Vancouver Island

Built in 1893, the British Columbia Government Parliament Buildings were initially criticised as an unnecessary expense, but now constitute a major tourist attraction in Victoria, as well as serving as the legislative centre for the province.Designed by 25-year-old architect Francis Rattenbury (who also designed The Fairmont Empress Hotel), these beautiful buildings and exquisite grounds are situated at Victoria's Inner Harbour, close to many of Victoria's other main attractions.Various performances routinely take place in the grounds and visitors can enjoy the spectacular sight of the buildings at night, when more than 3,000 lights outlining the buildings create a fairytale picture. Tours of the buildings are available daily at regular intervals throughout the year and visitors can observe the House in session from the public galleries.

Address : 501 Belleville Street, Victoria

Website : www.leg.bc.ca

Telephone : (250) 387 5532

Opening times : Daily 9am-5pm

With well over a million visitors a year, the hundred-year-old Butchart Gardens remain a favourite and one of Vancouver Island's principal attractions. Situated about 14 miles (21km) north of Victoria, the gardens were begun in the early 1900s by Jennie Butchart in an abandoned limestone quarry owned by the family. Their fame soon spread and attracted thousands.55 acres are open to the public to be explored and visitors can wander the paths through exquisitely laid out gardens, including the Sunken Garden (the original garden started in the quarry), a Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Italian Garden.Spring and autumn are perhaps the best times to visit: the gardens become a riot of colour, although winter and summer hold their own delights. Every Saturday, from the beginning of July to the end of September, the Gardens are transformed by a dazzling fireworks show, as well as a recital on the self-playing, rare Aeolian Pipe Organ and the Night Illuminations light display.Other attractions and events in the park include an ice-skating rink and Twelve Days of Christmas display in December, and afternoon and evening shows and concerts in summer. Opening times and admission costs vary according to season so check the official website listed below for details.

Address : 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay

Website : www.butchartgardens.com

Telephone : (250) 652 4422

Opening times : Daily 9am-3.30pm

Admission : Vary according to season.

One of the iconic images of Victoria is the much loved and well-visited Fairmont Empress Hotel, a fully restored Edwardian treasure that has seen visits from royalty, celebrities, and travellers from around the world.Set on the banks of Victoria's Inner Harbour, the Empress is a grand and majestic building full of stories. It retains its Britishness through its traditional afternoon tea, a popular event with tourists and locals alike which began when the hotel opened in 1908.Reservations up to a week or two in advance are essential and the dress code is smart casual. The Empress is centrally located, close to the Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, the Victoria Convention Centre, and various shops and attractions.It also enjoys a golf course and spa. This 'Jewel of the Pacific' is a definite highlight of any visit to Victoria, and for those who can afford it, it is well worth a stay. Just be warned, you may receive a visit from one of the hotel ghosts.

Address : 721 Government Street, Victoria

Website : www.fairmont.com

Telephone : (502) 863 6310

Once a simple fishing and logging town on Vancouver Island, Tofino is swiftly becoming a popular holiday destination for travellers from around the globe. The resort enjoys natural beauty, a mild climate, and plenty of outdoor activities, including kayaking, whale watching, and fishing. In addition to hot springs and gorgeous beaches, it also serves as Canada's premier surfing spot.Tucked away at the entrance of the Clayoquot Sound, Tofino is home to the Pacific Rim National Park and islands with ancient primeval forests. Home to only about 2,000 locals, it serves as an ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.Hot Springs Cove, accessible only by air or sea, is open year round and visitors can soak in rock pools filled with boiling spring water cooled by ocean surf. Other popular sights include the Eik Cedar, an 800-year-old tree that was rescued by residents after it was condemned to be felled; the Tofino Botanical Gardens with acres of forest, shoreline, and gardens; and the Whale Centre Maritime Museum housing fascinating artefacts.The Wickannish Interpretive Centre, containing interesting information about the region and the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations, the area's original inhabitants, is well worth a visit. Tofino offers visitors the perfect combination natural beauty, fun activities, and relaxation.

Website : tourismtofino.com