Vancouver Island explorations: A Lagoon, Fortification and Lighthouse

Esquimalt Lagoon (from Fisgard Lighthouse)

Last Thursday was one of those lovely clear sunny days that I look forward to during the winter months when grey skies seem to be the norm. Admittedly, it was cold but I was ready for some more exploring. Esquimalt Lagoon was the choice of the day as I had made a brief visit there in the summer and was intrigued by the land formation (barrier spit) that has created a shallow ocean fed lagoon between the land and the spit. The lagoon has become a migratory bird sanctuary and a place for bird watchers to go. For geocachers, there are two earth caches as well as some traditional caches (whichI have yet to do.) Added attractions in the area (and yet to explore) are: Hatley Castle (part of Royal Roads University) and giant Douglas fir trees that are amongst the largest on the island (http://www.esquimaltlagoon.com/).

Nearby (and I did explore) are: Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse.

Lower Battery, Fort Rodd Hill

Fort Rodd Hill astonished me. I didn’t realize that from 1878 to 1956 Victoria was guarded by a series of coastal artillery fortifications and Fort Rodd Hill is one of the world’s most complete and best preserved. The historical site is worth a visit anytime of the year. The Lower Battery includes a fortress plotting room with (it seemed to me) steel door and windows. The room was used during the Second World War for a short period and used in the 1950s for anti-aircraft plotting.(http://www.fortroddhill.com/index.html).
Canada Geese now dot the landscape and on occasion deer can be seen grazing on the site.

Fisgard Lighthouse has the official title of being the first permanent lighthouse on the Pacific Coast of Canada. It was erected in 1859-60. The lantern came from England along with its first lighthouse keeper. The lighthouse was automated in 1929 and is still operational today (http://www.fisgardlighthouse.com/).