Hatley Park National Historic Site — Attraction in Colwood

Hatley Park National Historic Site is an absolute gem! Nestled in the heart of Victoria, BC, this expansive site offers stunning gardens, historic architecture, and a variety of trails that cater to both leisurely walkers and more adventurous hikers.

Trails: The park features several well-maintained trails that wind through beautifully landscaped gardens and the picturesque waterfront. The main trail is about 2.5 kilometres long, perfect for a stroll or a jog. Check out the woodland trails that offer a more rugged experience, with varying terrain and breathtaking views.

Amenities: The park is equipped with clean restrooms and several picnic areas. There are also benches along the trails, making it easy to take a break and soak in the scenery.

Dining Options: After your walk, head to the nearby café for a cozy bite to eat. They offer a great selection of sandwiches and local pastries. Alternatively, several restaurants within a short drive serve everything from fresh seafood to hearty pub fare.

Parking: There are multiple parking options available: Main Parking Lot: It accommodates many vehicles at the entrance. Street Parking: Available along nearby streets, but check for parking restrictions. Visitor Center Lot: A smaller lot that can fill up quickly but is close to the trails.

There are EV charging stations located in the main parking lot, which is definitely a plus for electric vehicle owners.

What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are necessary, as the trails can be uneven. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, and remember a hat or sunscreen on sunny days.

What to Bring: Bring water to stay hydrated, a camera to capture the stunning views, and perhaps a light snack if you plan to explore for a few hours.

Safety Concerns: While the park is generally safe, be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you venture into the more wooded areas. Look for wildlife like deer and various bird species, but remember to observe from a distance rather than feed them.

Wildlife: Speaking of wildlife, I spotted several beautiful birds and even a curious deer during my visit! The park's natural habitat makes it an excellent spot for nature lovers.

Overall, Hatley Park National Historic Site is a beautiful place to spend a day enjoying nature, history, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a local or just visiting,...

My review to go visit this Castle and the grounds is 5 stars. It's absolutely beautiful and worth while to see.

I gave a 3 star, because I bought a ticket to the tour specifically to go inside, since you cannot go in otherwise. Most of the tour was outside (which we can see for free) then we went into about three rooms in the castle and after, it ended.

Now if you are considering going on the tour there are a few things to you need to know. If you are wanting to strictly go inside, my friend and I felt it was not worth $20 CAD each. If you are interested in the history of the house then I would say yes it is worth it, because they only quickly mentioned the X-men and other movies that were made there one time during the tour. Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about...

Just ask the roaming, resident peacocks... Hatley Castle and the estate are an exotic and impressive university location. The Royal Roads University, formerly Canada's western military college, is especially renowned for environmental, business, leadership and management education, although not limited to just those offerings. There is impressive academic rigour and leading edge academic work done here. When done the day's work or taking a break, wandering the gardens, beaches, trails, woods offers a natural and beautiful break from mundane cares. Hatley Castle is also a popular venue for weddings, small conferences and group gatherings. The castle, the grounds and the university are well worth visiting when you are in the greater Victoria region. The peacocks will...