View Royal is a district in British Columbia, Canada, located on the southern coast of Vancouver Island. It is situated approximately 16 kilometers west of downtown Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. The area shares its border with Colwood to the north and east, while the Juan de Fuca Strait lies to the south and west.
Geography
The district covers an area of approximately 12 square kilometers, featuring a mix of urban, residential, colwoodvictoriacasino.ca and natural environments. View Royal’s terrain is characterized by gentle slopes, moderate hills, and rolling landscapes, which provide scenic views of surrounding areas and access to parks and outdoor recreational spaces.
History
Prior to European settlement in the mid-19th century, the area was inhabited by indigenous peoples who used it as a seasonal hunting ground. In 1861, the district was formally established with the creation of its first municipal council. During this period, logging operations became prominent due to the region’s rich timber resources.
The name ‘View Royal’ originates from an early settler who built his home at the top of a hill that offered panoramic views of surrounding areas and nearby Esquimalt Harbour. This location soon gained popularity among residents seeking similar vistas, eventually becoming known as View Royal.
