The Highlands, Colwood, Langford, and Metchosin are collectively known as the West Shore Communities. This large, semirural area is known for beautiful scenery, numerous parks, and some excellent attractions. Located away from the crowds of downtown Victoria, yet conveniently close to everything, the West Shore Communities have plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and shops and serve as a great base for exploring South Island. Recreation options include hiking, cycling, fishing, golfing, canoeing, and kayaking. If you’re a cyclist or hiker, you can explore the diverse scenery of the West Shore Communities via the Galloping Goose Trail.
The Highlands Several of the parks in the West Shore Communities are located in the Highlands, including Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, Mount Work Park, and Lone Tree Park. The Highlands are also home to the recently designated Caleb Pike trees are more than 100 years old. Picnics are permitted on the lawns, and tours of the grounds are available.
Colwood — Historically, Colwood was a farming district established by the Hudson’s Bay Company. Today, it’s a growing residential community with lots of great attractions and activities. The Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre has a
pool, golf course, skating rink, and frisbee golf course. Across the street, you can tee off on a mini golf course. The beautiful sandy beach at Esquimalt Lagoon is a
favorite beachcombing spot; the view of Victoria from the lagoon is definitely worth seeing.
Langford — The largest of the West Shore Communities, Langford has several lakes, parks, and an award-winning, community-wide trail system. Millstream Creek, Florence Lake, and Langford Lake all have short scenic walking trails; maps are available at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce. For a view of Esquimalt and Victoria
harbors, take the short walk to the summit in Mini Hill Park. A great place to cool off on a hot summer day is Langford’s waterslide complex which also features a mini golf course, a driving range, and go karts. Langford is also where you’ll find Victoria’s newest golf course, a world-class championship course designed by Jack and Steve Nicklaus. Meanwhile, shoppers can look for treasures at the 14,000-square-foot antique mall.
Metchosin — Farms, acreages, seaside homes, and parks pretty, pastoral Metchosin is the ideal place for a scenic country drive or bike ride. You’ll find fishing charters and boat rentals at the marinas and a golf course renowned for its challenges and picturesque waterfalls. Matheson Lake Regional Park is ideal for freshwater swimming, while Albert Head Lagoon Park and Devonian Regional Park are nature sanctuaries with ocean beaches. Experience the history of Metchosin at the little church and museum at Metchosin Corner, and wander the beautiful grounds of Pearson College of the Pacific.
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