Only two months into 2017 and it’s already been a very interesting year. With all the non-stop news, you may be feeling the need to press pause, unplug for a moment and seek out some peace, quiet and serenity. With no shortage of cozy places to cuddle up in, excellent eats and fantastic sips, a weekend away to the charming city of Victoria, BC is just the ticket. Here are our five picks for creating the perfect and easy winter retreat.
1. Discover the Art of Romance
When it comes to romance, you can’t go wrong with the classics – luscious chocolates, incredible views of Victoria’s Inner Harbour and champagne chilling in an ice bucket. The Hotel Grand Pacific’s Romance Package provides you with all the essentials for a romantic evening.
If you really want to step it up a notch, treat your S.O. to a night out on the town. Head to the intimate Bodega Bar and share a delicious lineup of authentic tapas paired with a sherry flight. Before you call it a day, seek out a seat by the warm, glowing fireplace at Clive’s Classic Lounge and kick back and relax as you sip on one of their incredible cocktails.
2. Sip Award-Winning Wines
Warm your heart and soul with a trek to Vancouver Island’s world-renowned wine region on the Cowichan Valley Wine Country Tour. Soak in stunning views of old-growth rainforests, sparkling rivers, snow-capped mountains and the lush, open countryside as you make your way along quiet country backroads. And that’s just the start.
From there, it’s onto repeated fun as you sniff, swirl and tilt your glass while savoring superb sips at three boutique vineyards. Last, but not least, feast on a picnic basket full of delicious eats that pair perfectly with the region’s famous Orgeta wines.
3. Savor Inspired Cuisine
A lot of a good thing can be lovely, especially when it comes to sumptuous treats. Embark on a culinary adventure you can really sink your teeth into on the Victoria Food Tour. Embrace the rich, aromatic smells and tastes of Victoria’s greatest chefs and food artisans as you nosh on crispy quinoa cakes, spicy hot wings, delicate, melt-in-your-mouth macarons and more. Not only will you satiate your appetite for the finer things in life, but you will also be treated to another sweet reward – an arsenal of insider recommendations and hot spots to fuel your next visit.
4. Unwind with a Seaside Spa Getaway
Tranquil and serene, the whole vibe of the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s waterfront oasis screams relaxation and pampering. Slip on your swimsuit, grab a tall flute of sparkling wine and indulge in a little quality R&R as you rejuvenate in steaming hot, seaside mineral pools.
Warm up in the aptly named Snug Pub with a freshly poured pint and classic fish and chips. Afterward, stroll hand-in-hand on one of the many secluded walking trails that wind around Oak Bay pass lush gardens and historic mansions.
5. Cuddle Up with a Cup of Tea
If the weather outside is a bit dicey, retreat to the Fairmont Empress’ elegant, luxurious Lobby Lounge and give yourself the royal treatment with an indulgent tea. Cozy up on the plush couches, crack open the beautiful and weighty wooden tea menu and choose from 21 of the finest loose leaf teas that come paired with a slate of phenomenal goodies fit for a queen. Bonus points for popping down to the bold, brand-new Q Bar after your meal and capping your day off with one of their specialty cocktails (hello, North West Collins!).
No matter what your reason is for cozying up this season, Victoria is the perfect place to unwind, unplug and forget the world for a while. Whether you are sampling local wines or relaxing at the spa, you can create an escape that is nothing short of amazing.
