Health & Wellness Itinerary
From the moment you arrive, embrace the serenity that comes with island living as you soak up the intentional pace of life, abundant natural environment, and calming vistas. Between relaxing oceanside in mineral pools, meandering among giants in west coast rainforests or paddling out for an epic sunset on the Salish Sea, discover why Victoria offers the ultimate wellness getaway.
Let’s face it, no two wellness journeys are the same. In this itinerary, we encourage you to build the wellness getaway that’s right for you. We recommend choosing one element from each category for each day you intend to visit and craft your own perfect restorative vacation.
Splendid spas & saunas
Victoria is a city fit for a queen. So treat yourself like one. Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at a local spa. Whether you want to soak seaside, or pamper yourself in a castle on the coast, there’s a spa experience that’s just right for you.
The Boathouse Spa
Situated at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, The Boathouse Spa, offers one of city's best wellness escapes. You can soak in seaside mineral pools and watch the sunset melt behind the mountains, stargaze out of saunas, or enjoy a classic treatment, like a massage or skincare in their seaside spa.
Photo Credit: @queenie_gx (Instagram)
Parkside Hotel & Spa
Escape to the tranquil Parkside Hotel & Spa, where they’ve brought the outside in with their stunning atrium full of lush plant life and tranquil ponds with colourful koi fish as well as a wide selection of spa services. Alternatively, rejuvenate at the iconic Fairmont Empress and at their award-winning Fairmont Spa where you’ll leave feeling energized and inspired.
Photo Credit: @fairmontempress (Instagram)
Fairmont Spa
Escape from it all in the heart of the city. Located inside the magnificent Fairmont Empress hotel, Canada's Castle on the Coast, the Fairmont Spa offers an experience inspired by the Island itself, using products with only the finest natural ingredients.
HAVN Saunas
Floating atop the Inner Harbour, you'll find HAVN Saunas, which boasts one of the destinations premier hydrotherapy circuits. Soak up the heat of the saunas, plunge into a icy dip tank, and catch stunning harbour views from a hot tub as you watch the world go by.
Spectacular nature
There’s nothing quite like a venture into nature to get yourself grounded and re-centred and Victoria’s mild climate lets islanders and guests enjoy outdoor activities year-round. With endless scenic trails and lush forests, Victoria is the perfect place to experience forest bathing which will fully immerse you, body and mind, in the natural world.
Rainforest Tours
Book a hike with Rainforest Tours where you’ll explore the natural wonders that surround Victoria and be guided through a mindful exploration of East Sooke Park or the Juan De Fuca Marine Trail. Rainforest Tours offers intimate guided adventures into Vancouver Island’s temperate rain forests. With one guide for every six guests, Rainforest Tours guided hikes are ideal for families, as well as hikers looking to meet fellow travellers.
Photo Credit: @tyler_macsemniuk (Instagram)
Island Trails Ecotours
Explore the the rugged shores and breathtaking rainforests of Vancouver Island with Island Trails Ecotours and see the land through the eyes of a naturalist. As you explore, you'll learn all about the flora and fauna of our coastal home, while finding hidden gems, and maybe even a few wildlife encounters along the way.
Vancouver Island Hikes, Bites + Beer
Pair your Island adventure with a little bit of Island favour. The folks over at Vancouver Island Hikes, Bites + Beer offer hikes throughout Greater Victoria and pair them with a dining experience at a local brew pub where you can indulge in fresh, local flavours, and maybe even a pint or two.
Beach bummin'
Wander down to the beach. Take in the surrounding mountains and breathe in the salty sea air. Victoria has several wonderful beaches to choose from. Meander down the walking path on Dallas Road for ocean views and stop at Ogden Point or Willows Beach for a picnic.
Fuel up with fresh, local food
Victoria is a city that measures farm to table on a scale of metres not miles. Indulge in flavours farmed and foraged fields and forests footsteps from downtown, and savour the creativity as the city’s chefs celebrate our local bounty.
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe
Nourish Kitchen & Cafe serves up farm-to-table dining in a Heritage Home in the heart of Victoria's James Bay neighbourhood. This local favourite is a must for anyone in search of a healthy and hearty brunch or dinner. Nourish caters to whatever you're in the mood for, with many dairy free, gluten free, and vegan options, as well as an assortment of vibrant lattes that are certain to brighten your day.
Spinnaker Gastro Brewpub
Start your morning at Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub – with a brunch menu of comforting dishes focused on local and natural ingredients, you’ll leave feeling healthy and happy. Their waterfront space also features a full-service Provisions and coffee bar with rich, local brews and baking that are sure to have you alert and fresh-faced for the day ahead. Whether you opt for a savoury option like the House Smoked Salmon Frittata or a sweeter option such as the Spinnakers Granola Parfait, your taste buds will be thanking you! In addition to terrific local fare, Spinnakers are pouring up some of the city’s finest craft beer and spirits, be sure to grab a bottle for your evening unwind.
Photo Credit: @vicfoodguys (Instagram)
10 Acres
10 Acres boasts four unique dining locations under their wing, each sourcing their seasonal ingredients from their own 10 Acres Farm up in North Saanich. That’s right, 10 Acres know where their produce grows, because they grow it themselves; this includes not only seasonal vegetables but also livestock, honey, and even kiwis! Dig into the bounty of the Saanich Peninsula with dinner at 10 Acres. Choose from one of three locations, the Bistro or Commons in downtown Victoria, or Pier in Sidney.
Photo Credit: @nana.littlekitchen (Instagram)
End Dive
End Dive’s obsessive commitment to local food ensures an ever-changing menu that means no two visits are ever the same. End Dive playfully curates dishes with the best available ingredients from our local fishers, growers, and pickers and pairs them all brilliantly with house crafted cocktails and natural wines. An exploration into Victoria’s foodie scene begins and ends with End Dive.
Get out on the water
As an island destination, Greater Victoria is surrounded by water, so it’s no wonder we’ve found so many ways to play amidst the rolling waves. From paddling to whale watching and more, Victoria implores you to explore the wonderful world beyond our shoreline.
Kelp Reef Adventures
Explore a side of Victoria you've never seen before, it's aquatic side! Kelp Reef Adventures invites you to set sail (...or paddle) onto the waters or the Salish Sea. Their guided tours provide you with opportunities to paddle the iconic Inner Harbour and soak in the city's sites, or embark out past the harbour to view breathtaking islands, mountains, and maybe even stumble upon a friendly sealion or otter.
Victoria Harbour Ferry Company
Hop aboard a Harbour Ferry, or "Pickleboat" as they're affectionately known by locals. These small but mighty vessels offer both a hop-on-hop off experience across Victoria's Inner Harbour, but also guided tours highlighting some of the must-see sights along the city's waterfront.
Whale watching
Whale watching is one of Victoria's most iconic attractions. Home to several sustainable whale watching companies, Victoria invites you to explore the Salish Sea in search of magnificent beasts, offering an incredible experience that puts the safety and wellbeing of these animals first. On your tour, you might be so lucky as to see orcas, humpbacks, and even gray whales, as well as other maritime creatures including sealions, otters, and harbour seals. This is a must do experience for those looking to reconnect with the natural world around them
South Island SUP
South Island SUP offer standup paddleboarding lessons and tours out of a number of Victoria's favourite beaches and lakes. The team at South Island SUP will make sure you're comfortable on your board before setting off onto an aquatic expedition of your choosing, whether that's hidden beaches, vibrant sunsets, or even mind-blowing bioluminescence.
Enjoy a stroll through a garden
With Canada’s mildest climate, Victoria, BC offers growing conditions unlike anywhere else in the country. So it’s no surprise we are aptly known as Canada’s Garden City. Explore a city where neighbourhoods are stitched together by gardens and greenspaces and experience Victoria in full colour.
The Butchart Gardens
If you are looking to cruise out of the downtown, then a stop at Butchart Gardens is a must. Fifty-five acres of floral finery await you as you stroll along meandering paths and expansive lawns at The Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada. The Butchart Gardens is a picture-perfect place to celebrate your arrival in Canada's Garden City. Home to an array of garden ranging from the world-famous Sunken Gardens, to an Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, and more, The Butchart Gardens showcase the tremendous growing conditions of Canada's mildest climate.
Photo Credit: @kntefn (Instagram)
Abkhazi Garden
This hidden gem garden is known as the Garden That Love Built, due to it's globe-spanning, romantic origin story, where the Prince of Abkhazia and his longtime love, separated by war, would once find each other again and settle down in Victoria, BC. This beautiful space features an unforgettable gardenside tearoom, where you can enjoy one of the city's finest afternoon tea experiences.
The Gardens at HCP
This volunteer run garden is just a short drive from downtown Victoria, and well worth the trip. It's easy to spend a day lost amidst a range of gardens, tended to by volunteers, that span from Bonsai trees to local native plants and everything in between. Off the beaten path, The Gardens at HCP offer a place to connect with the natural world in an intimate setting.
Beacon Hill Park
Victoria – also known as the City of Gardens – is home to several spectacular gardens that range from formal to heritage, exotic to westcoast, and multi-themed to mostly rhododendron. One of the largest gardens is Beacon Hill Park at 178-acres. This public park is a showpiece of Victoria’s long gardening tradition. The Park boasts large remnants of the fragile native Garry Oak ecosystem, five man-made lakes, a stone bridge, original fountains and woodland streams, trails, a petting animal farm and wading pool, water fountains, picnic areas, monuments, sports fields and playgrounds, totem poles and lots and lots of flowers!
Photo Credit: @chrismillikan
Stay in style
No wellness retreat is complete without the perfect night’s sleep. These Victoria hotels provide the perfect space to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and savour every moment of your time away.
Magnolia Hotel & Spa
In Victoria, you can treat yourself like royalty. Luxury boutique hotels, such as the Magnolia Hotel & Spa, allow you to spoil yourself in the way you deserve (you’ve earned it after all). The Magnolia’s dedication to superior, personalized service makes for a truly unforgettable experience. The magnificent Spa Magnolia offers a serene escape from the stresses of daily life, and their beautiful restaurant, The Courtney Room, is a local favourite for timelessly elegant dining and boasts one of the city’s most extensive wine selections. Located steps from Victoria’s famed Inner Harbour and historic landmarks, the Magnolia brings the best of what Victoria has to offer right to your fingertips.
Photo Credit: @how.i.handle.my.vices
Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites
The Victoria Regent is located mere footsteps from the city's best shopping, dining, and attractions, yet you'll feel like you've found a tucked away gem. This beautiful property offers spacious rooms and a breathtaking view of the Inner Harbour, perfect for watching seaplanes and harbour ferries scuttle across the water.
Inn at Laurel Point
The Inn at Laurel Point, located along the shores of the Inner Harbour, blends artistry and elegance. Their waterfront rooms provide opportunities to watch the bustle of the harbour, as pickleboats weave back and forth across the waves. The hotel boasts a brilliant collection of artwork, both local and from around the world, that makes a stay at the hotel an experience all its own.
Brentwood Bay Resort
Nestled away in the heart of the Saanich Peninsula’s Flavour Trails lies the Brentwood Bay Resort. This breathtaking resort brings together the best in modern luxury and natural beauty. Graceful hospitality meets fine dining at the resort’s restaurant, The Arbutus Room, featuring the freshest local ingredients. The resort also boasts a world class spa, mere steps from the tranquil waters of the Saanich Inlet. Brentwood Bay Resort’s one-of-a-kind connection to nature inspires you to be truly in the moment.
Photo Credit: @pokethewolf (Instagram)
Download Victoria's Vacation Guide
Navigate our map of Greater Victoria
Victoria Visitor Centre
812 Wharf Street
Victoria, B.C.
More Greater Victoria
Corporate Hub
