Beacon Hill Park, Victoria

The belle of the downtown Victoria ball, Beacon Hill Park is where locals come for a picturesque stroll and tourists come to be charmed. With its oceanfront positioning and prettily manicured urban park sprawl, Beacon Hill has been the city’s favourite green space since it was first established in 1882. And the best thing about city parks? They tend to be free – Beacon Hill Park being no exception. So, for all of you who love a bargain (and spot of tranquility, obvs) this attraction is a must.

But it’s not all green spaces and tempting trails in this park. Beacon Hill has long been a sacred place for the Native Lekwungen People of Vancouver Island. In fact, for thousands of years, this tribe used the land to cultivate native plants which paved the way for the park’s natural landscape as it stands today. Not only is the park now deemed to be archaeologically significant due to the rich native history that can be found here, but you’ll be able to spot one of the world’s largest totem poles whilst you wander too. See, sightseeing isn’t all about the urban cityscapes and limelight-stealing landmarks.

Covering over 200 acres of land, you’ll find everything from lakes, ponds, water fountains and perfectly pruned gardens in this city park. Looking for Victoria’s inner-city natural haven? You’ve found it.