South of the cape in Vancouver is the small port island of Victoria. The capital of British Columbia - so it is known to this day. At that time, the island could become the main tourist center. It received its victorious name in honor of the eponymous great British queen in 1843. She in the period from 1867 to 1902 ruled Canada.
About the island
Victoria Island (Canada) occupies almost 220 km 2 . The territorial width varies in the region of 300-600 km, and the length does not exceed 500 km. The population here varies from 78-82 thousand people. The landscape is presented in the form of low plains and small mountains, the highest of which is no more than 2200 meters. Numerous straits and bays that separate the capital of British Columbia from other areas, dense virgin pine and deciduous forests, equipped park areas with gardens and unique views of the Olympic mountain peaks make Victoria Island special for locals and tourists coming there. It is really worth a visit.
Climate
The climate of the territory is Mediterranean, mild throughout the year, which is why about 4 million vacationers from all over the world come here in any season. The average temperature in the summer is +18 ... + 22 , and in winter it rarely drops below 0 . Starting in February, the island of Victoria is shrouded in flowering of the local flora, adding to such a beautiful place even more attractiveness.
Research
The very first explorations of the unknown region began with its northern and western borders by the famous scientist Juan Perez in 1774. A year later, no less famous explorer James Cook joined him. The most significant place of Victoria Island - the fort (which is now a favorite place of pilgrimage for tourists) - was erected here in 1841.
The year 1858 was marked by an amazing event: places for gold mining were discovered here. After the reserves of the natural element were depleted, the island of Victoria began to serve as the base of the navy. Now it is the most popular resort center in Vancouver and Canada with a central point - the port of Inner Harbor.
Tourism
You can have fun on the island of Victoria, going to explore the local attractions of a natural and architectural nature, as well as getting acquainted with the diverse flora and fauna of the warmest Canadian region. The most magnificent and ancient architectural monuments include Craigderroch Castle, the House of Emily Carr (a famous Canadian artist) and the Royal Museum of British Columbia. Vacationers with children should definitely visit the local zoos and aquariums. For example, the bug zoo farm, where you can get acquainted with a variety of insect species from all over the island. Or a bewitching aquarium with an abundance of representatives of the underwater fauna of the coast of Victoria. It looks like a ship that once wrecked. Each tourist in the summer season can admire killer whales, swimming almost to the shore. And in winter, numerous species of whales sail to the warm coast of an object such as Victoria Island. Here you can find entertainment that will appeal to absolutely every tourist.
Population
Judging by the reviews of travelers, all guests enjoy the hospitality of the indigenous population. It is worth noting that the average age of people living here is about 40 years. In this regard, the crime rate is quite high, so you should still be careful and not engage in dialogue with completely strangers. In total, about 4 million tourists come to Victoria Island annually, and certainly there is a good fellow traveler from their country among them. And it is best to come in the company of a guide and tour guides.