” has been interpreted by thirty-three talented bakers who have each created unique and incredible displays. Browse their masterpieces, read about the process and donate to help Habitat for Humanity raise funds to build affordable housing in North Saanich. You can also download a map of where these confectionery creations are being displayed in Victoria and Sidney and go see them from outside. If you’re staying at either Dalmeny Farm Estate it’s a great way to explore the area! There have been so many versions of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol it can be difficult to choose a favourite! This year if you’re in the mood for something a little outside of the box then be sure to buy tickets to the Blue Bridge Theater’s, online, one-man version starring Sanjay Talwar. It’s a great way to spend an evening at Nature’s Gate Executive Vacation Home. This reimagining is sure to delight kids of all ages! If something traditional is more to your taste, then you won’t want to miss the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Ballet. The cameras will take you backstage to hear from the artists, designers and creators of this production to see how the magic is made. You can experience the holiday classic in a whole new light with this ground-breaking debut right from the comfort of Oceanside Lodge On Saanich Inlet! Hermann’s Jazz Club has been a staple in Victoria’s art and music scene for 40 years and has always had an incredible line-up of live music – this year is no different. Hermann’s has moved all of their performances to livestreams which means that you can enjoy the incredible talents that grace the stage without having to make the trip. Curl up on the couch and livestream Charlie Brown Christmas: Music From the Network Television Special or make a festive feast in the gorgeous kitchen at one of our oceanfront properties and watch Christmas with the Maureen Washington Quartet. If you love a good holiday spectacle, then you certainly don’t want to miss Leisa Way and the Wayward Wind Band’s Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree. With glitzy costumes and incredible energy, this band is sure to get even the biggest Scrooges rockin’ around right alongside them!

No matter how different the holidays are this year, or where you’re celebrating from, there are still lots of ways to make your Christmas merry and bright with these holiday events.  

Great In-Person and Online Holiday Events Around Victoria

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The holidays are a magical time of year – a time where life is filled with gifts for loved ones, heartfelt cards, great food, music and classic Christmas performances. There’s nothing like bundling up for a day of shopping for great local gifts then stopping to support a local charity. Get dressed up and step out into those long, bright wintry nights and go see live music or your favourite seasonal production. Or stay in your comfiest clothes, slip on some fuzzy slippers, mix your favourite potable and enjoy your holiday favourites in comfort. From contemporary holiday music to the Nutcracker, charity events to holiday markets, holiday events in Victoria have something for everyone to get a dose of Christmas cheer!

This year, everyone’s holiday season is going to look a little different but for those of you who are at the Manor Suite Off Rockland or staying at the Beacon Hill View Condo and love getting out there to explore, there are still lots of in-person events happening around the city!  Have you ever dreamt of travelling in time to see what Christmas was like in yesteryear? Well now you can! Visitors to The Royal BC Museum will be able wander through cobbled streets of Old Town dressed to the nines in holiday cheer and peek into the elaborate and meticulously laid out rooms, listen to the sounds of hooves on the pavement and catch a Charlie Chaplain short in the mini theater. If you’re looking for somewhere to really soak up the spirit of the season and get a few gifts checked off your list, the Bastion Square Christmas Market is a must visit. Experience the feeling of a small town market with tons of local artisans in BC’s beautiful capital city. It’s a great place to snag thoughtful, one-of-a-kind pieces for everyone on your list. Just a short trip north of Victoria and near to Heron View Cottage is one of Canada’s most celebrated country music performers will be serenading the audience with all of holiday standards! So if you’re looking to head out for some live music, you’ll be hard pressed to find anything better to get into the holiday spirit than George Canyon’s Acoustic Christmas at the Mary Winspear Center in Sidney BC. 

Most years, there are so many holiday events happening and not nearly enough time to get to all of them. One of the benefits of this unprecedented time is that so many organizers have taken their events online which means that you can ‘attend’ as many as you want without having to take off your slippers! This year, the 12th Annual Gingerbread Showcase is online and in person! This year’s theme, “Coastal Living” has been interpreted by thirty-three talented bakers who have each created unique and incredible displays. Browse their masterpieces, read about the process and donate to help Habitat for Humanity raise funds to build affordable housing in North Saanich. You can also download a map of where these confectionery creations are being displayed in Victoria and Sidney and go see them from outside. If you’re staying at either Dalmeny Farm Estate it’s a great way to explore the area! There have been so many versions of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol it can be difficult to choose a favourite! This year if you’re in the mood for something a little outside of the box then be sure to buy tickets to the Blue Bridge Theater’s, online, one-man version starring Sanjay Talwar. It’s a great way to spend an evening at Nature’s Gate Executive Vacation Home. This reimagining is sure to delight kids of all ages! If something traditional is more to your taste, then you won’t want to miss the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Ballet. The cameras will take you backstage to hear from the artists, designers and creators of this production to see how the magic is made. You can experience the holiday classic in a whole new light with this ground-breaking debut right from the comfort of Oceanside Lodge On Saanich Inlet! Hermann’s Jazz Club has been a staple in Victoria’s art and music scene for 40 years and has always had an incredible line-up of live music – this year is no different. Hermann’s has moved all of their performances to livestreams which means that you can enjoy the incredible talents that grace the stage without having to make the trip. Curl up on the couch and livestream Charlie Brown Christmas: Music From the Network Television Special or make a festive feast in the gorgeous kitchen at one of our oceanfront properties and watch Christmas with the Maureen Washington Quartet. If you love a good holiday spectacle, then you certainly don’t want to miss Leisa Way and the Wayward Wind Band’s Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree. With glitzy costumes and incredible energy, this band is sure to get even the biggest Scrooges rockin’ around right alongside them!

No matter how different the holidays are this year, or where you’re celebrating from, there are still lots of ways to make your Christmas merry and bright with these holiday events.  

Lights Up! Where to find the Best Christmas Lights Around Victoria

Aaaah, the holidays. It’s the time of year that conjures up Rockwellian images of large family gatherings, magical snowmen, copious amounts of hot chocolate, decadent food, the big guy in red and white and endless strings of Christmas lights that twinkle through the long wintry nights. This year, in Victoria, British Columbia, the Christmas season kicks off with some exceptional light festivals and displays around the capital city. So, bundle up, grab a cocoa to go, and hop in the car, if you traveled by air, grab a rental car and check out how Victoria is lighting up the magic of the holidays. 

The Butchart Gardens

December 1st – January 6th

The Butchart Gardens is the undisputed master of Christmas light displays on Vancouver Island. Whether you’re staying in Victoria or one of the beautiful EMR properties in Saanich this little slice of holiday paradise is worth seeing! The Magic of Christmas is the annual Christmas light festival where visitors can wander through the gardens completely aglow, see the Twelve Days of Christmas display, enjoy some live entertainment, and do some traditional ice skating on the outdoor ice rink and stop by the coffee shop for a hot cocoa and gingerbread! 

The Festival of Trees

November 17th – January 3rd, The Bay Center 

Whether you’re staying right in downtown Victoria or if you’re enjoying the peace and quiet of winter at a stunning Cowichan Valley property, you’ll want to do a little bit of Christmas shopping at The Bay Center in downtown Victoria. Not only does The Bay Center offer a myriad of stores from national and global chains to local boutiques and fun kiosks but during this time of year, the mall is filled with holiday magic. The high ceilings drip with twinkling lights, bannisters are decked with garlands and ribbons and the mall is filled with Christmas trees! Each tree is sponsored and decorated by a local business or organization and put on display in the mall. Shoppers vote for their favourite tree and make a small donation to help raise money for the BC Children’s Hospital!  

Lights of Wonder 

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from December 15th – 31st, Centennial Square 

If you’re looking for a way to get into the Christmas spirit just a walk away from one of the cozy condos in downtown Victoria, this is it! From December 15th to the 30th, Centennial Square will be a veritable winter wonderland with themed holiday lights, including four light tunnels, a 40ft Christmas tree, food vendors and live entertainment! 

The Inner Harbour

During the holidays there is no better, more Christmassy place to go than the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria. Whether you’re staying in a rental right in the heart of downtown or if you’re making the trip into town from Sooke, the Cowichan Valley or Sidney a walk through the Inner Harbour to see the Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress and up Government Street all lit up with thousands of twinkle lights is a must!  

Santa Claus Parade

November 26th at 5:00 starting at Belleville and Government St. and ending at 251 Esquimalt Rd

The beloved Santa Claus Parade is back! This year, IEOA truck convoy and Esquimalt Light Parade are working together to light up the city with a long line of cars and trucks all decked out with holiday lights, Christmas music and the big guy himself, this parade is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season! The parade route has been extended by a few blocks for 2022 to allow more space between spectators and masks are recommended but not mandatory. Bring a non-perishable food item with you for the food back and meet up at the end of the route to see the holiday plaza, get pictures with Santa, enjoy live entertainment, great food, and warm drinks! 

Neighbourhood Displays

One of the easiest ways to get into the holiday spirit is to take yourself on a Christmas lights tour, checking out all the amazing neighbourhood Christmas displays! These homes go to great lengths to set up their elaborate light displays and they’re a must see during the holiday season. Not sure where to start? Here’s a list of homes that have put on incredible displays every year plus the Times Colonist publishes an interactive Christmas lights map each year to show you exactly where to go to see the incredible displays of lights around Greater Victoria! 

Royal Oak 

610 Vanalman Ave 

629 Vanalman Ave

  

Gordon Head and UVIC area 

4360 Torquay Drive

1827 Dunnett Crescent 

3943 Emerald Close 

Oaklands 

1311 Hillside Ave

2820 Grosvenor Rd 

1888 Townley St

Fairfield/Oak Bay area

615 Linden Ave 

1888 Townley St

Book a holiday rental and enjoy Victoria at Christmas!

It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Holiday Shopping! Best Local Shops on the Peninsula

Whether you prefer turquoise waters where cold drinks melt in your hand, icy peaks where you feel like you’re on top of the world or invigorating coastlines that make you want to curl up next to a crackling fire, travelling during the holiday season is magical. So is wrapping up the gifts you’ve found while you’re away to fill stockings or place under the tree. It’s these mementos – from the tacky fridge magnet that made you laugh to that rare treasure, watching friends and family enjoy the gifts you’ve brought them from your adventures is wonderful. South Vancouver Island has some incredible shopping where you can find everything from the truly outrageous to incredibly meaningful – you’ll find something for everyone on your holiday list, including you.

At the top of the Saanich Peninsula, you’ll find the little town of Sidney. If you’re staying at either the stunning Oceanside Lodge or Pendray House, you’ll be thrilled to find that a short drive will take you to Sidney town center: an easily walkable and an excellent place to find great holiday gifts. Cameron Rose is basically a one-stop-shop for everything you’re searching for. While Cameron Rose isn’t a large store, it carries everything from clothing and jewellery to games, puzzles and toys to novelty napkins and magnets. This is a great place to go if you’re pressed for time and you need unique, travel-friendly gifts. If you are looking for amazing gifts for the ladies on your list, Miss Bliss Boutique is an excellent option. This little store prides itself on personalized service and high quality women’s clothing and accessories – you’ll find your holiday ‘wow’ here. There are few better places on the Peninsula to find an excellent selection of books than Tanner’s Books. This little bookstore is a fixture in the community for good reason – besides the selection, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better, more helpful staff of literary experts than at Tanner’s. If you’re looking for something a little different, Galleon Books & Antiques specializes in non-fiction books and has a plethora of antiques and collectables to peruse – it’s a great store to stop into even if you’re with a non-shopper. Last, but certainly not least is Snowden House Gourmet & Gifts Ltd. A lovely little farm just west of Sidney town center, Snowden House will have the perfect gift for any gourmand. With small batch vinegars, pre-mixed bread kits, dips, rubs, herbs and spices as well as cards, locally crafted vessels and more – you won’t be disappointed!

A quick trip south of Sidney and close to bothDalmeny Farm Estate is one of the longest running markets in the Victoria region, the Peninsula Country Market. Located at the Saanich Fairgrounds, this market hosts vendors that “make, bake or grow” everything they sell. It is a great place for anyone who really wants to immerse themselves in the community and find some amazing gifts even in the winter – check when the market is running while you’re visiting here. For those who love to rummage through eclectic shops, The Old Attic should be your next stop. Part retro, part vintage, part antique, this store has nothing but top quality collectables and one-of-a-kind pieces for the one-of-a-kind people in your life. Way out there in left field is Quarky Science, an absolute must for all the professional and amateur scientists on your holiday list. You can find something for every scientific discipline here from small 3D bug specimens and brass magnifying glass sets to prepared microscope slides and telescopes.

Only a half an hour drive from the top of the Peninsula is Victoria, one of the most visited cities in the world, for good reason. Between the breathtaking beauty of the Juan De Fuca and the preponderance of perfectly maintained historical buildings, this incredibly vibrant, heritage city on the tip of Vancouver Island is the perfect blend of natural and architectural beauty. There are a few stops that you won’t want to miss and if you’re staying at either EMR properties, Arbutus Hill or Nature’s Gate Executive Vacation Home, these gems will not be far from your doorstep. At the top of the list is Murchie’s Fine Tea and Coffee flagship store located in the heritage Murchie’s building on Government street, right in the heart of Victoria. Since 1894, Murchie’s has been blending perfectly balanced teas, providing Victorians and visitors alike with unique and exceptional products. The soaring ceilings and rich, dark wood shelves inlaid with stained glass that line each wall, showcase the art deco era of the building and give patrons an experience from another time. But it’s not just the beauty of the building that draws people from all over the world – in the tea room you can find an extensive food menu and decadent treats to nibble while the adjoining gift shop carries a myriad of different tea sampler boxes, tea cups, mugs, tea towels and so much more. If you’d prefer to seek out small, local businesses and artisans, then give the mall a miss and head to Lower Johnson or “LoJo” as the locals call it, where you’ll find every kind of gift you could possibly want. From genuine, First Nations artisan ware to smart eco-friendly toys, to luxurious clothes to fun gadgets and knickknacks, Lower Johnson has it all. While you’re checking out LoJo, make sure you visit Market Square. The historic, Italianate building was built in the late 1800’s and is the cornerstone of Victoria’s Old Town. Today it’s home to dozens of locally owned businesses where you can find one-of-a-kind merchandise, dine-in and take-out restaurants and an open-air square that is a venue for art installations, performances and fairs.

With so much choice for holiday shopping, make sure you visit and support local businesses where you are sure to find unique, thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list.

Best Christmas Shopping Near Sidney, BC

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Whether you prefer turquoise waters where cold drinks melt in your hand, icy peaks where you feel like you’re on top of the world or invigorating coastlines that make you want to curl up next to a crackling fire, travelling during the holiday season is magical! So is wrapping up the gifts you’ve found while you’re away to fill stockings or place under the tree. It’s these mementos – from the tacky fridge magnet that made you laugh to that rare treasure, watching friends and family enjoy the gifts you’ve brought them from your adventures is wonderful. Christmas shopping in Sidney BC is incredible and you can find everything from the truly outrageous to incredibly meaningful – you’ll find something for everyone on your holiday list, including you!

At the top of the Saanich Peninsula, you’ll find the little town of Sidney. If you’re staying at either the stunning Oceanside Lodge or Pendray House, you’ll be thrilled to find that a short drive will take you to Sidney town center: an easily walkable and an excellent place to find great holiday gifts. Cameron Rose is basically a one-stop-shop for everything you’re searching for. While Cameron Rose isn’t a large store, it carries everything from clothing and jewellery to games, puzzles and toys to novelty napkins and magnets. This is a great place to go if you’re pressed for time and you need unique, travel-friendly gifts. If you are looking for amazing gifts for the ladies on your list, Miss Bliss Boutique is an excellent option. This little store prides itself on personalized service and high quality women’s clothing and accessories – you’ll find your holiday ‘wow’ here. There are few better places on the Peninsula to find an excellent selection of books than Tanner’s Books. This little bookstore is a fixture in the community for good reason – besides the selection, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better, more helpful staff of literary experts than at Tanner’s. If you’re looking for something a little different, Galleon Books & Antiques specializes in non-fiction books and has a plethora of antiques and collectables to peruse – it’s a great store to stop into even if you’re with a non-shopper. Last, but certainly not least is Snowden House Gourmet & Gifts Ltd. A lovely little farm just west of Sidney town center, Snowden House will have the perfect gift for any gourmand. With small batch vinegars, pre-mixed bread kits, dips, rubs, herbs and spices as well as cards, locally crafted vessels and more – you won’t be disappointed!

A quick trip south of Sidney and close to bothDalmeny Farm Estate is one of the longest running markets in the Victoria region, the Peninsula Country Market. Located at the Saanich Fairgrounds, this market hosts vendors that “make, bake or grow” everything they sell. It is a great place for anyone who really wants to immerse themselves in the community and find some amazing gifts even in the winter – check when the market is running while you’re visiting here. For those who love to rummage through eclectic shops, The Old Attic should be your next stop. Part retro, part vintage, part antique, this store has nothing but top quality collectables and one-of-a-kind pieces for the one-of-a-kind people in your life. Way out there in left field is Quarky Science, an absolute must for all the professional and amateur scientists on your holiday list. You can find something for every scientific discipline here from small 3D bug specimens and brass magnifying glass sets to prepared microscope slides and telescopes.

Only a half an hour drive from the top of the Peninsula is Victoria, one of the most visited cities in the world, for good reason. Between the breathtaking beauty of the Juan De Fuca and the preponderance of perfectly maintained historical buildings, this incredibly vibrant, heritage city on the tip of Vancouver Island is the perfect blend of natural and architectural beauty. There are a few stops that you won’t want to miss and if you’re staying at either EMR properties, Arbutus Hill or Nature’s Gate Executive Vacation Home, these gems will not be far from your doorstep. At the top of the list is Murchie’s Fine Tea and Coffee flagship store located in the heritage Murchie’s building on Government street, right in the heart of Victoria. Since 1894, Murchie’s has been blending perfectly balanced teas, providing Victorians and visitors alike with unique and exceptional products. The soaring ceilings and rich, dark wood shelves inlaid with stained glass that line each wall, showcase the art deco era of the building and give patrons an experience from another time. But it’s not just the beauty of the building that draws people from all over the world – in the tea room you can find an extensive food menu and decadent treats to nibble while the adjoining gift shop carries a myriad of different tea sampler boxes, tea cups, mugs, tea towels and so much more. If you’d prefer to seek out small, local businesses and artisans, then give the mall a miss and head to Lower Johnson or “LoJo” as the locals call it, where you’ll find every kind of gift you could possibly want. From genuine, First Nations artisan ware to smart eco-friendly toys, to luxurious clothes to fun gadgets and knickknacks, Lower Johnson has it all. While you’re checking out LoJo, make sure you visit Market Square. The historic, Italianate building was built in the late 1800’s and is the cornerstone of Victoria’s Old Town. Today it’s home to dozens of locally owned businesses where you can find one-of-a-kind merchandise, dine-in and take-out restaurants and an open-air square that is a venue for art installations, performances and fairs.

With so much choice for holiday shopping, make sure you visit and support local businesses where you are sure to find unique, thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list.

The Perfect Cup!

The Best Little Café’s in Sidney, BC

There are few better ways to get to know a neighbourhood than by popping into a local café. From tiny, hole-in-the-wall places to large, bustling coffee boutiques, you can immerse yourself in the daily life of the community by stopping in and grabbing your favourite beverage. In Sidney BC, where the sea meets the sky, this incredibly quaint, walkable town is no exception.

Just north of Sidney town center, there is the little Lone Tree Bakery perched on the edge of the beautiful Van Isle Marina and is steps away from both EMR Sidney BC Properties. Stop in to grab a great cup of coffee and a freshly baked treat to-go and explore the marina. Or if you’re seeking some serious post-hike sustenance, order one of their famous “mile-high” sandwiches. It’s no wonder this little, unassuming café is considered the hub of this little community. A quick drive inland from the Patricia Bay Beach House, is The Fickle Fig, a rustic, farm market and bistro where farm-to-table isn’t a fad, it’s a way of life. Stop by for a relaxing latte and a decadent dessert, enjoy a hearty daily pasta or pizzette made with fresh, farm-grown veggies or grab a rich americano and browse the market for some of their fruits and veggies to take with you. With ample indoor seating in the bright, barn-style café and outdoor umbrella tables set among the garden, this charming café is sure to exceed expectations.

No matter where you’re staying, Sidney’s beautiful town center is perfect for exploring with ample parking, a huge seafront walkway and some truly incredible café experiences. 10 Acres Café and Market is an upscale but comfortable spot that offers a farm-to-table fare with a simple but refined food menu and some excellent coffee. Located just steps from the water’s edge, it’s a popular spot for locals and a must for visitors whether you’re grabbing something to go or settling in to sip while enjoying the view. Just on the other side of the roundabout, is the charming Quince Café and Ice Cream. While this bright little café seems unassuming, their entire menu is made fresh, in-house, daily. Its’ a wonderful little spot for a hot soup and panini on a drizzly day or a buttery scone and a perfectly pressed Lavazza at a sunny window. This hard working, little café even churns out some downright delicious ice cream. Right next door is the Beacon Café and once you’ve been, you’ll understand why it is a fixture of community. This bright, corner café offers comfortable seating, mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus, and tons of to-go options. With lots of window tables and seasonal outdoor seating, it’s a perfect place to mix with the locals, people watch and enjoy some delicious, local fare. Stroll a little farther along Beacon Avenue and you’ll come to the relaxed, funky Red Brick Café. Whether you’re looking for a meal or a snack, this cozy spot offers some good honest food and coffee at great prices. Continue strolling up Beacon Avenue and you’ll come to a little cottage-style building set back from the sidewalk, home to Alexander’s Coffee Bar. This tiny little café doesn’t have a big menu or lots of seats – but what it lacks in variety and size, it more than makes up for in quality. It’s a perfect spot to pop in for a delicious, fresh pastry and coffee (the cream-cheese cinnamon rolls are delightful). Plus, while you’re waiting for your coffee you can peruse their small selection of specialty beverages and mugs. Enjoy an incredible coffee and pastry while you cross some souvenirs off your list ­– two birds, one stone! Just off the main avenue, you’ll find a great spot for anyone looking for quick, quality food and coffee on-the-go. La Pignatta is a bright, counter-serve café that offers a solid variety of in-house made soups, sandwiches and pastries, locally roasted Oughtred Coffee and organic teas. Just serve yourself and enjoy! Before you say goodbye to this beautiful town center, make sure you head over to the historic, Sidney Bakery. This community staple has been baking sweet and savoury breads and buns for over one hundred years! Stop in for some incredible, fresh baked treats, find a bench and watch the waves while you enjoy some of the local confectionary, alfresco.

Although it’s a small town at the top of the peninsula, Sidney is a wonderful place to visit year-round and touring the local café’s is a perfect way to get to know this unique, friendly community by the sea. 

The Perfect Cup! The Best Coffee in Sidney, BC

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There are few better ways to get to know a neighbourhood than by popping into a local café. From tiny, hole-in-the-wall places to large, bustling coffee boutiques, you can immerse yourself in the daily life of the community by stopping in and grabbing your favourite beverage. When it comes to coffee in Sidney BC, where the sea meets the sky, this incredibly quaint, walkable town is no exception!

Just north of Sidney town center, there is the little Lone Tree Bakery perched on the edge of the beautiful Van Isle Marina and is steps away from both EMR Sidney BC Properties. Stop in to grab a great cup of coffee and a freshly baked treat to-go and explore the marina. Or if you’re seeking some serious post-hike sustenance, order one of their famous “mile-high” sandwiches. It’s no wonder this little, unassuming café is considered the hub of this little community. A quick drive inland from the Patricia Bay Beach House, is The Fickle Fig, a rustic, farm market and bistro where farm-to-table isn’t a fad, it’s a way of life. Stop by for a relaxing latte and a decadent dessert, enjoy a hearty daily pasta or pizzette made with fresh, farm-grown veggies or grab a rich americano and browse the market for some of their fruits and veggies to take with you. With ample indoor seating in the bright, barn-style café and outdoor umbrella tables set among the garden, this charming café is sure to exceed expectations.

No matter where you’re staying, Sidney’s beautiful town center is perfect for exploring with ample parking, a huge seafront walkway and some truly incredible café experiences. 10 Acres Café and Market is an upscale but comfortable spot that offers a farm-to-table fare with a simple but refined food menu and some excellent coffee. Located just steps from the water’s edge, it’s a popular spot for locals and a must for visitors whether you’re grabbing something to go or settling in to sip while enjoying the view. Just on the other side of the roundabout, is the charming Quince Café and Ice Cream. While this bright little café seems unassuming, their entire menu is made fresh, in-house, daily. Its’ a wonderful little spot for a hot soup and panini on a drizzly day or a buttery scone and a perfectly pressed Lavazza at a sunny window. This hard working, little café even churns out some downright delicious ice cream. Right next door is the Beacon Café and once you’ve been, you’ll understand why it is a fixture of community. This bright, corner café offers comfortable seating, mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus, and tons of to-go options. With lots of window tables and seasonal outdoor seating, it’s a perfect place to mix with the locals, people watch and enjoy some delicious, local fare. Stroll a little farther along Beacon Avenue and you’ll come to the relaxed, funky Red Brick Café. Whether you’re looking for a meal or a snack, this cozy spot offers some good honest food and coffee at great prices. Continue strolling up Beacon Avenue and you’ll come to a little cottage-style building set back from the sidewalk, home to Alexander’s Coffee Bar. This tiny little café doesn’t have a big menu or lots of seats – but what it lacks in variety and size, it more than makes up for in quality. It’s a perfect spot to pop in for a delicious, fresh pastry and coffee (the cream-cheese cinnamon rolls are delightful). Plus, while you’re waiting for your coffee you can peruse their small selection of specialty beverages and mugs. Enjoy an incredible coffee and pastry while you cross some souvenirs off your list ­– two birds, one stone! Just off the main avenue, you’ll find a great spot for anyone looking for quick, quality food and coffee on-the-go. La Pignatta is a bright, counter-serve café that offers a solid variety of in-house made soups, sandwiches and pastries, locally roasted Oughtred Coffee and organic teas. Just serve yourself and enjoy! Before you say goodbye to this beautiful town center, make sure you head over to the historic, Sidney Bakery. This community staple has been baking sweet and savoury breads and buns for over one hundred years! Stop in for some incredible, fresh baked treats, find a bench and watch the waves while you enjoy some of the local confectionary, alfresco.

Although it’s a small town at the top of the peninsula, Sidney is a wonderful place to visit year-round and touring the local café’s is a perfect way to get to know this unique, friendly community by the sea. 

Fall Activities and Virtual Events in the Northwest

Known for its stunning landscapes and fun outdoor adventures, the Pacific Northwest is at its best during the fall. The weather is cool, the foliage is fantastic, and the summer crowds are gone, making autumn the perfect time to get out and explore this pacific paradise. From fall fun events to seasonal outdoor tours, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the autumn season across the area. Here are the best fall activities and virtual events in the Pacific Northwest!

Leavenworth

Like any self-respecting German town, Leavenworth celebrates the autumn season with good food and better beer. During the fall, head to the Leavenworth Community Farmers Market any Thursday from 4-7 to browse vendors full of locally-grown produce, arts and crafts, local brews, and more. Best of all, it’s just minutes from Bavarian Mountain Suite, your lavish downtown condo rental!

Whistler

Fall is a great time to visit Whistler for several reasons. One of the best is the chance to view the area’s famous black bears and cubs in their natural habitat on a guided Bear Viewing Tour! Explore the wilderness and get up close and personal with the resident bears as they forage for the winter season – from the safety of a rugged 4X4 vehicle, of course! You’ll be just steps from the Olympic Plaza in our Tyndall Stone #206, a private downtown condo with sweeping views of Rainbow Mountain.

Victoria

There’s no better time to soak in Victoria’s year-round foliage than during the fall. A trip to Beacon Hill Park during autumn finds its 200 acres awash in glorious hues of yellow, orange, red, and gold. Stroll along the water beneath orange-tinged willows or find a bench to admire the park’s many Japanese Maples bursting with crimson leaves. You can even walk to the park from your Beacon Hill View Condo, a spacious and sunny rental in the heart of downtown Victoria!

Cannon Beach

While fall is hardly peak beach season, it’s a popular time to visit Cannon Beach thanks to the Stormy Weather Arts Festival. This annual event celebrates the area’s vibrant cultural scene by packing as much live music and local artists into the weekend as possible. Stroll through the charming downtown streets as you take in live demonstrations, jamming sets from local musicians, and even a fun fashion show. You’ll be just steps from the event’s Coaster Theatre Playhouse at Cozy Cottage, a charming rental boasting coastal style and ultimate convenience!

San Juan Island

During the fall, San Juan Island comes alive with fantastic foliage and plenty of fun fall events to celebrate the harvest season. To get a real taste of the island’s fall flair, stop by the San Juan Islands Museum of Art to view their seasonal exhibitions. Fall 2020’s exhibition is “SPACE, MUSES, etc.”, a curious collection of works by Samuel Stubblefield.

Virtual Events

Don’t miss these virtual events for 2020, then put the 2021 versions on your agenda to return for next year!

The Port Townsend Virtual Film Fest

Date: September 24-October 4, 2020

Cost: $120

Screening more than 100 films in over eight venues, the Port Townsend Film Fest is “a film lover’s block party celebrating great films and filmmakers.” The festival attracts industry professionals and film buffs alike, culminating in a big screen event like you’ve never seen! This year’s program is fully virtual, allowing you to scope out the best new and noteworthy films without ever leaving your jammies.

Filmmaking In The Wilderness: How To Tell Your Adventure Story

Date: September 23, 2020

Cost: $22.50

This fun workshop hosted by The Mountaineers is led by Alex Maier, an experienced documentary filmmaker and long-distance hiker. In an interactive seminar, you’ll learn practical ways to document your hiking experiences by exploring the best tools and tips in the business for adventure filming. It’s a perfect lesson for new and noted Pacific Northwest adventurers!