Escapees May June 2015 Demo

Nanaimo waterfront.

Southern Van Article and photos by Carol Ann Quibell #38554 Experience the Beauty of

Harbor, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cor- dova Bay, Mount Douglas Park and the neighborhoods of Oak Bay and Uplands. Follow the Galloping Goose Trail from downtown towards the BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay, and enjoy the scenery of the parks, farms and communities along the way. There’s more to see here than just the fabulous downtown area, so make sure you visit the visitor information center for directions and information on the Craigdarroch Castle, Butchart Gardens and the many museums and art galleries. Sign up for an exciting whale-watching tour or get to know the local marine life by diving at Ogden Point Breakwater or the Race Rocks Underwater Marine Park. Cycling is extremely popular in Victoria, but so is golfing. The mild climate makes it possible for avid golfers to swing their clubs year-round on some of the most picturesque courses on the island. After the hustle and bustle of Vic- toria, it will be nice to relax and enjoy the scenery of the tree-lined Malahat Drive leading you north on Highway 1 towards even more adventures. The spectacular views of the Saanich Pen- insula and the Gulf Islands seen from

An adventure awaits you across the water on Southern Vancouver Island, a year-round destination for those seeking a mild, temperate climate, majestic views, unparalleled beauty, unlimited outdoor adventure, lush old-growth for- ests, a diversified and rich history and friendly people. Let the journey begin as you board a ferry at Tsawwassen (pronounced Ta-was-en or Sa-wa-sen depend- ing on whom you ask) on the west coast of British Columbia’s mainland, or by ferry from Port Angeles, Washington.

Victoria Immerse yourself in the magic of Victoria, British Columbia’s beautiful capital city. The inviting pulse of the city can be felt the moment you arrive, and the excitement increases as you find yourself surrounded by the old English charm of the Fairmont Em- press Hotel, the legislative buildings,

congestion of double-decker buses, horse-drawn carriages and fascinat- ed pedestrians who stroll the streets and walkways in the main area of the city, you won’t want to be driving a motorhome. Explore the city on foot, by bicycle or let one of the eager pedicab drivers show you some of the

“The spectacular views of the Saanich Peninsula and the Gulf Islands seen from the viewpoints along the way create some memorable photo opportunities.”

highlights. They can also direct you to where the best restaurants are for an appetizing meal. Victoria is a bicyclist’s dream, and by riding along the Seaside Cycling Route you will see why. It gives riders an immense appreciation for the Inner

preserved historic homes, inviting pubs, beautiful shops and a vibrant Inner Harbor, all well blended with modern influences. The best advice is to get settled at a campground or resort before heading into the busy downtown area. With the

26 . ESCAPEES | May/June 2015 | www.escapees.com