DIVERSIONS

Walk, hike, sleep, fish, dive, golf, kayak, explore, cycle, sail, read, shop, escape… enjoy some ‘island time’.

Diversions are a necessity in today's fast-paced world. They keep us entertained and passionate about life and options are so plentiful here.

The perfect location. There is something very special about Victoria, not just the mild climate and the beauty that surrounds you, but the fact that everything you need or want is close at hand. To keep you entertained, amused and well nourished in Victoria, here are just a few recommendations.

Dine out. A waterfront setting, live music or a cozy table for two… from West Coast and Island Cuisine to international menus and English public houses, whatever you’re craving, you'll find spectacular choices here.

Exploring the Grape. Victoria and local areas are quickly gaining a reputation for delightful, award winning wines. Wonderful boutique wineries are out there awaiting your discovery. Learn the winemaking process, sip some nectar and perhaps even take some home with you.

Shop. Shop. Shop. Have your credit cards ready, as one-of-a-kind galleries and shops are plentiful in Victoria and Vancouver Island. Explore all the delights along Government Street and the surrounding downtown area, or perhaps a stroll down Antique Row in hopes of finding that special treasure. Trounce Alley, one of Victoria’s best kept secrets showcasing European fashions and gift shops; Market Square offering a wonderful selection of specialty shops; the shops of Canada’s oldest Chinatown with it’s historic facades and original buildings; and Bastion Square a bustling market featuring vendors and local artisans in the summer months are all great destinations.

Soak up some of Victoria’s diverse culture. Every summer, music lovers flock to Victoria’s Inner Harbour to hear the wonderful sounds of the Victoria Symphony Orchestra for Symphony Splash. The harbour is transformed into a concert venue of gargantuan proportions and a local favourite.

Victoria offers up something for all tastes in its wonderful array of organized festivals and live concerts throughout the year. Some of the most popular events with locals and international tourists include: Blues Festival; Jazz Festival; Fringe Fest; Dragon Boat Festival, Classic Boat Festival, Great Canadian Beer Festival; Bastion Square Cycling Festival; Bastion Square Arts Festival; Victoria Marathon, Triathlon and Half Ironman races. Unique annual events are sure to please – the Moss Street Paint-In is for the artist in us all. A delightful residential street is the venue for this unique festival of the arts. For a truly romantic night out enjoy a summer night under the starry sky watching the fireworks display at the world renowned Butchart Gardens, don’t forget the picnic and blanket.

Check out www.tourismvictoria.com for a full calendar of events including concert dates and current museum exhibitions.

Pick up some local art. With all the beauty and inspiration Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands have to offer, it's not surprising that the area is a haven for fine artisans. Be sure to visit the many galleries, studios and markets as you explore the great artisan pockets in and around Victoria.