Affectionately referred to as the ‘City of Gardens’, Victoria is often regarded as one of Canada’s most vibrant places to call home. With a growing population and a wealth of opportunities, the city has managed to maintain its small-town charm while keeping a modern edge, captivating would-be homebuyers from across Canada and abroad. Whether drawn to Victoria’s recent tech surge or its revered slower-pace, we’re highlighting our top five neighbourhoods for first-time buyers.
Esquimalt
Drive time to Victoria: 15 minutes
Thanks to its strong ties to the Salish Sea, Esquimalt fulfills the romantic ideals of life on Vancouver Island. Abundant in spectacular beaches– such as Spiral and Taylor Beach– and a wealth of parks including Saxe Point, the community has established itself as a top choice of outdoor enthusiasts, eager to dwell among land and sea. Additionally, this community offers a great mix of breweries and coffee shops, a perfect way to cap off a day spent at Gorge Vale Golf Club or fishing on the strait of San Juan de Fuca.
Did You Know
Every year in May, Esquimalt comes together for its annual Buccaneer Days, a celebration that has been a focal point of the community since 1939. Awakening at an early hour to a blaring “Wakey! Wakey!” call, dozens of community members transform into their best pirate and naval attire vying to take home the prize for best costume. An event with fun activities designed for all ages, it's Equimalt’s event of the year.
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Oak Bay
Drive time to Victoria: 10 minutes
Exuding timeless charm and natural beauty, Oak Bay is renowned for its picturesque coastline, lush green spaces, and historic architecture. Quaint streets lead to artisanal shops, gourmet cafes, and troves of local treasures that highlight the community’s colourful arts scene. Ideally located steps from wind-swept beaches, Oak Bay offers plenty of recreational activities for nature lovers and the highly sought-after laid-back coastal lifestyle.
Did You Know
One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Greater Victoria, Oak Bay boasts a number of heritage homes. The oldest heritage home, Tod House can be found along Heron Street, a display of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s early farm settlement style. Originally constructed in 1850 by John Tod, a prominent fur trader at the time, Tod House continues to be a private residential home.
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View Royal
Drive time to Victoria: 15 minutes
Earning its regal moniker for its scenic views of Esquimalt Harbour and Portage Inlet, View Royal continues to draw favour from residents old and new. Home to 70 municipal parks and over 25 KM of trails, it's a wonderful community for exploration and play. The multi-use Galloping Goose trail winds past hidden lakes, rugged wilderness, quiet coves, easily accessible by foot or on a bike. For a full day by the water, make your way to Thetis Lake to enjoy its sandy beach and a refreshing dip in the water.
Did You Know
View Royal is home to one of Canada’s national historic sites, the Craigflower Manor & Schoolhouse. Now the oldest surviving schoolhouse in Western Canada, the historical landmark preserves the emblem of the community’s 19th-century beginnings. Today, the schoolhouse serves as a museum sharing the story of Victoria’s colonial history.
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Saanich East
Drive time to Victoria: 10 minutes
The outermost end of Saanich East opens onto an expansive stretch of coastline with views of the Haro Strait and San Juan Islands. Appealing to growing families and nature-enthusiasts, the community comprises a mosaic of 170 parks, beaches, and trails, offering more of these outdoor amenities per capita than any other municipality in all of British Columbia. This makes the community a scenic setting for those in search of fresh air, coastal views, and young professionals working remotely.
Did You Know
Just beyond the back roads of Saanich East, the open landscape comes to life with small wineries like Rathjen Cellars, traditional Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, and the artisanal Devine Distillery. In the summertime, it becomes a wonderful way to spend a staycation, savouring local flavours from the seaside orchards to create a true farm-to-table experience. Stop for an al fresco lunch and fill your basket at the farm stands along your way.
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Sooke
Drive time to Victoria: 40 minutes
Marked by its town motto, ‘Where the rainforest meets the sea’, Sooke is a postcard of rugged coastline braided by arbutus trees. Surrounded by lush forests, rivers, beaches, and trails, the community attracts folks from across the island and the country. Whether sailing, kayaking, fishing or whale watching capture your fancy, there is an abundance of opportunity waiting at the harbour.
Did You Know
On the banks of Sooke River where the river water slows to settle, you’ll arrive at the Sooke Potholes. This popular swimming spot took form during the last ice age, carving deep, polished pools into the river’s bedrock. Year round, travelers and locals alike travel the trails to explore the clear emerald pools and offer a scenic and tranquil spot for a picnic.
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If you’re considering making the move to Vancouver Island, contact a rennie advisor today.
