A short drive Northeast from Victoria, Saanich’s scenic headlands will greet you with its lush rolling hills and pastures. Its rural roots are preserved by local farmers who continue to grow local produce today. However, the region has broadened beyond its ‘farm fresh’ heritage with destination wine tours, a renowned book lover's haven, forested bike trails, and the world-famous Butchart Gardens. A day in Saanich could never cover all there is to appreciate and discover, but we’ve curated some of our favourite highlights to experience in the region.

The ‘Provence’ of Vancouver Island

Travel the back roads of Saanich to explore an abundance of vineyards that have contributed to the region’s reputation as the island’s own ‘Provence’. Sip and savour the artisanal wines that reflect the unique terroir of Saanich at Church & State Winery, and Symphony Vineyards. For those more partial to spirits, you’ll also find craft distillers, Devine Distillery, with artisanal whiskies, gins, and rums with coastal flavour twists. Choose your favourite bottles from your tasting tour for an al fresco lunch in a neighbouring meadow while you enjoy the pastoral views, or home to share among friends.

A landmark for bibliophiles

Bibliophiles from well beyond the island have made passage to the coastal town of Sidney. Within seven blocks, 12 independent bookshops welcome book lovers to pour through a trove of rare and antique finds. The Haunted Bookshop is the island’s oldest antiquarian bookstore, and a maze of cabinets and shelves where collectibles and modern paperbacks fulfill any taste. Take in that sweet smell of centuries of thumbed-through pages as you stroll from shop to shop with a hot drink in hand and relish some quiet time spent in Canada’s only Booktown.

Bikepacking through Saanich

The beauty of Saanich spanning from rocky shores to rural acreages has gained a reputation amongst cyclists. Whether you enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the forested trails or you like to test your speeds on the seaside touring route, the region’s terrain is best explored by bike. For a picturesque ride winding through the BC wilderness, make your way to the Galloping Goose Trail. Once a freight railway line, this 55km trail system reaches from Sooke to Victoria. You can easily spend a full day exploring the Galloping Goose, stopping to enjoy views of the Sooke Basin, Cordova Bay Beach, and Swan Lake.

A history of flower power

Botanists and nature lovers alike can spend hours strolling through the world-famous gardens that call Saanich home. Notably, the 119-year-old Butchart Gardens, with a sprawling 55-acres of meticulously landscaped lawns and gardens have earned the landmark a world-renowned destination, with blooms cycling with the seasons and changing the landscape of its expanse year-round. Complete your visit with a traditional tea service served at their Dining Room Restaurant, the original Butchart family residence. If you’d prefer to stay clear of the crowds in high season, Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary nearby is a serene reserve of wetlands, meadows, and oak forests. Explore alongside one of the sanctuary’s stewards for a workshop or field trip to learn about the landscapes, plants, and wildlife. 



Saanich is teeming with natural beauty and character that hearkens to its history and looks to its future. For those seeking out the slower pace of life beyond Vancouver Island’s larger urban centres, a day spent exploring Saanich is sure to capture the imagination. Contact a rennie advisor today to learn more about living in Saanich.