Nature in the City – Outdoor Escapes Without Leaving Town

You don’t have to leave Victoria to feel surrounded by nature. Whether you’re into cliffside walks, ocean breezes, garden strolls or forest trails, the outdoors is always within reach. Here’s how to get your fresh-air fix right from your hotel base.

Dallas Road Waterfront Trail

One of Victoria’s most iconic walks — hugging the shoreline from the breakwater to Clover Point. Breathe in ocean air, watch kite surfers, and spot cruise ships heading to Alaska.

Ogden Point Breakwater

Ogden Point breakwater is a popular spot to watch the sunset on Victoria

A concrete pier stretching nearly a kilometre into the Salish Sea. Walk the breakwater for open water views and close encounters with sea lions, jellyfish, and the occasional harbour seal.

Beacon Hill Park

Lake in sunny summer weather in Beacon Hill park, Victoria BC

Lush and sprawling, this 200-acre park blends manicured gardens, hidden trails, ponds, and even wild peacocks. Walk from the Inner Harbour in under 15 minutes and spend hours exploring.

The Butchart Gardens

Spectacular Sunken Garden at Butchart Gardens, Victoria, BC. Photo by Mark Raptapolus on Unsplash.

Technically just outside the city, but this National Historic Site is a must. Immaculately designed gardens, meandering paths, and seasonal floral displays that are different every visit.

Galloping Goose Regional Trail

Galloping Goose Regional Trail by Emily Norton on iStock

A multi-use trail that starts in downtown Victoria and stretches all the way to Sooke. Ideal for a morning jog, afternoon bike ride, or longer nature escape through forest, farmland, and urban stretches.

Clover Point Park

Friends having lunch on beach at Clover Point, Victoria, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Photo by dbstockphoto on iStock.

A windy viewpoint at the southern edge of Dallas Road with wide ocean views and open grassy fields. Great for kite flying, storm watching, or just sitting and letting your brain breathe.

Victoria Beyond the Guidebooks

Stay in the know with our Victoria Insider blog. Discover the latest happenings, seasonal attractions, and insider tips to make the most of your visit to our beautiful harbour city.

city guides

Local guide-books reveal Victoria’s hidden gems and must-see coastal experiences.

Events Calendar

Stay updated on Victoria’s vibrant festivals, markets, concerts, and seasonal celebrations year-round.

Day Trips & Tours

From whale watching to Gulf Island hopping, explore Vancouver Island’s treasures on an easy day trip or two.

Walkability Map

Discover world-class attractions minutes from our door: dining, shopping, gardens, and landmarks.

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