Christmas in BC’s Capital

Victoria is a go-to travel destination anytime of year but there’s nothing quite like being there to experience the magic of Christmas. Grab a warm coat, a good pair of walking shoes and go! —Michelle Hopkins

Stay: There are hotels and then there are great Dames. But no matter how elegant and enduring a Grande lady is, at some point, they require a facelift. Built in 1908, the iconic Fairmont Empress is undergoing a major renovation slated to be completed in May 2017. One of the city’s architectural jewels, we knew we were in for a special weekend when we discovered we had been upgraded to an understated elegant Fairmont Gold concierge level room. With Gold, you receive breakfast and happy hour in the Fairmont Gold Lounge & Patio overlooking the harbour—very sophisticated. I can’t tell you how addictive a ridiculously comfortable mattress, silky-smooth sheets, puffy down comforter and mountain of pillows are, but all I can say is that my partner had to pry me out of bed for breakfast.

Savour: You can taste this city’s sustainable ethos at just about any eatery on the island … The restaurants we visited offer highly individualistic visions of food, rooted in local ethics yet not bound by them.

Housed in a restored 1888 house, Nourish Kitchen & Cafe features a small yet interestingly well curated farm-fresh carte du jour. I went for the farm bounty, a medley of French lentils, braised greens and charred carrot, which was delectable; while my partner’s slow roasted duck leg was simply perfect. Proprietor Hayley Rosenberg insists that each dish be healthy but bursting with flavours. Her kitchen team succeeded.

Located in Victoria’s inner harbour, the Canoe Brew Pub’s historic timber and brick architecture was only rivalled by its fare. (Built in 1894, the City Lights Building has been lovingly restored). This is one brew pub that serves up food that gastro geeks will love. May I suggest the spicy Thai broccolini to start? Then, enjoy the beet and arugula salad (with prawns for me), whose high-quality ingredients made it the star of the dinner show.

Do: Head over to the Inn at Laurel Point for its 8th Annual Gingerbread Showcase benefitting Habitat for Humanity. You will marvel at these “travel-themed” edible creations. Professionals and amateurs alike square off for the best-looking creation. The detail and intricacy are amazing, and these gingerbread houses support real housing for people who need it most.

While there, grab lunch at the waterfront AURA where executive chef Takashi’s seasonal-minded menu draws from his Japanese roots and his West Coast influences. My beet soup and my partner’s silky smooth butternut squash soup were to die for. Following by entrees—arctic char and tempura-battered Basa with Wasabi tartar and chips, both sublime!

Check out the 25th Annual Festival of Trees at the Fairmont Empress and The Bay Centre until Jan. 3, 2017. I dare say even Scrooge would have a hard time not breaking into a smile if he took in the artistry of the festooned trees!

Don’t Miss: During this festive time of year, you can’t miss signature events such asthe century-old tradition of high tea at the Afternoon Christmas Tea at the Fairmont Empress. The Empress has all but invented high tea in its chateau-style Foyer. The scones with clotted cream and jam (now made in-house), petit fours and sweet treats—prepared especially for Christmas—are worth every calorie.

The aroma of mulled wine, gingersnaps and roasting chestnuts remind me of Christmas markets. One that is worth a visit is the Christmas at the Market in the Victoria Public Market. It didn’t take me long to pick up a few nature-inspired Christmas tree ornaments and a couple of unique gifts from local artisans. While there, meander with a cup of Roast java and indulge in a slice of Victoria Pie Co.’s sinful chicken pot pie … they don’t call this pie porn for nothing.

Finally, each night around 5 p.m. the Parliament Buildings, the harbour and the decked-out ships illuminate the sky; promising you another dose of holiday cheer.