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Esquimalt The Naval Docks near Victoria.
Lying all the way at the southern end of Vancouver Island, the town of Esquimalt is just 2 miles west of Victoria.
The town name is a derivation of the phrase “place of gradually shoaling waters”. Indeed, the town held increasing importance and became more populated as it served as a port for the British navy, eventually becoming the headquarters of the British Pacific fleet.
While the British navy left the area well over one hundred years ago, the Royal Canadian Navy has called it home since 1910. Just a few short years later, in 1912, the town was officially incorporated. Today, over 17,000 residents populate the area.
Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt is home to a variety of Canadian military facilities and groups and is the largest employer of the area. The area also pays homage to its strong roots. You can visit some of the original docks at HMC Dockyard and learn more about the history of the navy and military in the area, and indeed of the entire town, at the CFB Base Museum and Archives.
The famous "Fort Rodd Hill" National Historic Site sits at the entrance to Esquimalt harbour. Built in the late 1890's it was positioned across the entrance to the harbor to protect Victoria and the Esquimalt Naval Base. This is quite an interesting historic site with many of the original artifacts in place. (Besides a great view across the harbor!)Watch a four minute and twenty second slide show of what you can see there, made by someone with a rather interesting production company: interesting name at least! Turn up the sound because it sounds like Rod Stewart is singing along to these great slides.--->
You can also check out the peaceful confines of Veteran’s Cemetery. The former military gun sites of MacAulay Point and Fleming Beach offer great views.
The town can make for a wonderful, relaxing destination. There are many highly touted bed and breakfasts. Additionally, there are numerous golf courses to enjoy in the immediate area.
There are also plenty of parks and specific points of interests for sight seeing. Saxe Point Park is known for its beautifully groomed flower beds and other natural floral displays. The waterfront park contains many trails to other destinations and the waters themselves are said to have great diving.
Another area to visit is Highrock-Cairn Park. This park is the highest point of the surrounding areas and as such provides spectacular views of the town and the countryside and water around it, especially the harbor.
Other parks and natural areas include Kinsmen Gorge Park and West Song Way Promenade which combined offer scenic views, relaxation spots, picnicking areas and recreational activities.
Trackside Gallery is a large outdoor art gallery in town. The town is home to many century old homes and buildings which provide a glimpse into past generations and serve as popular tourist attractions; some of which have been converted into local resorts and inns.
There are several different walking tours through these historic sites and areas. The town also hosts many local festivals and events.
The people of Esquimalt are very proud of their history and promote not only education of its history but also current art and cultural events.
If you are searching for a quiet, scenic destination to relax, or a place to take in some history and natural surroundings, this naval city fits the bill, especially as it is so close to Victoria and all it has to offer.
