A Long Weekend Getaway on Vancouver Island Part 1

This Victoria Day long weekend, my family and I set out to explore the picturesque beauty of Vancouver Island. For me, it was not just a relaxing holiday but an opportunity to indulge in my passion for landscape photography. With stunning views, historic sites, and vibrant gardens on our itinerary, I was eager to capture the island’s essence through my lens. Here’s a detailed recount of our memorable trip from the perspective of a landscape photographer.

Day 1: Journey to Victoria

From Vancouver to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

Our adventure began in the early evening with a scenic drive from Vancouver to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. The soft, golden light of the setting sun bathed the landscape in a warm glow, providing beautiful lighting conditions for photography. The route, flanked by lush greenery and glimpses of the ocean, offered several captivating scenes. I couldn't resist stopping a few times to capture the beauty of the landscape illuminated by the evening light.

Sunset Ferry Ride to Swartz Bay

We boarded the 7 pm ferry to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island. The ferry ride was an excellent opportunity to capture the transitioning light of the sunset over the water. The sky transformed into a vibrant palette of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting off the calm ocean surface. I spent most of the crossing on the deck, capturing the serene waters, the dynamic sky, and the occasional silhouette of a distant island. The children enjoyed watching the seagulls and the occasional dolphin, adding to the magical atmosphere of the journey.

Arrival and Stay in Victoria

We arrived at Swartz Bay around 8:30 pm and drove to Victoria, where we checked in at the Grand Pacific Hotel near Victoria Harbour. The drive was peaceful, with minimal traffic and the gentle glow of city lights guiding us. The hotel's prime location near the harbour was perfect for some night photography. The calm waters of the harbour, reflecting the lights of the Parliament Building and nearby boats, created a stunning scene. After capturing a few night shots, we settled in for a good night's rest.

Day 2: Exploring Victoria and Butchart Gardens

Morning Stroll Around Victoria Harbour

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, we set out to explore Victoria Harbour. The morning light was ideal for photography, casting soft shadows and highlighting the historic architecture of the Parliament Building. The harbour was bustling with activity, from boats setting out on early morning excursions to floatplanes taking off and landing. With my GFX 100 II and GF 45-100 mm lens, I captured the vibrant harbour scenes, focusing on the interplay of light, water, and historic buildings.

Visit to Butchart Gardens

Next, we drove to Butchart Gardens, a paradise for any landscape photographer. The drive itself was picturesque, with coastal views and lush forests lining the route. As we arrived, a light rain began to fall, adding a fresh, dewy look to the gardens. After a quick lunch at the garden's cafe, the skies cleared, revealing the gardens in their full springtime splendor.

Photography in the Gardens

The Butchart Gardens were a visual feast. The highlights were the vibrant spring blossoms, particularly the tulips in full bloom. Their bright colors created stunning focal points in my compositions. The Sunken Garden, with its rich tapestry of flowers and intricate landscaping, was particularly captivating. I spent considerable time capturing wide-angle shots to encompass the grandeur of the landscape, as well as close-ups to highlight the intricate details of individual flowers.

The waterfalls within the gardens added a dynamic element to my photography. The sound of the cascading water and the play of light on the moving water made for some compelling shots. The Japanese Garden provided a tranquil escape with its serene water features, meticulously maintained plants, and traditional structures. The delicate balance of elements in this garden made it one of my favorite spots for capturing peaceful, reflective scenes.

Drive to Nanaimo

As the day came to a close, we left Butchart Gardens and set off for Nanaimo. The drive to Nanaimo was a peaceful end to a day filled with beauty and inspiration. The scenic route took us through charming small towns and along coastal roads with stunning views of the ocean. We made a few stops along the way to stretch our legs and take in the sights, including a picturesque beach where the kids played in the sand and collected shells.

Arriving in Nanaimo, we enjoyed a hearty dinner at a local Indian restaurant before heading to our Hotel and checking in. Nanaimo is known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food, and we were not disappointed.

This Victoria Day weekend was a perfect blend of family time and landscape photography. The scenic ferry ride, the historic charm of Victoria, and the breathtaking beauty of Butchart Gardens provided endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Vancouver Island is a paradise for landscape photographers, offering a diverse array of scenes, from bustling harbours and historic buildings to serene gardens and coastal vistas.

For anyone with a passion for photography, I highly recommend taking the time to explore both the well-known attractions and the hidden gems of Vancouver Island. Each moment on this trip was a reminder of the island's unique charm and natural beauty