Adventure in Brentwood Bay, British Colombia!

Butchart Gardens

Why Visit?

Unlock the Magic of Butchart Gardens: An Adventure Lover’s Itinerary

Morning Arrival: Start your day early to catch the serene beauty of Butchart Gardens at its finest. Situated on Vancouver Island, the gardens are best accessed from Victoria. Head to the Victoria Bus Station and take the #75 bus which will drop you right at the entrance. As you stroll in, let the fresh aroma of blooming flowers invigorate your senses.

Secrets of Sunken Garden: Your first spectacle is the iconic Sunken Garden. Originally a limestone quarry, it was transformed into a stunning garden by Jennie Butcher in the early 20th century. Adventure lovers will appreciate the dramatic transformation, a testament to nature’s resilience and human creativity.

Japanese Garden Exploration: Next, weave through the Japanese Garden. Created during the Edwardian period, it"s a perfect blend of tranquility and architectural planning. The winding paths and arched bridges offer a subtle thrill with every turn, posing great spots for contemplative reflection or a peaceful rest.

Boat Tour Thrills: By midday, enhance your adventure with a boat tour available from Butchart’s private dock. The tours offer a unique water perspective of the gardens and the surrounding lush landscapes, thrilling for those who love a dash of unexpected exploration.

Rose Carousel Ride: No visit to Butchart is complete without a ride on the hand-carved Rose Carousel. While it might seem whimsical, it’s a thrill for the young-at-heart, offering a charming view of the Italian Garden.

Evening Spectacle: Cap off your visit by enjoying the magical evening illuminations if you’re visiting during summer or the festive lights during winter months. It"s a dazzling display that transforms the garden into an enchanted land, perfect for ending your day of adventure.

Departure: As night falls, catch the #75 bus back to Victoria, filled with the splendid sights and the spirit of adventure still alive in your heart.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Sidney (Sidney-by-the-Sea)

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure in Sidney-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal town on Vancouver Island known for its stunning seascapes and vibrant marine life. This itinerary promises an unforgettable experience full of exploration and excitement.

Day 1: Arrival and Kayaking Adventure

Begin your Sidney adventure by arriving via Victoria International Airport, just 10 minutes away. Grab a rental car or hop on a local bus to reach downtown Sidney. Settle in and then head to the waterfront to join a guided kayaking tour with Blue Dog Kayaking. Paddle through serene waters, and keep your eyes peeled for seals and otters frolicking nearby.

Day 2: Hiking and History

Fuel up with breakfast at a local café before driving to John Dean Provincial Park, about a 15-minute journey from Sidney. Spend the morning hiking through lush forest trails that offer panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula and the Gulf Islands. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating British Columbia Aviation Museum, where you can learn about Canada’s aviation history and see vintage aircraft up close.

Day 3: Biking the Lochside Trail

Rent a bike from Sidney"s Pedego Electric Bikes and set off on the picturesque Lochside Trail. This scenic route takes you through farmland, wetlands, and suburban areas, all the way to Victoria. Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the beaches along the way or stop at the Roost Farm Bakery for a delicious farm-to-table lunch.

Day 4: Whale Watching Finale

No trip to Sidney is complete without a whale-water adventure. Book a tour with Sidney Whale Watching for a chance to see majestic orcas, humpbacks, and minkes in their natural habitat. After an exhilarating day on the water, relax by strolling through Sidney"s charming streets, visiting local boutiques and art galleries.

From kayaking and hiking to biking and whale watching, Sidney-by-the-Sea offers endless adventures that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Church & State Wines

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to Church & State Wines, a gem nestled between Victoria and Sidney on Vancouver Island, renowned for its premium wines and stunning vineyard vistas. This tour is tailored for those who appreciate both the thrill of exploration and the subtleties of fine wine.

### Getting There

Start your journey with a scenic drive from Victoria, taking the Patricia Bay Highway (BC-17) north towards Sidney. In less than 30 minutes, the sprawling vineyards of Church & State Wines appear on your right, marked by tasteful signage inviting you into their world of viticulture. Ample parking is available, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

### The Adventure

Church & State Wines offers more than just tastings. Upon arrival, take a moment to marvel at the vineyard"s stunning 12-acre setting, which creates a picturesque backdrop for your adventure. Opt for a guided vineyard tour to learn about the careful art of viticulture in this unique microclimate, and the secrets behind crafting their award-winning wines.

### Activities

After your educational stroll, dive into a wine tasting session. The tasting room, with its elegant decor and panoramic views of the vineyards, offers a range of wines from crisp whites to bold reds. Each sip tells the story of the local terroir.

Beyond wine, engage in a gourmet picnic on the grounds. The winery provides sumptuously packed baskets filled with local produce, perfect for pairing with your chosen wine. Enjoy your meal surrounded by the tranquil views of the vineyard.

### Interesting Facts

Church & State Wines is known for producing some of Canada"s most robust wines. They focus on small-lot productions, ensuring high-quality and distinct flavor profiles. The winery has impressively claimed Canada’s Best Red at the All Canadian Wine Championships, making this stop a must for any wine aficionado.

### Wrap-Up

Conclude your visit by browsing the gift shop, where you can pick up a bottle (or two) to commemorate your adventure. As the sun sets over the vineyards, you"ll leave with a deeper appreciation for wine and the adventures that come with exploring its origins.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, located just outside of Victoria on Vancouver Island. This vibrant sanctuary is a paradise for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike!

Getting There: Start your day from downtown Victoria, taking a scenic 20-minute drive along Highway 17. For those relying on public transport, buses are readily available, offering a direct route to the gardens. Renting a bike could also add an adventurous twist to your journey, riding through the mesmerizing Saanich Peninsula.

Experience the Gardens: Upon your arrival, prepare to step into a lush, tropical environment housed under a vast dome, which is home to thousands of exotic butterflies fluttering freely. Spanning across 12,000 square feet, the gardens not only feature butterflies but also boast a rich collection of tropical plants, stunning waterfalls, and a variety of birds, fish, and reptiles.

Adventure Tip: Be sure to visit the Insectarium. This fascinating exhibit showcases impressive insects from around the world, including the formidable Atlas moth and glow-in-the-dark scorpions, providing an up-close look at some of nature’s most astonishing creatures.

Engaging Activities: Join one of the daily guided tours to enhance your visit. The knowledgeable guides delve into the lifecycles of butterflies, offering insights that enrich your understanding of this delicate ecosystem. For a more hands-on approach, check out the Flights of Fancy early morning visits, where you can witness and possibly assist in the release of newly hatched butterflies.

Wildlife Photography: Don"t forget your camera. The vibrant colors and constant activity make this an ideal spot for stunning photographs. The controlled environment also allows for incredible macro photography opportunities.

After a thoroughly enriching experience at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, you can continue your adventure exploring the nearby Butchart Gardens or enjoy some local dining in Brentwood Bay, savoring the flavors of the island to conclude your exhilarating day.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Gulf Islands

Why Visit?

Gulf Islands Adventure Tour

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the enchanting Gulf Islands, a serene archipelago nestled between Vancouver Island and the Pacific coast of British Columbia. Renowned for their rugged beauty and eclectic communities, these islands provide a perfect backdrop for an adventure-packed getaway.

Day 1: Salt Spring Island

Start your adventure on Salt Spring Island, the largest and most accessible of the Gulf Islands. Catch a BC Ferries vessel from Tsawwassen to Long Harbour. Once there, hike up Mount Maxwell for breathtaking panoramic views. This strenuous trail rewards with glimpses of Vancouver Island and the distant Cascades. Explore the vibrant Saturday market in Ganges to refuel, where local artisans and farmers showcase organic produce and handmade crafts.

Day 2: Galiano Island

Next, hop on a short ferry ride to Galiano Island. Begin with a kayak tour from Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park, gliding alongside colorful starfish and seals. For the more daring, the island offers excellent spots for scuba diving with diverse marine life. Dry off and hike the Bluffs Park for stunning sunset views over the Active Pass, a famous whale-watching corridor.

Day 3: Pender Islands

A quick ferry transfer will take you to the Pender Islands, twin islands connected by a one-lane bridge. Trek through the enchanted forest of Enchanted Forest Park, a lesser-known gem with rich biodiversity. Don’t miss a visit to the Sea Star Vineyards to taste some of the finest wines produced in the region.

Day 4: Saturna Island

Conclude your adventure on Saturna Island, the least developed of the major Gulf Islands. Take a challenging hike up Mount Warburton Pike, the highest point in the Gulf Islands, offering sweeping views of the San Juan Islands. Saturna is also home to a large population of wild goats, adding a quirky twist to its rugged landscapes.

Travel Tips

Each island has its own charm and character. Ferry schedules can vary, so plan ahead and consider staying overnight to fully immerake in the local culture and natural beauty. Happy adventuring!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.