Introduction
Are you trying to figure out how to honor Victoria’s Day this year? If so, you’re not the only one. Queen Victoria, who ruled Great Britain and Ireland for the majority of the 19th century, is honored on Victoria Day, a federally recognized public holiday in Canada. Since at least 1845, Canadians have celebrated the holiday on May 24, which was Victoria’s actual birthday. It always happens on the Monday between May 18 and May 24 (inclusive), which means it will be May 22 in 2023 and May 20 in 2024.
In addition to honoring the legendary British monarch, Victoria Day also marks the formal birthday of the reigning monarch of Canada (though historically, that occasion was celebrated in Canada on each monarch’s real birthday). In Quebec, Victoria Day is celebrated as National Patriots’ Day in honor of the freedom fighters who participated in the Lower Canada Rebellion of 1837–1838 and battled against British colonial control.
Victoria Day is also unofficially considered the start of the summer season in Canada. Traveling to Canada now is the ideal way to experience its natural splendor and cultural richness. You may unwind, discover new locations, and have fun with your family and friends by going on a long weekend break. Every traveler can find a destination in Canada, whether they favor cities, lakes, mountains, or both.
In this blog post, we will list some of the best destinations for the long weekend in Canada. We will include information about each location’s unique features, available activities, and lodging options. We hope this motivates you to book your Victoria Day vacation as soon as possible and enjoy this occasion to the fullest.
BC’s Victoria
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia and the city that bears the holiday’s name is a picturesque place with a fascinating past. You may take in the picturesque gardens and seafront, the parliament buildings, and the Victoria Day parade. On Vancouver Island, you can also go hiking, kayaking, or whale watching for some adventure.
What to do in Victoria
Watch the Victoria Day parade:
This parade, which includes marching bands, floats, clowns, and other performers, is one of the biggest and oldest in Canada. At nine in the morning, the parade begins on Douglas Street and ends at Humboldt Street.
Visit the parliament buildings:
The British Columbia legislature is housed in these magnificent neo-baroque structures. You can either explore on your own or join a free guided tour. Don’t overlook the Queen Victoria statue in the front yard.
Visit the castles: Victoria has two castles that are open to the public:
Hatley Castle and Craigdarroch Castle. Victorian-era Craigdarroch Castle is a mansion with opulent decor and artwork on display. A military college and movie location, Hatley Castle is a Tudor-style castle.
Enjoy the gardens:
Because of its extensive floral displays and green areas, Victoria is referred to as the “City of Gardens”. Butchart Gardens, Beacon Hill Park, Abkhazi Garden, and Government House Gardens are a few of the most well-known gardens.
Enjoy the waterfront:
Victoria boasts a beautiful harbor with lots of things to do and see. Shopping at neighborhood markets and boutiques, dining at waterfront establishments, and taking in street entertainers and artists are all possible while strolling along the Inner Harbour boardwalk.
Go whale watching:
One of the best spots in Canada to watch whales in their natural environment is Victoria. The marine life you can observe includes orcas, humpbacks, minkes, and other species. You can go on a whale-watching excursion.
Go kayaking:
Kayaking the Victoria coastline is an additional water-based pastime. You have the option of renting a kayak or going on a tour with a guide to view undiscovered coves, islets, lighthouses, and animals.
Go hiking:
You can go hiking on one of the island’s many trails if you want to discover more of the natural beauty. Trails like the Goldstream Provincial Park Trail and Mount
Banff, Alberta
Banff is a picturesque alpine town encircled by the magnificent Banff National Park and one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Canada. In the beautiful surroundings, you may do hiking, biking, rafting, bungee jumping, or just unwind in the hot springs. Additionally, you can take your dog on some of the park’s dog-friendly trails.
What to do in Banff
Hike in Banff National Park:
There are nearly 1,600 kilometers of trails in Banff National Park for hikers of all skill levels. On foot, you can investigate glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife. The Lake Louise Trail, Johnston Canyon Trail, and Sunshine Meadows Trail are a few of the most well-known paths.
Bike in Banff National Park:
Bike on some of the paved or gravel roads and trails in Banff National Park if you like to cycle. You may either rent a bike or go on a tour with a guide to some of the best places for riding. Bow Valley Parkway, Tunnel Mountain Road, and Legacy Trail are a few of the busiest roads.
Raft in Banff National Park:
You may raft on some of the rivers and rapids in Banff National Park for some heart-pounding excitement. You can select from a range of durations and difficulties, from leisurely floating to exhilarating whitewater. A rafting excursion can be scheduled through Wild Water Adventures.
Bungee jump in Banff National Park:
You can bungee jump from a 50-meter bridge over the Kicking Horse River if you’re feeling daring. As you take in the sights of the river and the mountains, you will experience a free fall and a bounce back. A bungee jump can be scheduled through Wild Water Adventures.
Relax in Banff Hot Springs:
You may relax in Banff’s natural hot springs after a long day of outdoor activity. Your body and mind will be calmed and healed by the water’s mineral content. As you soak in the warm water, you can take in the views of the mountains and the stars.
Laurentians, Quebec
The Laurentians, an area of undulating hills, lakes, and woods north of Montreal, are the ideal location to get away from the city and appreciate nature. In addition to hiking, biking, and golfing in the verdant surroundings, you may canoe, kayak, fish, or swim in the pristine waterways. You can also visit some of the picturesque nearby towns and villages, including Saint-Sauveur, Mont-Tremblant, and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts.
What to do in Laurentians
Canoe or kayak in the Laurentians:
Many of the lakes and rivers in the Laurentians are perfect for canoeing or kayaking. You can hire a boat or go on a tour with a guide to some of the most picturesque locations. The most well-known locations include Lac des Sables, Rivière du Nord, and Lac Tremblant.
Fish or swim in the Laurentians:
The Laurentians offer lots of chances for swimming and fishing. Some of the lakes and rivers have been stocked with trout, bass, pike, or walleye. Some of the beaches are clean and refreshing, and you can swim there. Lac Nominingue, Lac Masson, and Lac des Écorces are a few of the better locations.
Hike or bike in the Laurentians:
There is a system of hiking and bike routes in the Laurentians that will take you through forests, farmland, hills, and valleys. There are a variety of lengths and levels of difficulty available, ranging from simple loops to severe climbs. Le Petit Train du Nord, Parc National du Mont-Tremblant, and Parc Régional de la Rivière-du-Nord are a few of the most well-known paths.
Golf in the Laurentians:
With more than 20 golf courses to select from, Laurentians is a golfer’s paradise. You can choose to play on courses with breathtaking vistas of the mountains and lakes or on ones that test your golfing prowess with sand traps and water hazards. Club de Golf Le Diable, Club de Golf Val-Morin, and Club de Golf Royal Laurentien are some of the top courses.
Conclusion
We hope this blog post has given you some ideas and inspiration for your Victoria Day getaway in Canada. There is a ton of lot to do and see in these great locations, whether you decide to travel to Victoria, Banff, or the Laurentians. You can choose from several lodging options depending on your tastes and financial situation. Make your reservation for your vacation right away. You merit a break from the usual and the opportunity to enjoy this unique holiday in style. Cheers to Victoria’s Day!
We hope you have a wonderful and safe Victoria’s Day!