On The Hill: Radar Hill Blog

It’s easy to forget just how much there is to do close to home, which is why we’ve rounded up some of our amazing clients that can help you have a perfect staycation. Whether you want time on the water, a place to unwind, or great local eats, take the time this summer to be a tourist and see some of the wonderful things that Vancouver Island has to offer.

In this edition:

Accommodation

Days Out – Boats & More

Food & Shopping

International and Currency

Accommodation

Mill Bay Beach House

Make your stay on 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 rural and forested stay offers elegant and delicious food, a wide array of animals for you to bond with, and a charming magical interior. Plus they were honoured with the “Best Modern B+B in BC” award for 2024 and 2025 by an international travel company, a testament to their excellence. To make a booking visit www.mistymeadows.com

Days Out – Boats & More

3 Hour Sail

Transport yourself back in time with this amazing and unique experience from 3 Hour Sail and enjoy the chance to travel 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. Enjoy its comfort and charm while travelling along the spectacular coast of the Pacific Northwest! To book your own 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

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. With a convenient location just on the doorstep of the Saturday Market in Centennial Park, and near all three of Ganges’ main marinas, there’s no excuse not to put it on your itinerary. For the full store directory visit www.gracepointsquare.com

The Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC

The Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC is a non-profit member based society of professional sea kayak guides. They support sea kayak guides, the guiding profession and community through training, certification, professional development, and professional standards. Human powered ocean travel comes with inherent risk, so choose a SKGABC certified guide for your next trip to ensure your kayaking experience is a safe one. To hire a guide visit www.skgabc.com/hire-a-guide

Food & Shopping

Cheryl’s Gourmet Pantry

With so many beautiful areas, having a picturesque picnic is something that should be on your list this summer. It should be a relaxing experience – with just great food, beautiful weather, and the company of those close to you, so don’t 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

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 or souvenir 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

Eugene’s Greek Food

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean without ever leaving Vancouver Island with the authentic Greek flavours and delights of Eugene’s. Products include delicious Tzatziki, Homous, Pita Bread, and Spanakopita, all prepared from traditional Greek recipes. These are perfect for anyone looking to assemble a delectable picnic platter or ideal snacks for a long day out enjoying the natural sights of the many amazing parks and gardens. To see a full list of where you can get their products or order online visit www.eugenes.ca

Island Outfitters

Vancouver Island is renowned for its rivers, lakes, and wide open surroundings, and if you’re planning to take advantage of those, you’re going to want the best in supplies and gear for your trip. 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. Find them at 1681a Island Highway or visit www.fishingvictoria.com

Lochmar Farm

A 17 acres hobby farm on the sheltered waters of Saanich Inlet, Lochmar Farm sells wholesale as well as direct to local customers. Their products are grown naturally, without the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides. In the summer you can find blackberries, along with eggs, beef, and lamb. For more information visit www.lochmar.ca

Mad Greeks Pizza

Family-owned and operated, since 1986 Mad Greeks Pizza have been serving great pizzas. Located in the heart of Langford at 703 Goldstream Avenue you can count on them for delicious pizzas, pasta, salads, and even souvlaki. To view their full menu visit www.madgreekspizza.ca

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

Ramen Arashi

A Japanese ramen restaurant, Ramen Arashi serves good wholesome food in a warm, friendly atmosphere. They have studied, refined and honed their menu to serve only the "best of the best" regional favourites. With locations in Victoria, Banff, Canmore, Kelowna, and Calgary, if you want authentic ramen this is the place to go. To order online visit www.ramenarashi.ca

Saigon Char-Broil

When you’re in Victoria don’t pass up the opportunity to sample some of the area’s amazing restaurants. Saigon Char-Broil offers a unique and mouth watering Vietnamese BBQ experience, covering classics such as Banh Mi and Pho, so be sure to check out them out at one of their three locations. To view their menu visit www.saigoncharbroil.com

The Met Bar + Grill

Looking for a great local restaurant with the feel of your neighbourhood pub? Find inspired food, fresh ingredients, and genuine service at The Met Bar + Grill in Langford. A fantastic place to relax and enjoy premium casual dining, they have created a comfortable yet upscale atmosphere where you are welcomed to dress up or wind down. Global cocktails, fine wines and distinguished beers make it a truly unique experience. To view their menu see www.themetropolitangrill.ca

The Village Taverna

This neighbourhood kitchen in the heart of Cook St. Village offers fresh and authentic Greek classics in a casual dining atmosphere. With a menu loaded with traditional recipes and reflecting generations of tradition, The Village Taverna is sure to deliver on both flavour and quality, emphasizing the qualities of traditional Greek hospitality or “filoxenia”. To view their menu go to www.thevillagetaverna.ca

International and Currency

FX Connectors

If you’re traveling abroad, you’ll need FX Connectors. FX Connectors takes care of one of the more stressful and unenjoyable tasks: 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 let them help you sort everything out. Plus they help you avoid the higher rates and long lines at the bank. And if you’re visiting and need to convert foreign cash to Canadian Dollars, they can do that too. To find out more visit www.currencywholesale.com

Loreto Bay Homes (Mexico)

There are few destinations with more to offer than Mexico, with its stunning weather and scenery, and vibrant culture and food. And if you’re looking to make the most of all Mexico has to offer, be sure to check out 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. Loreto is small historic town that is extremely safe and clean 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. With nonstop flights from Calgary to Loreto from November until April, with easy Add-Ons from other Canadian cities, it’s a great place for family vacation, romantic getaways, or extended stays. For your new vacation home, visit Loreto for stunning views and a great environment. For more information visit www.remloretohomes.com