On The Hill: Radar Hill Blog

Over the last year, we’ve all learned to love the perks that can be found in exploring the area around you instead of going further afield. But, even without the restrictions, we’re lucky enough to have some amazing places and destinations on our doorstep here in Vancouver Island.

In that spirit, this featured business newsletter will take a look at some of our clients who can help make your summer one to remember.

On the Water and Fishing

3 Hour Sail 

This is a website we’re currently working on! But the service they provide is very much the finished product, 3 hour sail offers the unique experience of being able to enjoy a cruise on an authentic 20th-century heritage sailing vessel. Built in 1939, the Duen is a tall ship that can carry 24 guests for day sails, and 16 for overnight journeys. 

To see pictures of this beautiful ship and book a tour visit www.threehoursail.com

Beasley's Fishing Charters

There’s nothing quite like getting back to the elemental pull of nature and taking to the waters to see if you can land the catch of the day. At Beasley’s Fishing Charters in Victoria, that’s exactly what you can get, all guided by the expert knowledge and skills of local fisherman Darren Beasley. These excursions are the ideal day out for family gatherings and work outings alike. 

To book your own fishing trip visit www.beasleysfishingcharters.ca

Fantasea Charters

Make fantasy a reality with this once-in-a-lifetime experience from Fantasea Charters. Nothing screams luxury and a great time quite like a boat party aboard a 41-foot luxury yacht complete with its own licensed bar! Impress your friends and make sure everyone has a summer remember with the party to outshine all other parties courtesy of Fantasea Charters. 

To reserve your own party cruise visit www.fantaseacharters.com

Bayview Yachts

Owning a yacht is a step towards freedom — a chance to embark on a new and exciting adventure and take to the sprawling open waters. Bayview Yachts are experienced yacht brokers who can help you do just that, offering a hassle-free experience that will guide you towards owning your very own luxury yacht. They are also able to facilitate the sale of your current yacht if you’re looking to upgrade or move on to a new adventure. 

For more information visit www.bayviewyachts.com

Island Outfitters

This year we’ve all been trying to get out and make the most of wide-open spaces, and there’s nothing quite as relaxing in these stressful times as a spot of fishing. Since 1994, Island Outfitters has been supplying  Victoria’s fishermen with all their bait and equipment needs, as well as a range of other hunting supplies.

For that perfect gift for the fisher in your life find them at 1681a Island Highway or visit www.fishingvictoria.com

Food 

Oak Bay Seafood

There’s nothing like enjoying some fresh seafood by the coast, and there’s no better place to buy the finest in local seafood and freshly sourced delights than Oak Bay Seafood. They offer a fantastic selection of fresh local fish, shellfish, and a variety of canned, smoked, and frozen products. All products are fished and sourced with the highest commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Find them at 2024 Oak Bay Avenue or visit www.oakbayseafood.com

Beach House Restaurant

As the name suggests, Beach House restaurant offers the chance to enjoy fine dining while looking out on some truly spectacular views. Nestled on a bluff that overlooks Cordova Bay, the restaurant serves an assortment of food that utilizes the very best of local seafood and draws inspiration from its west coast surroundings. They also offer an assortment of fresh home-baked treats & coffee to takeaway for a picnic on the beach.

To see their full menu, visit www.beachhousevictoria.com

Cheryl’s Gourmet Pantry

A picnic should be a relaxing experience, just great food, beautiful weather, and the company of those close to you — so why stress over getting the right food, especially when Cheryl’s Gourmet Pantry has such a wide selection for you to choose from. With fresh salads, vibrant dressings, and an appetizing array of local seafood, there’s something for any picnic occasion. 

To order your own luxury picnic basket, visit www.cherylsgourmetpantry.com/picnic-baskets

Eugene’s 

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean without ever leaving Vancouver Island with the authentic Greek flavours and delights of Eugene’s. Their products include delicious Tzatziki, Homous, Pita Bread, and Spanakopita, all prepared from traditional Greek recipes.

To see a full list of where you can get their products or order online visit www.eugenes.ca

Souvenirs 

Cuban Cigar Shop

There are few products that carry more social cache, quality, and style than the Cuban Cigar, with its worldwide reputation and storied history. Making them the ideal gift this summer, and the Cuban Cigar Shop in Victoria offers a wide selection of quality options. Additionally, they have an impressive selection of accessories, including luxurious humidors, cigar cutters, and lighters.

To see their full selection of products, find them at 938 Fort Street or visit www.cubancigar-shop.com

Heritage Wooden Gifts

It is now easier than ever to find beautiful custom works of art, as with Heritage Wooden Gifts you can find something which is carved with love by expert engravers.

They have a wide selection of pieces, including jewellery, crests, medals, magnets, bookmarks, and coasters, which gives you the chance to present someone with a truly unique gift that captures and transforms the natural beauty of the West Coast into a lovingly crafted treasure.

To view their full selection of products and order now visit www.heritagewoodengifts.com

Out of Ireland

Out Of Ireland have a wonderful collection of Irish, knits, scarves, wraps and hats right here in downtown Victoria. Additionally, the store showcases Irish jewellery, wool throws and many other unique gift items. They also carry the widest selection of men’s wool caps and hats in Western Canada. Other brands to enjoy in the store are Bewleys, Claddagh, Guinness and Mucros.

Visit them at 1000 Government Street, or worldwide shipping available - order now at www.outofireland.ca

Fait Grant's on the Avenue

Antiques don’t just make for excellent gifts, full of character, uniqueness and attractiveness. They also offer people a chance to join a lineage of owners and personal history. With a collection of hand-picked items from homes across Vancouver Island, Faith Grant’s on The Avenue has a wide range of antiques for that special, personal gift.

To see their current inventory, visit www.faithgrantantiques.com

Currency

FX Connectors

As much fun as a staycation is, we’re all no doubt also looking ahead to that time where we’ll finally be able to travel abroad once again, and when you do — you’ll need FX connectors. FX connectors help you ensure your vacation is just that by taking care of one of the more stressful and unenjoyable tasks, by making sure you have the right currency! No one wants to be caught abroad without cash, or caught off guard by expensive credit card fees, so talk to FX Connectors and let them help you sort everything out.

To find out more visit www.currencywholesale.com

Salt Spring Island 

Grace Point Square

A day trip to Salt Spring Island wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Grace Point Square. Here they offer a choice of restaurants, art galleries, shops, day spa, and more. They are footsteps away from the famous Saturday Market in Centennial Park, and conveniently located near all three marinas that can be found in Ganges. 

For the full store directory visit www.gracepointsquare.com

Salt Spring Dream Vacation

Finding the right place to stay during your vacation can be almost a job in of itself — which is why Salt Spring Dream Vacation are here to do that work for you! With meticulous attention to detail, they'll ensure that you get the perfect property for your needs, without having to do any of the legwork. All of the properties they pick from have been personally screened by them, making sure they’re able to be comprehensive in our search for your dream vacation. 

To start your dream vacation, visit www.saltspringdreamvacation.com

Accommodation 

Loreto Bay Homes - Mexico

If you’re able to get away to Mexico, a wonderful place to go is Loreto Bay Homes. Nestled below the dramatic Sierra de la Giganta, with the warm, clear waters of the Sea of Cortez at the doorstep is Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Loreto is a historic town and is protected as a World Heritage marine site, where you can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling, scuba, golf, hiking, deep-sea sport fishing, or just relax by one of the many pools and beaches. Whether it’s a short-term rental or your new vacation home, visit Loreto for stunning views and a great environment.

For more information visit www.loretobayhomes.com

Salish Seaside RV Haven

You don't have to travel far to have an amazing holiday. Stay at Salish Seaside RV Haven and have your very own unforgettable RV staycation. Bask in the sun and springtime bloom of Victoria, with a short stay right by the spectacular Victoria Harbour! With all the amenities required for a peaceful stay, admire the stunning views of the coast, only a short drive from everything downtown Victoria has to offer. Proudly owned and operated by the Songhees First Nation and Esquimalt First Nation, stay at Salish to enjoy a pleasant rest right by the harbour.

To reserve a place, see www.salishseasidervhaven.com

Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Bask in complete luxury at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, with spectacular panoramic views and the very best in pampering and luxury in the form of their famed Boathouse Spa. This is truly an oasis, a paradise that will help you transport yourself away from the grind of daily life into another world. 

Treat yourself to a truly lavish experience this summer and book your own getaway at www.oakbaybeachhotel.com

Mill Bay Beach House

Make your stay in Vancouver Island one of comfort and relaxation, by finding your home away from home at Mill Bay Beach House. Located just to the north of the Mill Bay ferry, this is the ideal location for exploring the picturesque sights of Cowichan Valley, as it includes panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula. 

To reserve your piece of paradise, see www.millbaybeachhouse.com

Misty Meadows Bed & Breakfast

In an age of sterile, cookie-cutter vacation experiences, many people are looking for something different, with unique charm and personality, and that’s exactly what can be found at Misty Meadows. This farmhouse stay offers elegant delicious food platters, a wide array of animals for you to bond with, and a charming magical interior. 

To make a booking visit www.mistymeadows.com

Heathergate Cottage & Suites

Let the stress melt away as you relax in this home away from home. At Heathergate House spend time enjoying the English-style country garden with its beautiful plants and flowers. Full of striking colours and textures, the garden is the perfect spot to savour a drink and bask in the summer sun. Being just a few minutes walk from the bustle and charm of the picturesque Inner Harbour and downtown, you’re just moments away from all that Victoria has to offer. With all the amenities of a home, but all the luxury fittings of a hotel, Heathergate provides a fantastic base  for an idyllic break.

To book your room, see www.victoria-vacationrentals.com

Victoria Cat Hotel 

If you’re going away for a few days, you need to make sure your cats are looked after too — by sending them to a full-service resort. The Victoria Cat Hotel, located near the Gorge Waterway, is a full-service resort for your cats, with multi-level suites that surround a cat playroom. The hotel has a kitty cam that is available for you to view your cat online. Pick-up and drop-off services are available, within the Greater Victoria area and beyond. For more information see

www.victoriacathotel.ca 

Thank you for reading our Tourism newsletter. If you would like to be featured in future ones, please email info@radarhill.com!

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