European impact on Vancouver Island began in 1778 when Captain Cook set foot on Nootka Island. Both the British and the Spanish became deeply involved in exploration of the island and surrounding waters. In 1792, with the signing of the Nookta Conventions, Spain ceded her interests in the area to Britain. Some fifty years later, in 1843, the British Hudson's Bay Company was established by James Douglas to protect British interests in the area . It became a supply centre and jumping-off point for the Fraser Gold Rush of 1858 and was incorporated as the city of Victoria in 1862. First as a capital city of the crown colony of Vancouver Island and then of the amalgamated colony of Vancouver Island and British Columbia and since 1871 of the province of British Columbia.

Heritage Sights for History Buffs - Victoria

Helmcken House was built by Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken and is the oldest house in British Columbia on its original site that still opens for the public. Dr. Helmcken, a surgeon with the Hudson’s Bay Company, set up house in Victoria when he married the daughter of Governor James Douglas in 1852. He went on to become a statesman and helped negotiate the entry of British Columbia into Canada, as a province. The good doctor’s original 19th century medical kit is among the interesting items on display.

Emily Carr House In historic James Bay, the former home of this famous artist and writer is a "must-see" for lovers of the art, hoistory and culture of the West Coast. In the restored rooms of the house, built in 1864, visitors can visualize the Victorian ways of the Carr family and view some of their possessions. 207 Government Street, Victoria (250) 383-5843 for more info.

Point Ellice House On Victoria's Upper Harbour, near the Point Ellice bridge, is Point Ellice House, former home of Gold Rush-era magistrate and commissioner Peter O'Reilly. With its exquisite garden, O'Reilly's house was a popular gathering place for Victoria's social elite. Visitor's can take an audio tour of the house, seeing along the way, an astounding collection of Victoriana in their original setting. 2616 Pleasant Street, Victoria (250) 380-6506 for more info. Open mid-May to mid-September.

Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse One of Vancouver Island's first farming communities and located on what was an original Hudson's Bay Company farm. The Georgian-style manor house was partly built on the old HBC post-and-beam design and still stands amid field and gadens. 2709 Shoreline Drive, Victoria. For more information on tour availability call (250) 383-4627

Parliament Buildings An artful blending of European architectural influences, the Francis Rattenbury-designed provincial Parliament Buildings grace Victoria's Inner Harbour. Tours available in the summer months with topics include British Columbia history, architectural features of the buildings and the parliamentry system. (250) 387-3046 for more information.

Fort Rodd Hill A former military site built in the late 1890's, the fort is one of the world's best preserved and most complete fortifications of its kind, consisting entirely of original structures, with minimal restoration. 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, Victoria. (250) 478-5849 for more info.

Maritime Museum Impressive galleries, film theatre, rotating exhibits and authentic period uniforms captures the province's seafaring history of the last 130 years. 28 Bastion Square, Victoria (250) 385-4222 for more info.

Seafun Safari - Being on a Seafun Safari is an action-packed marine adventure in one of the most spectacular settings on earth. From the moment 450 horsepower lifts the bow of your zodiac and thrusts you toward the horizon in a rush of sea and spray you are running on pure adrenalin. Cruise up close to seals and sea lions. Skim the waves with schools of porpoise. Watch majesti eagles soar overhead and come close to nature's most awesome predator: Orca the Killer Whale. (250) 360-1200.

Ride the Cat - Victoria's best whale watching and marine wildlife tours. Our large, fast and stable catamaran will get you there quickly and in comfort. Two full bathrooms on board. Enjoy the most exhilarating experience available that will make you holiday memorable. Department of Transport approved vessel with experienced guides. Departs from the Inner Harbour. Whales, porpoises, seals, seal lions, bald eagles...excitement and thrills. Go with the big red cat!(250) 384-9998.

The Aerie Resort
On the mountain side, not far from Victoria, this beautiful, intimate resort set within 80 acres of West Coast wilderness, boasts spectacular views and the mild climate of southern Vancouver Island. Lush nature invites you to get out and explore whereas the hotel’s wellness centre is an open invitation to relaxation and pampering. Indoor pool, award-winning cuisine and views from both dining rooms.

600 Ebadora Lane, P.O. Box 108, Malahat VOR 2LO (British Columbia); Phone + 1 250 743 7115; aerie@relaischateaux.com