Victoria, BC: as seen on Samantha Brown’s Places to Love
Places to Love: Season 7 | Episode 3
Season seven of Samantha Brown’s Places to Love began airing on PBS stations in late January 2024, and episode three features none other than beautiful Victoria, British Columbia. Watch along as Samantha explores the history of Canada’s first Chinatown, cycles along Victoria’s coastline, and enjoys some of the city’s finest cuisine.
To follow in Samantha’s footsteps, here’s a guide to following her itinerary. Or to chart your own adventure, check out some of our other recommendations below.
Experiencing Victoria like Samantha Brown
Chinatown and The Pedaler
Samantha’s exploration begins in the vibrant heart of Canada’s first Chinatown, a place where the past is woven through every shop and street corner. Here, history speaks boldly through colourful alleys like the famous Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada. With Charlayne Thornton-Joe—a former City Councillor of 20 years—as her guide, Samantha learns about the rich history of Chinese immigrants in Victoria, dating back to 1858. Each boutique shop holds an endless supply of stories, offering everything from handcrafted garments to aromatic teas. The air is filled with the scents of traditional dishes, inviting visitors to taste centuries-old recipes.
From Chinatown, Samantha joins up with Richard Bell from The Pedaler and takes to Victoria’s bike-friendly streets, a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability and outdoor recreation. Of course, this is no surprise—five minutes after stepping off a plane, ferry or boat, you’ll know why the locals love it here. From long stretches of coastline to dense cedar forests, the great outdoors is one of Greater Victoria’s most striking features.
Beacon Hill Park and Butchart Gardens
The journey continues to Beacon Hill Park, an expansive green space nestled between James Bay and the Cook Street Village. Part nature sanctuary, part children’s adventure zone, the sounds of the city fade away to the melodious songs of birds and the gentle rustle of leaves. It’s a beacon—pun intended—of the city’s delicate balance of vibrant city life and nature’s untouched beauty. And for an authentic taste of Vancouver Island, Samantha makes a short ride over to Finest at Sea for lunch, a seafood market and food truck serving fresh, locally sourced cuisine.
Another highlight of Samantha’s adventure in Victoria is her visit to the renowned Butchart Gardens. Once a barren limestone quarry, this site has been lovingly transformed into a floral paradise. Walking through these gardens is like stepping into a living painting, where each new scene will make your jaw drop.
Following the gardens, Samantha visits the creative tandem behind Puzzle Lab, before embarking on a whale watching expedition with Brett Soberg from Eagle Wing Tours—a company that’s an industry leader in conservation and sustainable tourism. For dinner, 10 Acres Bistro hosts Samantha for an exceptional meal with fresh, seasonal ingredients straight from their 10 acre farm just minutes away on the Saanich Peninsula. And to cap off her Greater Victoria adventure, Samantha heads over to the Fairmont Empress to enjoy a sunset cocktail served in a teacup—the perfect end to a stay in the province’s capital.
p.s. An upcoming special episode of Places to Love will be featuring Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse. Keep a lookout for it on PBS beginning the week of February 26!
Hidden Gems
Many of Victoria’s highlights were captured in this Places to Love installment, but you can’t cover everything off in a 30-minute episode. In the same spirit as Samantha’s adventure, here are some more activities to consider for your next trip to Greater Victoria.
1. Abkhazi Garden
For another relaxing garden & tea experience, visit Abkhazi Garden. Created by Prince and Princess Abkhazi in 1946, this garden is a testament to their love story, surviving through war and separation. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped paths, where every turn reveals meticulously cared-for flower beds, exotic plants, and sweeping views. It's not just a garden—it's a narrative of resilience, beauty, and the enduring power of love.
Abkhazi Garden
2. Oak Bay Avenue
For a slice of Victoria's quintessential charm, a stroll down Oak Bay Avenue is a must. This quaint street offers an eclectic mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. It's like stepping into a village within the city, where the pace slows down, and the atmosphere invites you to browse, dine, and unwind. Oak Bay Avenue is perfect for those looking to experience local life, find unique gifts, or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon soaking in the neighbourhood's friendly vibe.
3. Craigdarroch Castle
Step back in time with a visit to Craigdarroch Castle, a testament to Victorian architecture's opulence and elegance. Built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir during the late 1800s, the castle showcases the grandeur of Victoria's history. Touring its rooms, you'll find stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and furnishings that tell the story of a family at the pinnacle of society.
Craigdarroch Castle
4. Swan Lake
For a tranquil afternoon immersed in nature, visit Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. A favourite location for wildlife photographers, visitors have the option of walking a short loop around the water or taking in the scenic view from a bench. Aspiring botanists and the naturally curious will take interest in The Nature House on site, an interpretive information centre where visitors can learn about the local ecosystem. In line with Greater Victoria’s focus on accessibility, The Nature House is also wheelchair accessible.
Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary
5. Fort Street aka “Antique Row”
For lovers of all things vintage and unique, Fort Street, sometimes known as “Antique Row,” is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Lined with antique shops, art galleries, and vintage boutiques, this street offers a fascinating journey through time. Each store is a doorway to the past, where you can find everything from Victorian-era jewelry to mid-century modern furniture. Whether you're a serious collector or just browsing, Antique Row offers a unique shopping experience that harks back to Victoria's historical roots.
Places to Love: Victoria, BC
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