The day prior, our tour guide Brett tried to get us into Government House. He pulled in and told the parking valet that we were going to just nip in for a quick look. “Oh no you are not”, said the gentlemen. They were hosting a VIP event and wondered how we even made it onto the property. On this last full day in Victoria and with our own set of wheels, we revisited the grounds. I most wanted to see the gardens, which were exquisite.

Prince William and Princess Catherine have been over night guests to the BC Lieutenant Governor’s home.

Government House gardens were still green and lush, even without the peak of the summer’s blossoms.

We had also driven by Craigdarroch Castle the day prior, but I had not been able to capture its slendour with my camera. That morning provided a second look.

It is said to be “Canada’s Castle”, trumping Toronto’s Casa Loma, I presume.

It was a short drive, but a long search for parking at the Empress Hotel. Their flowers were still at their peak. We walked passed the former lobby which now houses the tea room where an extravagant tea spread is served daily. It was tempting but not worth the investment (IMHO). I have a good friend back home who is British and who I could have High Tea with, any time.

The Empress is certainly a grand hotel though.

So too is the provincial Legislature, just kiddie corner from the hotel on Victoria’s renowned harbour.

While we visited the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, a gentleman conducting a private tour, was listing the accolades of Canada’s David Foster who not only produced albums for Celine Dion (that is who accompanied her on piano at the closing ceremonies of this summer’s Olympics) but also Michael Bublé, Bryan Adams and (not a Canadian) but my fav singer in the world-Josh Groban and my second fave male singer-Kenny Loggins.

We found Oak Bay’s Snug Pub were Happy Hour was well underway. It proved to be our last indulgence of truffle fries!

D had indulged me all day with destinations and stops of my choosing so I asked him to decide about our last visit. It was across town, to Driftwood Craft Brewery. Being a Crat Beer aficionado he had heard of their delicious offerings for a number of years. We enjoyed a second snack of yummy dumplings and called it a day.

Kath’s quote: “Don‘t cry because it‘s over. Smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss

Love never fails.

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