Craigdarroch Castle: A Gilded Relic of BC’s Gilded Age

🏰 Craigdarroch Castle: A Gilded Relic of BC’s Gilded Age Perched atop Victoria’s Rockland neighborhood, this 39-room sandstone fantasy isn’t just a castle—it’s a time machine to 1890, when coal barons flaunted wealth with Tiffany glass and secret staircases. Built by Scotland-born tycoon Robert Dunsmuir (who died before moving in), it’s now a museum whispering tales of family feuds, wartime triage, and maybe a ghost or two. 📍 Why This Castle Stands Out 1. The Backstory: • Dunsmuir made his fortune from Vancouver Island coal mines, then spent 500,000 (≈15 million today) on this vanity project. • Irony Alert: His widow and daughters lived here barely a decade before selling it off. 2. Architectural Drama: • Stained Glass Crown: The dome above the oak staircase casts rainbow prisms at noon. • Hidden Rooms: A servants’ tunnel runs under the breakfast nook (ask guides to point it out). 3. The Ghostly Tenant: • Staff report cold spots near the billiards room and phantom cigar smells—likely Robert judging your life choices. 🎟️ Visiting Essentials • Hours: • Summer (Jun-Aug): 9 AM–7 PM • Winter: 10 AM–4:30 PM (closed Tuesdays) • Tickets: • Adults 24.75 Students 16.75 Kids (5-12) $9 • Pro Tip: Buy online to skip lines (and get a free digital guidebook). 📸 Must-Capture Moments 1. The Grand Staircase: • Shoot upwards to frame the stained glass ceiling like a kaleidoscope. 2. Master Bedroom Balcony: • Panorama of the Strait of Juan de Fuca with Olympic Mountains floating in haze. 3. Tower Climb: • 87 steps up to a 360° view—spot the Parliament Building and distant ferries. ☕ Beyond the Castle Walls 1. Butchart Gardens: • 10-min drive to these Edwardian floral fireworks (pair with castle tickets for a 10% discount). 2. Government Street: • Cobblestoned lane with British imports shops and Roger’s Chocolates (try the Victoria Creams). 👻 Halloween Alert • October Night Tours: • Lantern-lit explorations with “ghost encounter” hot chocolate afterward. #CraigdarrochDreams #VictoriaTimeTravel #BCBillionaireVibes #CastleGhostStories #GothicWestCoast