This castle, or mansion on the hill, was completed in 1890 by the wealthiest couple in British Columbia, at the time. Robert Dunsmuir, who was a coal baron and his wife Joan, had two sons and eight daughters, but only Joan and three of her unmarried daughters lived in the castle. Robert died in 1889 before the home was completed. Today, the castle’s 39 rooms still features its original stained glass windows and impressive woodwork. Families can take a self-guided tour through the Victorian castle and witness the ornate rooms, impressive main wooden staircase, fireplaces and furniture throughout. Families could spend an hour or two touring the castle.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Things to Know/Bring: Children under 5 years old are free. The castle is not wheelchair or stroller friendly and there are four floors. The castle is not visible from the roadway (a quick drive by view of the castle is not possible), so if you’d like to see it, you must walk up the hill to the castle property. When a cruise ship in docked in the harbor, expect large crowds at the castle.

Parking:There is a small parking lot onsite.