About Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Vancouver Island and the Victoria region are rich in history. Visiting the many museums, historic parks and landmarks can help make your time in the area more exciting and interesting. Victoria has always been a land of plenty and a place of majestic views.

The Coast Salish peoples have called Southern Vancouver Island and the area around Victoria home for almost 10 thousand years. These talented and hardy people created a vibrant existence for themselves using mainly the local massive cedar trees and the abundant salmon and plants native to this area to build their lives. Feel the rhythm of their long history with this area as you walk among totem poles and discover the artistry of their homes, canoes, masks and everyday items at the Royal British Columbia Provincial Museum, in local shops and in places like the mystical atmosphere of Thunderbird Park in downtown Victoria.

The Spanish and British began exploring the area in the late 1700’s, with Spanish sailors visiting the harbour area in the 1790’s. Fort Victoria was founded in 1843 as a fur trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company, and, in 1849, this sleepy little outpost grew to become the capital of the British Crown's Colony of Vancouver Island, in the days prior to Canadian confederation.  The Chief Factor of Fort Victoria, Sir James Douglas, was made governor of the colony, and he would be a leading figure in this area until his retirement in 1864.

The Hudson's Bay Company first established a fort in Victoria in 1843, naming the fort after the reigning British Queen, Victoria. Fort Victoria was built just above the waterfront at Fort Street, with present day Bastion Square being the parade grounds inside the fort. This historic hub of our wonderful city is also the site of the city’s first jail and provincial courthouse, which was built in 1889. Visit the Maritime Museum and see this fabulous old building where famous judge Matthew Begbie, known as ‘the Hanging Judge’ ,held court.

With the discovery of gold in 1858, Victoria became the supply base for miners on their way to the Fraser Canyon gold fields. Victoria was incorporated as a city in 1862. The Royal Navy chose the area as their western base in 1865, and it remains Canada's west coast naval base to this day. Victoria became the provincial capital for British Columbia when the province joined the Canadian Confederation in 1871.

Visitors enjoy walking the historic and architecturally interesting streets of the Victoria’s Old Town. Guided walking tours and relaxing, horse-drawn carriage rides are available to help make the most of a tour. Look at the tours available through John Adams or Danda Humphreys, two very knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides who also write extensively on the historical significance of our city's early characters and buildings. 

Victoria is proud to have the oldest Chinatown in Canada! Take a walk through Fan Tan Alley, once filled with opium dens and gambling parlours. Pause for a photo at the decorative Gate of Harmonious Interest. Chinatown is filled with interesting shops, markets and restaurants. Guided walking tours are available with John Adams or with one of Chinatown's favourite sons, Les Chan.

The Legislative Buildings for British Columbia are a highlight of a tour of Victoria’s Inner Harbour. These magnificent buildings were designed by noted architect Francis Rattenbury when he was only 25 years of age. Rattenbury went on to a number of other significant projects in the city, including the venerable Fairmont Empress Hotel. The buildings are lit up at night by over 3000 lights, a magical sight. Save time for one of the free guided tours of the Legislative Buildings. They are delightful!

Victoria remains the capital city of British Columbia, a city made up of a number of municipalities and a total population of 370 000 people. This region was recently named one of the top retirement areas in North America, chosen due to its climate, rich cultural life, diverse and fascinating environment, safety, affordability, etc. The condominium market has exploded in recent years as retirees invest and move to the city. Ask us for a referral to one of the knowledgeable realtors we have worked with in recent years!

Yes, we know this city well, and we enjoy assisting our guests as they uncover its charms. Stay with us and enjoy affordable oceanfront accommodations as you explore Victoria during a romantic getaway, vacation travel or even a short time with a business stay. Your rest is assured with Dashwood Manor, a member of BC Innkeepers Guild, Victoria's Finest B&Bs, Best B&Bs of Victoria and founding member of Victoria's Historic Inns. Proudly a Canada Select 4 Star property.