 Chemainus Mural, Peter Langer photo
The Bastion
Located in downtown Nanaimo, the Bastion is the oldest free-standing Hudson's Bay Company fort in North America. A curious, octagonal building of three floors, it was constructed in 1852 without the use of nails, using 20-cm (8-in) squared cedar timbers that were notched and then fitted together with dowels. This French-Canadian construction method was called "poteau sur sole" ("post on sill").
Saunders Bridge
Nicknamed "Bungy Jump Bridge," the steel, 66-m (217-ft) Saunders Bridge spans the Nanaimo River in a classic arch style. It was the first bridge in North America custom built for bungy jumping and rises approximately 44 m (143 ft) above water level. Three types of jumps are popular here: the "bungy jump," the "ultimate swing" and the "flying fox."
Saunders Bridge is located in Nanaimo, a 1-hour and 30-minute drive north from Victoria via Highway 1.
BC Legislative Buildings
The BC Legislative Buildings dominate the architectural landscape of Victoria's Inner Harbour. Designed by renowned architect Francis Rattenbury in the 1890s, they are a visual feast inside and out. Gold and silver leaf, murals, ornate plaster details and wood mouldings ornament the richly-hued walls and ceilings. Visitors also encounter solid marble columns, statuary, stained glass as well as unique architectural flourishes. Be sure to take some time to appreciate the beauty of the grounds, which feature flower gardens, fountains, statues and exhilarating views of the harbour and mountains. Tours are available Monday through Friday.
> Legislative Assembly website.
Fairmont Empress Hotel
Architect Francis Rattenbury tended to blend architectural styles in his buildings; the Empress, built in 1908, was no exception. Domed polygon turrets draw on classical influences, while Tudor arches in the lobby give that part of the hotel an Elizabethan feel. The picturesque broken roofline is dotted with Gothic dormers, while the 475 guest rooms are decorated in Edwardian-Victorian vintage style.
Craigdarroch Castle
Experience Edwardian-era luxury at Craigdarroch Castle, former home of local coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. Built in the 1890s, its design mixes Jacobean, Scottish Baronial and French Gothic elements. Interesting exterior details include heavy stonework, a castellated roofline and 35 iron-braced chimneys. Inside, Scotch Granite columns, decorative tiling, stained glass, oak staircases and mahogany fireplaces hold their own against the rich furnishings and draperies.
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