Weekend Escape to Vancouver Island: Exploring Victoria with the 2025 MINI Cooper S
If you’re craving a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight, a weekend escape to Victoria on Vancouver Island is the perfect way to unwind. Add the thrill of driving the 2025 MINI Cooper S into the mix, and you’ve got a getaway to remember. From the picturesque Victoria Inner Harbour to the luxurious spa at Fairmont Empress and a fine dining experience at Marilena Cafe & Raw Bar, here’s a recap of a truly memorable weekend.
Our weekend began with a drive from Vancouver to Victoria in the 2025 MINI Cooper S, which turned heads in its stunning Ocean Wave Green exterior with the white roof and mirror caps from the Favoured Style package. With 201 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque under the hood, the MINI delivered a fun, spirited performance.
Upon arriving at the Victoria Inner Harbour, we parked the MINI—thanks to the Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View, finding the perfect spot was a breeze. The harbour, bustling with life, is a must-see. From colourful water taxis zipping around to the grand presence of the Fairmont Empress in the distance, we soaked up the charm and took a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
The next morning started with a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, just a short drive from the harbour. The MINI Navigation AR guided us easily through Victoria’s streets, and we arrived to find the wharf alive with vibrant houseboats, local artisans, and seafood stands. It’s an excellent spot to grab fresh fish and chips.
After exploring the Fisherman’s Wharf, we made our way to the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Empress for a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation. Opting for the Deep Tissue Massage, I was treated to a sensory journey with the Calm Mind Ritual, which began with soothing lavender, peppermint, and cajuput essential oils. The massage itself used Sunflower Oil to target deep muscle tension, perfect after a morning of walking and exploring.
The MINI Cooper’s heated seats and heated steering wheel came in handy as we returned to the car after the spa treatment, ready for the next phase of our adventure: dinner at one of Victoria’s finest restaurants.
For our final night in Victoria, we made reservations at Marilena Cafe & Raw Bar, recently named the No.1 Best New Restaurant on Canada’s 100 Best List. The Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System provided an impeccable soundtrack to our evening drive, setting the mood as we anticipated a culinary experience like no other.
Marilena lived up to its reputation with a menu that seamlessly blended global flavours with the best of Vancouver Island’s fresh ingredients. The Japanese raw bar offered an impressive selection of nigiri and sashimi, but the standout was their local seafood offerings.
Our weekend in Victoria was a perfect mix of exploration, relaxation, and indulgence, made even better by the experience of driving the 2025 MINI Cooper S. With its MINI Experience Modes, sporty performance, and luxurious touches, it’s hard to imagine a more enjoyable ride for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re cruising down coastal roads, exploring the historic streets of Victoria, or relaxing after a day at the spa, the MINI Cooper S adds a sense of fun and sophistication to every moment.
