craigdarroch castle

橡树城堡（Craigdarroch Castle） Craigdarroch在GAILIC语是“岩石和橡树”的意思，象征古堡及四周地貌。是靠煤矿发迹的富商罗勃特（Robert Dunsmuir）及夫人出资兴建的外形类似城堡的豪华住宅。Robert Dunsumuir 19世纪从爱尔兰移民至加拿大，在NANAIMO附近发现煤矿，成为BC省第一个百万富豪。古堡由美国俄勒冈州波特兰市（Portland, Oregon ）建筑师Warren H. Williams设计，在1890年完工。从古堡往外望，可俯瞰维多利亚市的景色、一睹Juan de Fuca 海峡的明媚风光，以及远眺Olympic Mountains的雪山胜景。古堡先后成为部队医院，后来是维多利亚学院和维多利亚音乐学院，直至1979年成为博物馆。

Funny things is I've lived in Victoria for almost 7 years but never been inside. I've only been on the lawn for a wedding and just recently on a date. He suggested us go at night; very skeptical at first. The place was GORGEOUS, all lit up on the outside. We just went for two circles around the castle then took a seat on the bench and talked for two hours while looking up at the stars. Definitely going to do this again!

We didn't get a chance to go inside the house as it was closed so we just had a walk around it. Can't comment on the inside.

This home displays the craftsmanship of yesteryear. The staircases are works of old world craftsmanship. The many rooms show how the wealthy lived. Very interesting. Definitely a must see when in Victoria.

At first I wasnt super excited to go to this museaum/castle because I am not a huge museum person. But this place was soooo interesting. I liked that I was able to read about the family who built it and in each room read something about it. They have the rooms pretty much with most original furniture and it looks as it did back in the day. Not only that, but you can feel the energy and imagine what it would have been like to be there. It is as if you are traveling in time to the past while in this house. I was there maybe two hours and loved it! As you get to the top (there are several floors) you get an added bonus of a beautiful view of the entire city!

How the other half lived! Beautifully restored and furnished with authentic items from its original era. A work in progress but well worth the visit. But be warned ... stairs, stairs, stairs! Not elderly or disabled friendly.

Excellent historical home with furnishings, wood work and a family history story included. Once was center of BC wealth. Be sure not to miss this. Nice spot for a bike ride to also.

This is an almost rags to riches kind of story. Every time you return to this attraction you will see something you missed before and learn a little more of our local history. A must see on your tour list.

The Craigdarroch Castle is a house built by one of the industrialists in Canada. The furnishings and history that you learn about on the self-guided tour are very interesting. I liked that it was not just stale history but they detailed the different things the castle has been over the years – house, school, hospital. The abundance of pictures really gives you a feel for what it must have been like during those times. We enjoyed it very much. TIP: If you have a backpack you must carry it in front of you (so as not to damage anything). The rules seemed burdensome when you check in but they are not. They just want to keep the wood and trim and furnishings from being destroyed. All of the docents and workers were very friendly.

My husband and I went here years ago. It is a beautiful castle with a great story. The woodwork and staircase are definite high points.

Craigdarroch Castle is an interesting place to see if you have a couple of hours to spare while in Victoria. It's quirky architecture and rooms full of personal items and historical tidbits that give you a glimpse of lives lived not too long ago are guaranteed to entertain.

A lovely self guided tour through a beautiful old home. Hard to believe a family called this castle a home!

Upon entering the castle grounds it took my breath away. This is a beautiful castle with all the original décor in most of the rooms. The staff there are very helpful and you can take as many photos as you wish. Since being sold by the original owners, it has been a hospital and a school. It is a beautiful place to visit and well worth the entry fee.

Craigdarroch is a bit of a walk out of downtown and is not really worth it if you've been to Europe and seen 'proper' castles (was finished in 1890). The family who lived their called it a house, not a castle and that is really what it is. Entrance is steep, 14 CAD we left after about an hour. The huge 80 acres grounds and gardens are no longer there so the castle is situated within a urban neighborhood, which also affects the atmosphere. Guests with little children (9ish) seemed to enjoy describing things to their children. The place is well maintained with well-informed volunteers who are very happy to answer questions. Not a must see. Perhaps if it's raining or you have small children but otherwise, don't set special time aside.

This is great for history buffs or anyone who enjoys seeing beautiful buildings. Plan to spend a couple of hours enjoying the fine architecture and the interesting history. A landmark in Victoria.