Canada is home to some of the world’s most stunning views. From the majestic Rockies to the bucolic eastern coastline, tourists travel far and wide to witness the beauty of the maple leaf country.
In light of this, many Saanich residents might be surprised to discover that one of Canada's top viewpoints is right in their own backyard.
A recent report by financial services company Remitly has determined that Saanich’s Mount Tolmie was deemed the country’s third best vista.
With over 1,500 metres of trails meandering to its summit, Mount Tolmie is a popular urban lookout located a few minutes' drive north of downtown Victoria. The 120-metre peak provides an accessible viewpoint with panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula, Victoria, and the Olympic Mountains across the Salish Sea.
Named after 19th-century biologist William Fraser Tolmie, the park is home to a Garry oak meadow, arbutus trees, rocky slopes, picnic areas, and excellent birdwatching spots.
This urban gem is a frequent stop for residents and visitors seeking a quick adventure within the region.
Delighted by the news, Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock was proud to see this local gem ranking at the top of this national ranking.
“It certainly gives a big boost to Mount Tolmie viewpoint,” he said. “We're listed among some pretty iconic spots across the country and it confirms what a lot of folks in this community know is that we've got a really beautiful, special place.
Despite competing with numerous iconic Canadian viewpoints, Murdock believes Mount Tolmie rivals the best spots, meriting its well-deserved recognition.
“There are panoramic views in every direction,” he said. “You can see the water and the mountains… and if you get up there at sunset, it creates a beautiful view over Saanich and all the way to downtown.
“It's a gorgeous spot, just steps away from the urban environment, and yet it feels like you're in a completely different space.”
More than just a place to take a breather and enjoy the surrounding nature, Mount Tolmie holds a significant place in Murdock’s heart.
“It's the place where I got married and so it adds a romantic flavour to the enjoyment of this place.”
Two other viewpoints that made the top 10 are also close by, with Mount Maxwell on Salt Spring Island ranking second and the Malahat Skywalk in eighth place.
Mount Maxwell, one of Salt Spring Island’s highest peaks with an elevation of 580 metres, is known for its sweeping views of the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, and the mainland.
The Malahat Skywalk, which opened in 2021, is a 32-metre-high spiral tower that offers views of Saanich Inlet, Mount Baker, and the Coast Mountains. The attraction includes a treetop walkway and an optional slide descent.
Astrid Chang, executive director of communications for Destination Greater Victoria, welcomes the news as a testament to the region's natural beauty.
“We are delighted any time the natural beauty of our region is featured,” reads her written statement. “Greater Victoria is full of stunning landscapes, and we invite visitors to enjoy them as part of their stay.”
Although Alberta’s Bear’s Hump in Waterton Lakes National Park has been crowned the country most popular viewpoint, B.C. had the most locations in the top 20, with nine spots. Other B.C. vistas included Burnaby Mountain Park and Soames Hill in Gibsons.
The study, which examined more than 483,000 online reviews of 411 locations across Canada, ranked sites based on the percentage of positive mentions of the word “view.”
The full study and rankings can be found on Remitly’s website.
