Hi Rory, I have lived in the Mill Bay area ( 45k north of Victoria ) for 24 yrs ( less a three year exile to Ontario ! )
I have had a few visitors from the U.K. and back east .
If you come thro' Swartz Bay ,from Twassen ,which I recommend as the route through the gulf islands is nothing short of spectacular then I woud spend a couple of days in Victoria . Do the scenic route to see the splendid view from Dallas road looking accross at the Olympics .
Saxe Point Park is a lovely well maintained garden with again wonderful views.
An hour or to around the harbour is always interesting and if you were up to the walk the West Bay walkway leads to Esquimalt along the front ,over paths and board walks.
Drive over the Malahat stopping to take in the sights from all three lookouts ,at least dont miss the third one where the rock has been blasted as this must be one of the most incredible panoramas in the world ,looking out over the Gulf Islands .( On the way back take the Mill Bay - Brentwood ferry , a great way to end your trip )
As Steve mentioned Tofino is a few hours away down a very long winding road but is well worth the visit if you think you can afford to lose the travelling time.
Another thought would be to visit a couple of Gulf Islands ,say Saltspring and Quadra. Saltspring has its own charm and you should go up Mount Maxwell ,just outside Ganges , which you can drive to the summit and gaze over a frightening drop ( above the eagles ) at the awesome view in both directions.
Most of the islands have ferry services and have Kayak rentals etc.
Campbell River is not too far away but I find that ,unless you are a keen fisherman or want to whale watch then there is plenty to see and do to the south.
Cowichan Bay is a neat little fishing village ,stop in at the Rock Cod Cafe for a superb serving of fish and chips!( No I am am just a customer !!)
If you call ahead we may be around so you can stop for coffee .
Hope you enjoy our beautiful island .....................................Dave
|