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Victoria’s Heritage Spells Romance
Tuesday, September 29th, 2009 by Cheryl MacKinnon
IN THE BEGINNING
Victoria, British Columbia sits upon the traditional land belonging to the Lekwungen people, known today as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations. Next time you visit Victoria’s inner harbour, pick up the brochure entitled “Signs of Lekwungen”. Look for the seven markers which hi-light places of cultural significance related to the Lekwungen. Created by Songhees artist, Butch Dick, the special carvings depict spindle whorls used traditionally in wool spinning.
Modern Victoria’s downtown core is alive with an eclectic mix of shopping, dining and entertainment outlets justly set amidst a rich backdrop of heritage buildings. Visitors and locals alike are warmly invited to tour the area, learning details of the early days spent building British Columbia’s capital city. Ranked as one of North America’s top twenty downtown destinations by Conde Nast Traveller, here’s the reason why. The growing revitalization of Victoria’s downtown neighbourhoods is evident around most every corner. “Every so often, pause and look up” shares Ken Kelly, General Manager for the Downtown Victoria Business Association during a stroll along Government Street. “The buildings are unique unto themselves, reflecting their individual brands in design, finishings and colour.” Oh my, they are indeed! An appreciative gaze at the rich detailing on one, which is snuggly tucked in by another proudly boasting a freshly painted façade and we’re positively captivated by the historical charm and character.
If you haven’t been for a visit in some time, you will be decidedly gratified with your decision to steal away for a few days to this lovely city!
Heritage Romance
Stately italian elegance minutes from downtown Victoria.
5 star Organic cuisine
The exquisite, adult-oriented Villa Marco Polo Inn located in the stylish neighbourhood of Rockland in Victoria, is all elegance, history and relaxation. Originally built in 1923 as a wedding gift to a young bride, the Canada Select Five Star appointed Villa Marco Polo is once again a pleasing and particularly popular locale for all things romantic. The gorgeous Italianate gardens play host almost year-round (due in part to our temperate climate here on the west coast), to weddings and anniversary parties which speak of intimacy and love. The flow and furnishings of the home’s public rooms invite whispered conversation and relaxation; the enormous guest suites offer peaceful, private retreats within the luxuriously appointed king-sized beds and large, comfortable furniture. Middle Eastern influences abound, right down to the charming basket of slippers for use by guests; thoughtfully placed near the front door. Persian carpets adorn the gleaming hardwood floors, classically elegant floral arrangements are dramatically placed throughout the main living areas. And while the Inn is located only minutes from downtown Victoria, the sounds of the city…or any jarring noise for that matter, are banished.
Reflection of History
Rejuvenate body and soul in this penthouse spa
Tread up the beautifully carpeted stairwell to the 3rd floor of the Villa Marco Polo and enter a haven of peaceful tranquility. Penthouse Spa Hamaam is a warm, private setting where you can indulge in a massage treatment for two, a relaxing facial and manicure/pedicure, a few easy yoga stretches, or simply sip your tea while gazing out over the sparkling waters of the Straight of Juan de Fuca. If it seems most everything has been considered in ensuring each guest is well taken care of, it has. From the environmentally sensitive spa products locally sourced and produced, including seaweed harvested off Whiffen Spit on the southern coast of Vancouver Island; to the combination bamboo and green cotton towels and incredibly soft bamboo blankets used in the treatment rooms, this is a like staying at a well appointed boutique hotel…instead, you are fortunate to be in the sumptuous surroundings of the Villa Marco Polo.
Explore Local Garden Heritage
The Garden Lady, as I’ve fondly dubbed Joan Looy, is just that. Whether it’s a look behind a spectacular private residence’s front gate in Rockland, to a leisurely ‘walk about’ through some of Victoria’s best loved public gardens, Joan’s knowledge and deep appreciation for the greener things in life is evident. Touring in small groups from one to six persons, Joan imparts the history of Victoria as seen through the eyes of gardeners and their gardens during her Victorian Garden Tours.
Hatley Park is biologically diverse, with a wide range of growing conditions from dry land gravel to wetlands.
Royal Roads University, Hatley Park National Historic Site deserves at least three hours to fully appreciate the exquisite Rose, Japanese and Italian gardens surrounding this lush 535 acre Edwardian estate. Winding pathways take visitors on a breath-taking tour through what might be best described as ‘garden rooms’ lovingly created by human touch, blessed by Mother Nature. Allow time to tour the Castle built in 1908 by former British Columbia Premier, James Dunsmuir. The romantic views of the gardens from within will inspire even a modest green thumb.
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