Winter is on its way

Living in Victoria and watching the national news, it is hard to believe we are in winter. From the interior of BC to Newfoundland, we see reports of snow, bad road conditions for driving and other problems. As it is very green in the winter, it is hard to relate to the winter that the rest of Canada gets. When we look at the Olympic Mountains just across the Strait of Juan de Fuca and watch the snow caps build, it is our reminder. Word has it that it might snow this weekend. Good thing is, if it last more than two days, we are really in winter. Come for a visit and see why we live here. Winter in Victoria is much easier to take.

Olympic Mountains

The end of November is often frequented by high winds and seasonal downpours, however this year has been exceptionally mild. A couple of days ago I was near the water in Esquimalt and took this picture which shows the majestic Olympic Mountains which are now snow-capped. They are giants and rise right out of the sea (Juan de Fuca Strait). The water was calm and made for great picture taking.

Viewpoint Extraordinaire

If you want to see on of the best view points on Vancouver Island you will need to drive north of Victoria towards Duncan. As you leave Langford in the West of Victoria you will come across the Malahat Drive which begins near Goldstream Park. You will steadily climb up the Malahat. There are two view points on your right as you reach the summit. Stop at both. The first one has spectacular views back towards Victoria along Saanich Inlet. On a clear day you can see the Olympic Mountains in Washington State. There is always something spectacular to see at this view point. Then when you reach the summit, you will find another viewpoint hidden behind a split rock. The views from here are unbelievable. You can see out into the Gulf Islands. You can see all of Saanich Peninsula. You look down into Saanich Inlet and Brentwood Bay across the Inlet. You can watch the Brentwood-Mill Bay Ferry crossing below. Just across the way is Senanus Island. Below the surface of this island starting at about 80 feet are massive cloud sponges covering the wall as it descends to some 700 feet deep. Looking across Saanich Peninsula you will see the airport and Sidney by the Sea. Past that are the American San Juan Islands. The views go on for ever. If the weather is clear on the mainland you will also see beautiful Mount Baker in Washington State. Enjoy.