Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is a pleasant twenty minute walk from the Victoria Inner Harbor. It stands at the entrance to one of the city’s most lavish, leafy neighborhoods. Known as a “bonanza castle”, a term used in the late 1800’s to depict a massive house built for men who wanted to flaunt their new found wealth, Craigdarroch was the whim of Robert Dunsmuir. He was a Scottish immigrant who became the richest man in Western Canada mining coal on Vancouver Island. He died before the finish of construction. In the castle world, this one is small, but its rich history and the work that has gone into restoring it to its original condition, more than compensates for its size. Take time to read the history pamphlet before you start your self-guided tour. This castle has had many uses; family home (unhappy), hospital, university and conservatory of music. Knowing the story within the walls will enhance your tour. Admire the abundance of wood, stained and leaded glass windows and the many artifacts from days gone by and leave knowing this castle has earned its place in time.

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