Things To Do
in View Royal
View Royal is a picturesque town located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its beautiful parks, waterfront trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The town offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
View Royal also has a rich history, with heritage sites and cultural landmarks to explore.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic multi-use trail that spans over 55 kilometers connecting View Royal to Victoria, perfect for walking, biking, and horseback riding.
A beautiful park featuring hiking trails, swimming beaches, and scenic views of the lake, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and picnickers.
A community park offering playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families and local events.
A serene spot for kayaking, canoeing, and enjoying nature, surrounded by walking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Offering hiking trails that challenge adventurers with varied terrain and stunning views, perfect for outdoor hiking enthusiasts.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2.50 - $3.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Thetis Lake Regional Park, enjoying the serene scenery. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of the lakes and surrounding trails.
Head over to Victoria Golf Club for a relaxing lunch at their clubhouse while soaking in stunning views of the ocean. After lunch, play a round of golf or walk the nearby beaches.
Finish your day with a peaceful picnic at View Royal Park. Watch the sunset as you unwind amidst nature.
Kick off your morning with a hike on the trails of Gore Park which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can spot various wildlife along the way.
Spend your afternoon kayaking at Thetis Lake, exploring its calm waters and beautiful surroundings. Rent equipment from a local shop and enjoy an adventure on the lake.
Enjoy dinner at a local eatery in View Royal, where you can find delicious seafood dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including parks and waterfront views.
- Close proximity to Victoria, providing access to urban amenities.
- A tight-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Access to multiple outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and kayaking.
- A relatively low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in British Columbia.
- Limited job opportunities within the town; many residents commute to Victoria.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Can experience significant rainfall during the winter months.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options than larger cities.
Places to Visit in View Royal
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Thetis Lake and the surrounding mountains, perfect for landscape photography and nature shots.
A lovely park with picturesque views, featuring a large pond and walking trails, ideal for sunset photography.
A historic site that provides charming views of the Craigflower Bridge and the Gorge Waterway, perfect for both history buffs and photographers.
Situated nearby, this golf club offers breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline, making it a great spot for capturing scenic landscape photos.
A short drive away, it features panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, ideal for adventurous photographers seeking natural landscapes.
Food in View Royal
View Royal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salmon Candy is a local delicacy made by curing and smoking strips of salmon. It offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Must-Try!
Bannock, a type of flatbread, is a staple in indigenous cuisine in View Royal. It's often served with various toppings or as a side dish to complement main courses.
The Nanaimo Bar, a sweet dessert named after the nearby city of Nanaimo, is a must-try treat consisting of layers of crumbly base, custard-flavored icing, and a slick chocolate topping.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The View Royal Farmers' Market is a vibrant hub for local produce, honey, artisanal bread, and other delectable treats. Visitors can also enjoy live music and food trucks offering a variety of street food.
Look out for the Indigenous food truck serving traditional dishes such as bannock with locally sourced toppings, elk or bison burgers, and delicious indigenous fusion cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
View Royal is located in a beautiful natural setting, and residents value the preservation of green spaces. Ensure to respect local parks and natural areas by following designated paths and disposing of waste responsibly.
Being actively involved in the community is important. Attend local events, support local businesses, and participate in neighborhood activities to foster a strong sense of belonging and respect among residents.
Understanding and respecting the history and culture of Indigenous peoples in the region is crucial. Acknowledge their contributions and be mindful of cultural practices, and consider learning about local Indigenous history and support Indigenous-led initiatives.
Safety
Tipping in View Royal
Ensure a smooth experience
In View Royal, as in much of Canada, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is typically understood that customers should tip around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, depending on the level of service received. Tipping is also common for other services, such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. However, the exact amount can vary based on personal preferences and the quality of service.
Payment practices in View Royal reflect those in most of Canada. The majority of businesses accept multiple forms of payment including cash, debit, and credit cards. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are increasingly common. In service industries, customers are often encouraged to pay their bills at the table, or at designated payment stations, and electronic payment is widely accepted to facilitate quick transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in View Royal usually spans from March to May, with temperatures gradually warming up. Expect blooming flowers, particularly in local gardens and parks. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking with various trails becoming accessible after winter.
Summer lasts from June to August, bringing warm temperatures and longer days. Expect a vibrant atmosphere with local festivals, outdoor events, and plenty of opportunities for water activities around nearby lakes and beaches. This is the peak tourist season.
Fall, from September to November, offers beautiful autumn foliage and mild weather. Expect crisp air and ideal conditions for hiking. This season is also perfect for enjoying local harvest events and autumn festivals.
Winter months, from December to February, can be rainy and cold, but temperatures are generally mild compared to other regions. Expect fewer tourists, and it's a good time for quiet hikes and enjoying the winter scenery. Some parks may be less accessible due to rain.
View Royal at Night
Hiking in View Royal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering beautiful views of the Saanich Peninsula and the Gulf Islands, with well-maintained trails suitable for various hiking levels.
A popular hiking destination with various trails around two lakes, swimming opportunities, and lush forested areas.
Features a network of trails through mature forests, ideal for hiking and observing wildlife.
Known for its stunning waterfalls and towering trees, offering multiple hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
Offers a range of trails that lead through diverse ecosystems, including views of the surrounding areas from elevated terrains.
A relatively easy trail that provides access to the picturesque Sooke Hills and is perfect for families and casual hikers.
Aiports
How to reach View Royal by plane.
Located about 24 kilometers northeast of View Royal, YYJ serves as the primary airport for the Greater Victoria area.
Approximately 100 kilometers north of View Royal, YVR is the main international airport serving Vancouver and the surrounding region.
Located about 60 kilometers south of View Royal, BLI provides a smaller international airport option with various flights to the U.S. and beyond.
About 210 kilometers southeast of View Royal, SEA is one of the largest airports in the Pacific Northwest, serving as a major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This demographic represents a significant portion of View Royal's population, reflecting an aging community.
A considerable number of residents fall within this age group, contributing to the workforce and community activities.
This group includes young professionals and families, actively participating in local development and social services.
Comprising a vital segment of the community, this demographic includes school-aged children and adolescents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a widely played sport in View Royal, with numerous local teams and leagues for various age groups and skill levels.
Ice hockey enjoys a strong following in View Royal, with local rinks and youth leagues offering opportunities for players of all ages.
Lacrosse is a popular summer sport in the region, with community teams and events promoting participation and skill development.
Basketball is commonly played in schools and community centers, with various leagues and programs available.
Running is a popular recreational activity in View Royal, with local trails and parks providing ideal settings for runners of all levels.
Cycling is well-supported in View Royal, with many bike paths and trails catering to both casual riders and serious cyclists.
Golfing is a favorite pastime, with several golf courses available for residents to enjoy the sport in a scenic environment.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting View Royal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
View Royal boasts numerous restaurants and cafes offering diverse vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that those with plant-based diets can explore the local culinary scene with ease.
Many eateries in View Royal provide gluten-free alternatives, including dedicated gluten-free bakeries and restaurants that accommodate gluten-free dietary needs.