Lucas CloutierMost people aren’t aware that castles aren’t just in Europe! In fact, 45 of them are in Canada and some of them are only a few hours away from Vancouver!
Whether you’re a history buff fascinated by castles or simply a traveler seeking unique experiences, this article is your ultimate companion to discovering the most enchanting castles in Vancouver.
- Explore the Rich History of Hatley Castle
- Wander around the Magnificent Craigdarroch Castle
- Immerse Yourself in Architectural Wonders at BC Parliament Buildings
- Experience a Journey Back in Time at Government House
- Marvel at the Panoramic Views from Fairmont Empress
- Admire the Castle on Savary
- Indulge in Opulent Surroundings at Fairmont Hotel
Explore the Rich History of Hatley Castle
Website: http://hatleycastle.com/
Address: 2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 5Y2, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-391-2600
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Constructed in 1908, Hatley Castle originally served as both a dormitory and mess hall for the Royal Roads Military College. Situated within Hatley Park in Victoria, it now functions as an administrative hub for Royal Roads University.
The architectural masterpiece was crafted by Victorian architect Samuel Maclure, boasting dimensions of 200 feet in length and 86 feet in width.
Surrounding the estate is a formidable wall crafted from local stone, complemented by an array of ancient trees that match the grandeur of the castle itself.
Access to the interior requires participation in a guided tour, priced at $25, which grants visitors entry to all main floor rooms while being regaled with intricate historical narratives throughout the hour-long journey.
| Pro tip: Additionally, visitors have the option to enjoy refreshments and snacks at a nearby café located outside the castle grounds. |
Wander around the Magnificent Craigdarroch Castle
Website: http://www.thecastle.ca/
Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3L5, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-592-5323
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Craigdarroch Castle stands as a quintessential example of a Victorian bonanza castle, epitomizing the opulent success sought by affluent North American industrialists during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Originally owned by industrialist Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish immigrant who amassed his wealth from coal mining on Vancouver Island, the castle became synonymous with the Dunsmuir family legacy.
Following Robert’s passing in 1889, his wife Joan inherited the estate and resided within the castle until her own demise in 1908.
A visit to Craigdarroch Castle offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Dunsmuir family, chronicling their accomplishments, relationships, and idiosyncrasies.
Admission to the castle is priced at $20, providing visitors with an immersive experience lasting approximately an hour, followed by a leisurely stroll through the surrounding neighborhood.
| Pro tip: Allow yourself a generous two-hour window if you’re inclined to thoroughly read and absorb all the information presented on the informative signs throughout the castle grounds. |
Immerse Yourself in Architectural Wonders at BC Parliament Buildings
Website: https://www.leg.bc.ca/
Address: 501 Belleville St., Victoria, BC V8V 2L8, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-387-3046
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 4:30pm
Constructed in 1897, the BC Parliament Buildings stand proudly as a Richardsonian Romanesque structure, nestled amidst manicured lawns, adorned with elegant fountains and statues, gracing the southern shore of the Inner Harbour.
Regarded as one of Victoria’s architectural gems, the BC Parliament Buildings offer visitors an immersive experience into the political history and inner workings of the assembly through guided tours.
These tours provide captivating insights into the democratic processes at play within the hallowed halls, offering a unique opportunity to witness democracy in action during live sessions.
Stepping inside this historic institution evokes a profound sense of appreciation for the democratic ideals that have shaped the province of British Columbia.
For those visiting in the morning, exploring not only the front but also the surroundings of the Parliament building is highly recommended.
| Pro tip: As the day transitions into night, the Parliament building becomes a beacon of light, illuminating the surrounding area with a romantic ambiance. |
Experience a Journey Back in Time at Government House
– Media credit: tomasz.jedrasik
Website: https://ltgov.bc.ca/
Address: 1401 Rockland Ave, Victoria, BC V8S 1V9, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-387-2080
Operating hours: Sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week
Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s Rockland neighborhood, the Estate of the Lieutenant Governor has been home to three government houses since its establishment in 1865.
Spanning 14.6 hectares, the estate boasts a diverse landscape, featuring 8.9 hectares of rare Garry oak ecosystem and 5.7 hectares of meticulously manicured formal gardens.
The estate offers breathtaking scenery, including a charming pond, impeccably maintained gardens, scenic trails lined with majestic oak trees, and several lookout points offering awe-inspiring views.
In 2022, it earned distinction as one of Canada’s 100 Garden Moments by the Canadian Garden Council.
| Pro tip: During the summer months, the herb garden becomes a haven for bees, with beehives nestled nearby, creating a delightful buzz of activity. |
Marvel at the Panoramic Views from Fairmont Empress
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/empress-victoria/
Address: 721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-384-8111
Operating hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Perched elegantly above Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbor and mere moments from the Parliament Buildings, this legendary hotel epitomizes luxury, offering an ideal setting for indulgent getaways or simply enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea.
Constructed in the early 1900s as part of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s vision to create chateau-style hotels, The Empress pays homage to Queen Victoria, who held the title of Empress of India during the final decade of her reign.
Embodying the classic Chateau Style commonly found in railway hotels throughout the country, The Empress Hotel’s design seamlessly integrates elements of Tudor, Gothic, and Edwardian architectural influences.
| Pro tip: Guests can delight in live music performances at the hotel’s lounge while savoring a selection of drinks and cocktails. |
Admire the Castle on Savary
Website: https://www.thecastlesavaryisland.com/
Address: 1544 Vancouver Blvd, Lund, BC V0N 2G0, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-816-6699
Established in 2001, the Castle on Savary offers a whimsical retreat in the form of a mini-castle, where you and your friends can indulge in a royal experience for an entire weekend.
Over two decades, this enchanting castle has undergone a gradual evolution, transforming into a haven of joy and entertainment. Inside, guests are treated to a bamboo bar, pool table, sauna, and a projector.
For those seeking outdoor adventure, the castle boasts an impressive array of amenities, including over 300 board games, bicycles for both adults and kids, and various outdoor sporting equipment, including snorkeling gear.
Whether lounging indoors or exploring the surrounding area, the Castle on Savary promises an unforgettable escape fit for royalty.
| Pro tip: The Castle on Savary offers convenient access to two stunning beaches: Sutherland Beach on the south side of the island and Mermaid Beach on the north side. |
Indulge in Opulent Surroundings at Fairmont Hotel
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/hotel-vancouver/
Address: 900 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-684-3131
Operating hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Since its grand opening in 1939, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver has stood as a timeless historical landmark in the heart of Vancouver.
This majestic 17-story skyscraper showcases a captivating blend of Châteauesque and Italianate-style architecture, exuding unparalleled elegance and grandeur.
In addition to its architectural splendor, the hotel seamlessly incorporates elements of Renaissance-style design, evident in the intricate relief sculptures and whimsical gargoyles adorning its exterior.
Inside, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is adorned with stunning interior decorative works by acclaimed artists such as Olea Marion Davis, Charles Marega, and Valentine Shabief, adding a touch of artistic flair to its opulent ambiance.
| Pro tip: During the festive season, there are magical displays of differently themed holiday trees throughout the hotel. |
