Top 5: Winston’s Top Dog-Friendly Spots in Victoria, BC

Fairmont Empress Canine Ambassador Winston, a 5 year old Labrador/Golden Retriever cross joined the team in January 2019. Since then he has been hard at work welcoming guests, stealing hearts and eating treats.

If you’ll be travelling with your dog this summer, Winston knows all the great spots to check out together.

a child walks along a beach

Island View Beach Regional Park

When the tide is out, there is no shortage of sandy beach for Winston to do his zoomies and get as sandy as possible. His parents love the views of Mount Baker, James Island and Haro Strait from across the ocean and Winston loves the abundance of picnic tables where he might score a snack or two.

Winston taking in those Vancouver Island views

Dallas Road

Call him basic, but the basics are popular for a reason! Dallas Road is a 4km long oceanfront walkway popular with Victoria’s locals and their 4-legged family members. Winston’s favorite is from Douglas Street to Clover Point where he can be off-leash and make new friends. Extra Basic: If we get all the way down to the James Bay end, Winston loves to cap off the adventure with a Puppuccino from Starbucks.

Winston on the hunt for fish & chips at Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf

This one is a little off the beaten path, but if your dog has sea legs like Winston does, hop on one of Victoria’s famous water taxis and head to Fisherman’s Wharf. This fun pier is lined with outdoor picnic tables where you can enjoy lunch from the many restaurants with your furry friend. While it has some of the best views of the city, Winston has never noticed as he spends much of the time hoping someone will drop their fish and chips!

families enjoying the beach

Gyro Beach

Part of the Cadboro Bay Beach Park, beach access is more limited in the summer but it’s still a great spot. Beautiful water to swim in and plenty of sticks for your Branch Manager and your Assistant Branch Manager alike. Winston loves to chase a good stick! (There is a fantastic playground for your 2-legged kids too.)

dog standing in front of the hotel

Fairmont Empress

Last but certainly not least, is Fairmont Empress. When staying with your pet, you’ll receive a custom pet bed based on the size of the furry guest, water and feeding bowls, treats and a welcome card personally signed by Winston. Book Now.

Keep in Touch: To see what’s up with Winston, and get a dog’s eye view of more hidden gems in Victoria, check him out on Instagram @WinstonattheEmpress

Other Stories You May Like

Holiday

Top 5 Reasons Victoria, BC Is The Best Christmas Getaway

Beautiful Victoria, British Columbia is the perfect spot for making Christmas memories with the whole family. We’ve curated some of our holiday favorites – old and new.
Explore Victoria
exterior view of the hotel Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress Earns Prestigious BIOSPHERE© Certification

Fairmont Empress has earned the distinguished BIOSPHERE© Certification as awarded by the Responsible Tourism Institute, an international non-profit NGO, which for more than 20 years has promoted responsible tourism at an international level.
History
fairmont gold renovations fairmont empress

Fairmont Empress Unveils Transformed Fairmont Gold Experience

The multi-million dollar renovation includes reimagined Fairmont Gold experience with expansive private lounge and addition of 22 new Fairmont Gold guest rooms
Food & Beverage

Fairmont Empress Introduces Into the Lavender Haze: A Romantic Retreat

Experience the essence of romance with a lavish and lavender-infused retreat designed to set the stage for an enchanting getaway.
Explore Victoria
Ocean Reflections painting my Maureen Ness

Artist in Residence Program at Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress has a new Artist in Residence program, captivating guests with live art performances and showcasing the extraordinary talents of local artists in the Greater Victoria area.
Explore Victoria
victoria YYJ fairmont empress spring travel cherry blossom season

Cherry Blossom Season in BC's Capital City

Victoria’s cherry blossoms begin to bloom by late February and the stunning display continues until May, creating spectacular pink and white archways throughout the city. Whether you are exploring new roads or seeing Victoria in a new hue, Canada’s Castle on the Coast is the perfect Spring Getaway.