Your calmcation destination
Picture this: You’re stuck in traffic, radio blaring, the city’s constant buzz weaving a subtle tension into your day. Now, imagine stepping into Victoria, BC—a sanctuary where the pace gracefully slows, and the serene symphony of nature welcomes you. Here, timeless charm blends seamlessly with modern elegance, offering you a calming retreat and an opportunity to find peace in any moment. Let Victoria guide you through your ideal Calmcation, a serene escape crafted just for you.
Recommended accommodations:
Oak Bay Beach Hotel & The Boathouse Spa
Escape the hustle and bustle at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, where luxury meets tranquility along the serene shores of the Salish Sea. Enjoy a peaceful night's sleep, with the calming ocean breeze substituting the city's clamor. Begin your day at The Boathouse Spa, where expert treatments melt away your worries like a pastel sunset, then take a dip in the famed oceanside mineral pools, letting your stresses break like waves against the rocks below. Here, the spirit of Victoria rejuvenates both body and soul, offering an experience that lingers long after your return home.
Dashwood Manor Seaside Bed & Breakfast Inn
Discover the elegance of Dashwood Manor Seaside Bed & Breakfast Inn, where romance and luxury intertwine. Ranked among the top 10 bed & breakfasts in Canada and the world for romance, Dashwood Manor offers stunning views of the Salish Sea and the majestic Olympic Mountains. Wake up in a haven of comfort, with beaches and scenic walking paths along Dallas Road at your doorstep, and the historic allure of Beacon Hill Park (a natural oasis in the heart of the city) just around the corner. Dashwood Manor positions you conveniently close to the vibrant amenities of downtown Victoria, blending tranquil retreat with easy access to the city’s charms. Here, each moment is crafted for relaxation and romance.
Day one:
Pedal through Victoria’s scenic bike lanes for a day of serenity, savouring brunch with stunning harbour views and discovering creative escapes. Round off your adventure with exquisite dining and a rooftop view that’s sure to leave an impression.
Explore Victoria by Bike
Embrace the freedom of two wheels by renting a bicycle from The Pedaler Cycling Tours and Rentals and discover Victoria's renowned bike-friendly charm. With an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and regional pathways, including the scenic Galloping Goose, the city invites you to explore its neighbourhoods with ease and enjoyment. Whether you're leisurely cycling through leafy streets or making your way toward vibrant attractions, Victoria's bike-ability ensures every ride is a pleasure. As you journey downtown, seamlessly transition from cycling to exploring by using the City of Victoria's convenient bike valet for secure bicycle parking. But before we explore the core, it's time to pedal over to brunch and start your day of serene exploration.
LURE Restaurant & Bar
Fuel your journey with a memorable brunch at LURE Restaurant & Bar, where culinary delight meets breathtaking tranquility. Overlooking Victoria's serene Inner Harbour, LURE offers a range of delectable and healthy brunch options to gently awaken your senses. As you enjoy your meal, take in the graceful dance of seaplanes gliding through the water, water taxis calmly navigating the harbour, and kayakers leisurely paddling by—all against the backdrop of Victoria's iconic landmarks. This harmonious blend of exquisite flavours and peaceful views makes it an essential part of your morning ritual.
Local Tip: Be sure to try the LURE Hash, featuring sustainably sourced Vancouver Island steelhead—a delightful dish that captures the fresh flavours of the island.
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
Immerse yourself in a world of creativity and reflection at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, where art and nature meet in a serene, park-like setting. As the largest public art gallery on Vancouver Island, and one of the most significant in Canada, it offers a fascinating blend of contemporary exhibition spaces beautifully integrated with the historic charm of the 1889 Spencer Mansion. Wander through the captivating displays, experiencing a unique fusion of history and modern art. The gallery’s Asian garden is home to one of the few authentic Shinto shrines outside of Japan, offering a peaceful spot to pause and reflect during your cultural exploration.
Local tip: In Victoria, you’re never rushed. Take your time and explore some of the city’s many parks and viewpoints on your ride back into town.
Starlite Soap Studio
Return to downtown Victoria and delve into the soothing world of creativity at Starlite Soap Studio with a hands-on soap making workshop. In this two-hour instructor-led session, you’ll choose from a captivating palette of colours and an array of delightful scents, crafting a soap that reflects your personal style. The tactile experience and rich sensory elements combine to create an immersive escape, allowing you to unwind as you engage your senses and watch your unique creation come to life. This relaxing activity provides the perfect balance of art and tranquility, enriching your journey with a touch of personal flair. Now let’s return those bikes and grab a bite for dinner!
Starlite Soap Studio
Vista 18 Restaurant & Lounge
End your day with dinner at Vista 18 Restaurant & Lounge, Victoria’s only rooftop dining experience, where panoramic views set the stage for an unforgettable meal. As the sun dips below the horizon, watch the city come alive with twinkling lights, including the illuminated BC Parliament Buildings and other iconic landmarks. The menu at Vista 18 celebrates the region with a selection of locally sourced fare, offering a taste of the Island's rich culinary bounty. After a delightful dinner, head downstairs to Clive’s Classic Lounge for a nightcap. Renowned as one of the top hotel bars in the world, Clive’s offers expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting, rounding off your evening with style and a touch of sophistication.
Day two:
Awaken your senses with a serene sunrise paddle, setting a peaceful tone as you explore Victoria’s hidden treasures. Relish in peace and creativity throughout the day, before winding down with an intimate dinner and a sunset walk that offers perfect moments of reflection.
South Island SUP
Begin your second day with a sunrise paddle tour with South Island SUP, where tranquility meets awe on the serene waters of the Salish Sea. As you glide across the calm surface, you'll witness a breathtaking sunrise unfolding before you, casting warm hues over the horizon as the sun rises behind the majestic Cascade Mountains. This peaceful paddling experience offers a unique perspective, inviting you to connect with nature in a way that invigorates your spirit and sets a serene tone for the day ahead.
South Island SUP
The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden
Continue your Calmcation with a delightful afternoon tea at The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden, where history and romance enrich your serene escape. Nestled within a storied one-acre landscape, enjoy a selection of fine teas accompanied by an array of finger sandwiches and freshly baked goods, all while surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the garden. The garden itself tells the captivating love story of the Prince and Princess of Abkhazia, adding an element of timeless romance to your visit. After your relaxing tea, take a leisurely stroll through the historic paths, where every flower and tree become part of your calming journey.
The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden
Flore Botanical Alchemy
Inspired by the floral scents of the garden, your next stop is Flore Botanical Alchemy—a natural perfumery where relaxation meets creativity in crafting your own signature scent. Engage in a mindful, transformative journey that highlights self-care and personal expression. Here, you can immerse yourself in the soothing art of blending natural fragrances, capturing the aromatic essence of your journey. This tranquil experience is not just about creating a beautiful scent—it's a meditative act of beauty and self-expression, leaving you with a bespoke fragrance that embodies your unique story and peaceful state of mind.
Flore Botanical Alchemy
Vis-à-Vis
Enjoy an early dinner at Vis-à-Vis, where dining becomes a personalized and engaging experience with their face-to-face mentality. This intimate setting offers you a front-row seat to interact with the bartender and charcutier, enriching your meal with culinary insights. Indulge in a traditional French dinner crafted with care, and for a truly exquisite experience, we recommend sharing the Duck & Pork Terrine—a perfect complement to your meal. At Vis-à-Vis, each dish is served with a side of connection, making your dining experience both delightful and memorable.
Vis-à-Vis
The Breakwater
Wind down your day with a serene sunset walk along the Ogden Point Breakwater, where the gentle sounds of the sea accompany your steps. As you stroll to the edge of the Island, watch the sun gracefully slip behind the Olympic Mountains, painting the sky with a tapestry of colours. This tranquil experience offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on the serene moments of your journey, while the calming ambiance of the ocean lulls you into a peaceful state. It's a beautiful way to end the day, surrounded by the natural beauty of Victoria.
The BreakwaterDay three:
Start your day with a relaxing coastal brunch, immersing yourself in its distinctive flavours. Embrace the peace found in nature’s gentle rhythms, renewing your spirit. Then end the day with an exquisite dining experience, letting the elegance of your Calmcation linger into the night.
Fathom
After a leisurely morning, grab a soothing brunch at Fathom in the Hotel Grand Pacific, where space and elegance set the stage for a relaxing meal. Chef Peter Kim draws inspiration from the rugged beauty of the west coast, crafting a seafood-forward menu that is both innovative and deeply rooted in local traditions. Enjoy a delicious and thoughtfully curated dining experience that showcases the fresh bounty of the region, all within a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere.
Local Tip: Indulge in the Smoked Salmon Benny, featuring guacamole, zesty yuzu hollandaise, and crispy potato wedges—an exquisite dish that captures the essence of Victoria's coastal flavours and the distinctive flare of our city’s best chefs.
Bilston Creek Farm
Calm and collected, continue your day with a visit to Bilston Creek Farm, a serene lavender paradise nestled in the heart of Metchosin, where history, nature, and relaxation intertwine. Surrounded by the lush beauty of forest and sea, the farm offers a tranquil escape. Wander through the heritage orchard, take a tour to learn about the farm's rich history, and breathe in the soothing aroma of lavender distilled in their traditional Portuguese copper still. Discover the thoughtfully crafted, all-natural products made from the farm's own lavender, apples, and honey in the farm store. Enjoy lavender-infused drinks in the charming setting of the historic barn, creating a perfect backdrop for reflection and enjoyment amidst nature.
Local Tip: Unwind by the orchard at a cozy firepit, spending time roasting s'mores and relaxing to the calming sounds of crackling firewood and the rustle of the surrounding coastal rainforest—an ideal way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bilston Creek Farm.
Wildwood Saunas
Extend the tranquility you've embraced at Bilston Creek Farm by indulging in a rejuvenating sauna experience at Wildwood Saunas, conveniently located on the farm. Here, traditional Nordic-style saunas merge with the invigorating benefits of cold plunging, offering a holistic wellness retreat. Surrounded by nature, each sauna provides a peaceful sanctuary where you can refresh your mind, body, and spirit. Immerse yourself in this soothing practice and carry forward the stillness and serenity you've discovered, further enhancing your connection with the natural world.
Wildwood Saunas
Witty's Lagoon Regional Park
On your way back to Victoria, take a moment to stop at Witty's Lagoon Regional Park and immerse yourself in the tranquility of forest bathing. Find calm and rejuvenation beneath the canopy of majestic cedars and arbutus trees, enveloped in the refreshing embrace of nature. Stroll along the trails and admire the beauty of Sitting Lady Falls, where the soothing pink noise of cascading water creates a serene soundtrack as it flows into the estuary below. As your journey leads you to an expansive beach, feel the sand beneath your toes and let the gentle ocean breezes invigorate your senses and open your mind to the present moment's peace and clarity.
Witty's Lagoon Regional Park
Q at the Empress
Celebrate your final night in style at Q at the Empress, where grace and refinement create a setting worthy of a queen. This elegant dining experience combines romance, fine wines, and impeccable service in an atmosphere that envelops you in tranquility. The award-winning menu features exquisite four-diamond cuisine, perfectly paired with a curated 500-label wine list, overseen by three expert sommeliers. With the glow of candlelight, tapestry-covered walls, and live harp music softly playing, every detail contributes to the serene ambiance for an unforgettable evening. Toast to the serene elegance of your visit to Victoria with a dining experience that will linger on your tastebuds and in your memory.
Q at the EmpressExtend your stay, connect with the wilderness
Moon Water Lodge
Embrace tranquility at the Moon Water Lodge, where your Calmcation takes flight. Perched atop the Malahat, the lodge provides breathtaking views of the Saanich Inlet, promising one of the most spectacular sunrises in Greater Victoria. Wake up to the enchanting sight of the sky transforming into ribbons of colour and feel an intimate connection with nature as you watch birds of prey soaring from towering cedars, or perhaps catch a glimpse of a majestic pod of orcas gliding through the water below. At Moon Water Lodge, every sunrise marks the beginning of a day infused with calm and wonder, offering you a peaceful retreat steeped in the natural beauty.
Moon Water Lodge
Wild Renfrew
For those really looking to get away from it all, look no further than Wild Renfrew on the rugged Southwest coast of Vancouver Island. Situated in the small village of Port Renfrew, Wild Renfrew is miles away from ordinary. Nestled between the mighty cedars of the Island’s coastal rainforest, and the calming waters of the Port San Juan inlet, Wild Renfrew allows you to get away from it all, in a way that few places can. Watch eagles, bears, whales, and passing storms (depending on the season) from a cozy, seaside suite and get lost in the moment of it all.
Wild Renfrew
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