Welcome to Central Saanich, a hidden gem cradled amidst breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant communities, and boundless opportunities. Over 17,000 residents have chosen to make this rural area their home. It stretches from Island View Beach in the east to the Saanich Inlet in the west. The region is adorned with splendid parks, nature trails, beaches, and has the highest concentration of agricultural production in the area.
The Butchart Gardens, situated in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada, near Victoria on Vancouver Island, displays a collection of floral display gardens. Drawing in over a million visitors annually, these gardens hold the distinction of being designated as a National Historic Site of Canada.
The Butchart Gardens, a renowned 55-acre display garden, has captivated visitors for 120 years in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia. Established by Jennie Butchart and still managed by her family, it earned the distinction of being named a National Historic Site of Canada in 2004, commemorating its centennial anniversary.
This regional conservation area spans 51.73 hectares along the eastern shore of the Saanich Peninsula, offering a vast sandy beach ideal for exploration, picnics, and swimming. Visitors can delve into the intertidal zone, observe birds along the coastline and fields, and relish panoramic vistas of Haro Strait, James Island, and Mount Baker.
Key Features:
- Extensive sandy beach for exploration, picnics, and swimming
- Diverse ecosystems encompassing beach, dune, wetland, and shrub habitats, hosting numerous resident and migratory bird species, as well as delicate plant species
- Opportunities for birdwatching along the shoreline and in the fields
- Breathtaking panoramic views of Haro Strait, James Island, and Mount Baker
- A loop trail offering a pleasant and scenic stroll
- Facilities include a self-contained RV and tent campground
Trail Rating: Easy Size: 48 hectares Location: Island View Road in Central Saanich Established: 1966 Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
The Village of Brentwood Bay
Brentwood Bay, nestled within the municipality of Central Saanich on the Saanich Peninsula in British Columbia, Canada, is a charming village. Positioned north of Victoria, east of Willis Point, and south of Sidney, it offers a picturesque locale.
From its ferry docks, Brentwood Bay provides access to the Saanich Inlet and the Tod Inlet. It is home to attractions like the Butchart Gardens, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, and the Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa. Additionally, it features a BC Ferries terminal connecting to Mill Bay. The area boasts several wineries, restaurants, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park.
As part of the District of Central Saanich, with a population of 17,385, Brentwood Bay contributes to the vibrant Greater Victoria area. Conveniently located off Highway 17A, just west of Highway 17 (referred to locally as the “Pat Bay Highway”), Brentwood Bay enjoys easy accessibility.
Originally named Sluggett in honor of an early settler, the village was later renamed Brentwood Bay, paying homage to the town of Brentwood in Essex.
Brentwood College School
In Central Saanich, education is a priority, fostering an environment that values and celebrates learning. Brentwood College School stands as a premier university preparatory boarding institution situated on Canada’s west coast, nestled in Mill Bay, BC. Our magnificent oceanfront campus provides the perfect setting for a contemporary education shaped by an innovative timetable, offering students unparalleled prospects in academics, athletics, and the arts.
Our diverse international community, has students from over 50 countries annually, enriches the educational experience for all. At Brentwood, the mix of choice and culture fosters an environment where students actively choose to thrive.
Nestled along the unspoiled coastline of Vancouver Island, our large 90-acre campus boasts over one kilometer of waterfront overlooking the Gulf Islands. View the breathtaking vista of the snow-capped Mount Baker. This picturesque backdrop, along with our state-of-the-art facilities, offers students a variety of enriching opportunities.
Transportation
Navigating Central Saanich is a breeze. Convenient connections to Victoria International Airport make it easy to travel near and far, while an efficient public transportation system allows you to explore the region at your own pace. Dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths invite you to discover the town on two wheels, surrounded by the invigorating breath of fresh air and the charm of the surrounding scenery.
In conclusion, Central Saanich is more than just a location; it’s an experience. It’s a place where breathtaking scenery meets vibrant community and endless opportunities. Whether you seek a haven for relaxation, a stimulating environment for personal growth, or a platform to launch your dreams, Central Saanich offers a tapestry woven with the threads of your aspirations, waiting to be unraveled. So, come, explore its enchanting beauty, embrace the warmth of its community