01 Victoria → Shirley
The Grand Loop begins in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. Paved roads through Metchosin and East Sooke deliver coastal scenery and ocean views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Overview
The Vancouver Island Grand Loop begins in Victoria, the capital city of beautiful British Columbia. Starting from the top of Beacon Hill, you can see Olympic National Park in Washington off in the distance. The route passes through the Esquimalt Lagoon Bird Sanctuary, coastal areas with water on both sides of the road, and the twisty roads around East Sooke before reaching Shirley.
Well paved along the entire route. Downtown Victoria is great for tourists but will be slow going for riders. Once outside the downtown core and into Metchosin, traffic subsides. Picks up again in Sooke, but Otter Point Road is usually clear.
Top of Beacon Hill — plenty of parking with a great view of the ocean and the Olympic Peninsula.
Lots of options in Victoria. At stage end, Shirley Delicious is a popular spot for a small lunch or a quick coffee and snack.
Ogden Point cruise ship terminal with a 750m breakwater walk to a lighthouse. Esquimalt Lagoon Bird Sanctuary with water on both sides of the road. Spirit Bay pullout with marina and ocean views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Get gas in Sooke before heading west — gas is also available in Port Renfrew (as of 2017). The Blue Bridge may occasionally lift for ships; use Gorge Road or Bay Street Bridge as a detour.
Stage Map
Photos
