The Oswego Hotel

Canadian Icons

Family Classic + 2 more + 3 more

Canada's greatest hits in one self-drive holiday.

14 days

from £5,795 pp

Canada's Maritime Magic

Wildlife & Nature Culture & History + 1 more + 2 more

Big skies, coastal charm & Canadian hospitality.

18 days

from £3,990 pp

The Cultures of Québec

Wildlife & Nature Culture & History + 1 more + 2 more

Whales & riverside towns from Montréal to Saguenay.

12 days

from £3,495 pp

Journey to the Polar Bears

Wildlife & Nature Off-the-beaten-track + 1 more + 2 more

Polar bears, sledge dogs & tundra rides through Canada’s north.

7 days

from £7,195 pp

Canada Fall Colours Road Trip

Romantic Wildlife & Nature + 1 more + 2 more

Autumn colours, scenic drives and coastal charm in eastern Canada.

14 days

from £2,995 pp

Ultimate British Columbia

Wildlife & Nature Off-the-beaten-track + 2 more + 3 more

An off-the-beaten-track journey along Canada’s wild west coast.

15 days

from £4,990 pp

Quirky excursions

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Victoria Bike Tours

Victoria is a city of neighbourhoods, and cycling offers a fantastic way to explore the historic and unique areas that surround the downtown core. Pedal your way through iconic landmarks such as historic Chinatown, the grand Craigdarroch Castle, and the serene Beacon Hill Park, with its colourful gardens and scenic trails. Take in the stunning views along the Dallas waterfront, where the ocean meets the horizon, and discover local favourites like the peaceful Moss Rock, the charming Cook Street Village with its boutique shops and cafés, and the vibrant artistic enclave of Fernwood, known for its murals and creative community spirit. As you cycle through Victoria’s picturesque streets, coastal trails, and vibrant neighbourhoods, you’ll experience the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and community life. The city’s compact size and bike-friendly layout make it easy for both casual riders and avid cyclists to get around. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking ocean views, hidden local gems, or a leisurely ride through tree-lined streets, Victoria’s cycling routes offer something for everyone. It won’t take long to see why Victoria has earned the moniker of "Most Livable City in Canada." Cycling here is more than just a way to get around—it’s an opportunity to connect with the city’s charm, culture, and unforgettable scenery.

Victoria – Ideas for Free Time

Victoria is home to a range of historic and cultural landmarks. The Royal British Columbia Museum is widely regarded as the province’s best museum, featuring natural history exhibits, a recreated early colonial Victoria street scene, and an excellent in-depth exhibit on the culture of the First Nations peoples of Vancouver Island. The Legislature Building and Government House are worth a visit for those interested in the city’s political history, while the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria showcases an impressive collection of both local and international artwork. For outdoor enthusiasts, a wildlife-watching or sightseeing trip is highly recommended. Take a boat or seaplane from the Inner Harbour to explore sweeping ocean vistas and, with luck, spot iconic marine mammals such as whales or seals. The Inner Harbour itself is a vibrant hub, dominated by the grand and historic Fairmont Empress Hotel, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a picturesque walkway along the waterfront. Just around the corner, Fisherman’s Wharf is a colourful and lively spot with floating homes, bustling docks, and kiosks where you can grab an ice cream or coffee while watching the fishing boats unload their catch. A short journey from downtown, Butchart Gardens is a must-visit, especially in the spring and summer when thousands of flowers are in bloom. These vibrant gardens attract a variety of butterflies, bees, and birds, offering a peaceful and colourful escape into nature. Victoria is also home to ‘Mile 0,’ the starting point of the 7,821-kilometre Trans-Canada Highway, which stretches all the way to Newfoundland on Canada’s east coast. While tackling the entire highway may be a dream for another day, getting your photo taken at Mile 0 is a fun way to mark the beginning of this iconic route.

A Taste of Victoria

Victoria is a haven for food lovers, and a guided walking food tour is one of the best ways to explore the city’s rich culinary scene and vibrant history. Combining historic charm with modern flavours, these tours take you through some of Victoria’s most iconic neighbourhoods, including Chinatown, Old Town, and downtown. Each tour typically includes 7 local foodie stops, offering 8-10 delicious samples of food and beverages that showcase the city’s diverse culinary offerings. You might enjoy farm-to-table dishes, South Indian specialties, authentic Mexican tacos, Thai dumplings, Cantonese baked buns, Middle Eastern street food, pastries, charcuterie, French macarons, and even decadent chocolate tastings. To complement the flavours, you may also get to sample local craft beer, BC wines, or other regional beverages. Please note, dishes may vary depending on availability, and vegetarian options are often available, though gluten allergies may not be accommodated. Along the way, you’ll explore historic sites such as the Victoria Public Market, Fan Tan Alley, Market Square, the Legislature Building, the Inner Harbour, the Royal Theatre, and Fort Street. These tours are led by expert local guides who share fascinating stories about Victoria’s early history and its evolution into a modern food destination. With light walking (approximately 45 minutes), these tours are accessible and wheelchair-friendly, making them an ideal way to uncover the hidden culinary gems of Victoria while soaking in its history and culture.