Craigdarroch Castle: Victoria's fairy tale mansion Craigdarroch Castle is considered a gem of Victorian architecture. Immigrant Sottish entrepreneur Robert Dunsmuir commissioned the home for his wife in the 1880s. Dunsmuir made his fortune in coal mining but died before his mansion was completed. The house is situate in a particularly affluent area of Victoria. Elegant Rockland centers on Rockland Avenue which is lined with grand heritage homes including Government House the official residence of Her Majesty's representative in British Columbia. The house itself is closed to the public but the beautifully kept gardens are a delight. Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria
Beacon Hill Park: Green and well tended Beacon Hill Park is a favorite recreation area close to the town center. From its highest point there are lovely views across Juan de Fuca Strait to the snowy peaks of the Olympic Peninsula. Amiestone on the southwest edge of the park marks the western end of the Trans Canada Highway. Address: 100 Cook St., Victoria
Fruit Vegetables in Chinatown: Adjoining the Old Town is Victoria's small but nevertheless charming Chinatown. Entered through a conspicuous gate it occupies just two blocks close to Government Street and Fisgard Street. A century go 8000 people lived in the Chinese quarter. In 1971 it become a designated historic district. One of the favorite sightseeing stops is the exceedingly narrow Fan Tan Ally.
Parliament Buildings: Dominating the sout side of the Inner Harbour is the imposing seat of British Columbia's provincial government the Parliament Buildings. Designed by Yorkshire architect Francis M. Rattenbury and erected in 1897 the imposing stone buildings have neat orderly gardens and are very attractive in appearance especially in the evening when lit by festoons of lights. Perched high above the massive dome is a gilded statue of Captain George Vancouver (1757-98) who accomplished the first circumnavigation of Vancouver Island. Figures of famous personalities from the province embellish the facade. Alarge statue of Queen Victoria surveys the Inner Harbour from the terrace. Tours of the town center by horse draw carriage leave from nearby. Address:501 Belleville st, Victoria.