Victoria Real Estate Blog

Did you know Victoria is home to a beautiful castle that looks like it was taken right out of a fairytale? The Craigdarroch is a beautiful castle visited by over 150,000 people every year. The interior of this castle is absolutely amazing and paying a visit will provide a look at something you won't forget anytime soon.

The Craigdarroch isn't the only castle in the area, however. Hatley Castle is another choice for your visit and sits on over 560 acres today. Unlike the Craigdarroch Castle, the Hatley Castle does have gardens throughout. Today, this castle is home to the Royal Roads University, but it was once a private residence. It contains Italian, rose and Japanese gardens.

The Craigdarroch Castle

Even though the Hatley Castle provides plenty of gardens, it doesn't provide the same fairytale feel as the Craigdarroch Castle. Originally, this castle was owned by Robert Dunsmuir, but he passed away in 1889 the year before the castle was actually completed. He was a coal-mining and railways magnate.

The following years were not that great for the castle, but today it's owned by the Craigsdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society. It has been restored to its Victorian beauty with plenty of stained glass and amazing woodwork throughout.

It stands four storeys stall and a typical tour of the castle takes about an hour. The castle is found near the Rockland neighbourhood and visitors often describe it as magnificent. If you've never visited the Craigdarroch Castle, make sure to add it to the list for 2014.

Robert Dunsmuir's son, James Dunsmuir was the owner of the Hatley Castle. They both had a similar plan for their castles, but James actually lived in his before he passed.

You can tour the Hatley castle, as well with a guided walking estate tour, which lasts about one hour. They also provide a self-guided tour option and provides access for guests from 10am to 4pm daily.