Romance in Victoria

Romance in Victoria

It’s no wonder that Victoria, British Columbia is famed for being one of Canada’s most romantic cities. With its rugged coastline, manicured gardens, distinctive neighbourhoods and beautiful historic architecture, it’s a stunning landscape to explore with your love.

Stroll the cobblestone streets of downtown Victoria with your sweetheart and pop-in to Roger’s Chocolates for delicious confections that have been delighting visitors since 1885. Or take in the colors of the city’s beautiful botanical gardens and art galleries. If you’re not sure where to start, we have some date ideas that are sure to sweep your beloved off their feet.

Abkhazi Gardens
Close up of flowers at Abkhazi Gardens

Abkhazi Gardens

Known as, “The Garden That Love Built”, the history of this garden is a love story in itself.  After exile on the Black Sea and captivity during WWII, Prince Nicholas Abkhazi married Peggy Pemberton-Carter and left New York for the city of Victoria, BC in 1946. For 40 years, the prince and princess developed the stunning gardens on the acre that surrounded their home. Purchased by the Land Conservancy in 2000, the gardens remain a popular spot to take in natural beauty of their labour of love.

Couple walking through Victoria
Couple walking through Victoria

Hidden Gem – Fernwood

Just a short walk from downtown Victoria, Fernwood is a quirky and cute little neighbourhood to spend an afternoon. Stop into the Fernwood Inn Pub for a local microbrew beer, then onto the Little Fernwood Gallery for an art fix and top it off with dinner at Stage Wine Bar, all within the same block. Before you leave, leave a wish on the community “Wish Tree”.

Couple overlooking beach
Couple overlooking beach

Willows Beach

Victoria is surrounded by stunning beaches. One of the most picturesque of the lot is Willows Beach, with panoramic views featuring Haro Strait, Mount Bachelor and the Olympic Mountains in neighboring Washington State. This beautiful soft sand beach also features plenty of green space, the perfect spot for a picnic or perhaps, Empress Tea To-Go.

Fairmont Empress at Dusk
Fairmont Empress at Dusk

Romance at the Empress

The Empress has been a romantic destination for over 115 years. The beautiful Castle on the Coast boasts a stunning grand entrance, romantic features (have you seen the beautiful wooden accents in the restaurant?), and luxurious accommodations, many with beautiful views of Victoria’s sparkling Inner Harbour.

May we suggest: a couple’s massage at Willow Stream Spa, Afternoon Tea in the spectacular Lobby Lounge, or cocktails on the Veranda overlooking the beautiful Empress gardens and bustling Inner Harbour.

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