Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary

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Entire home

Very spacious 2875 sq. ft. home allowing plenty of space for large bookings.

This an Up and Down Duplex with the latest sound proofing technology. This is the Upper 5 bedroom, 3 bath 2900 sq. ft. home.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12278 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Dryer
Washer
Air conditioning
Fireplace
Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Victoria, BC

University of Victoria
‪7 min drive‬
Victoria Harbour
‪9 min drive‬
Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal
‪10 min drive‬
Victoria, BC (YWH-Victoria Inner Harbour Seaplane Base)
‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Futon

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Single Bed

Common spaces

1 Single Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Jetted bathtub · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Balcony

Separate dining area

Outdoor play area

Garden

About this property

Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary
House Video Tour: https://youtu.be/XqseWmblWiY
The best of what Victoria's character home charm and modern west coast living style has to offer. A beautifully updated 5 bedroom, 3 full bath Character home that is centrally located between downtown, ferries, and YYJ airport yet tucked away in the blissfully quiet neighborhood of Swan Lake with stunning views! With a nature reserve across the street, there is no shortage of beautiful wildlife including humming birds, deer, and bunnies; leaving one feeling at home in a true nature sanctuary. There is also a lower seperate legal home (not a suite) which offers two bedrooms and a full 4 piece bath which can also be rented for larger groups if needed.

Property manager

Gerry Etcheverry

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

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Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Parking available

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

No Shoes to be worn in the house - no exceptions! - Quiet Hours 11pm-7am for both lower guests! Please carry all luggage inside the home!

No Smoking or vaping anywhere in the home or on the property. No Parties or Events. -No bikes, strollers or golf bags allowed in the home.

Only the number of guests registered are allowed to stay overnight or on the property. Absolutely NO ICE COOLERS to be stored in the home/wood floors.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

Property Registration Number 29565, H399503546

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Victoria

Located on a lake, this holiday home is in Saanich East, a neighbourhood in Victoria. Victoria Harbour and Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Government Street. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre or Royal Athletic Park.

Victoria, BC

What's nearby

University of Victoria - 7 min drive - 5.2 km
Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre - 7 min drive - 5.4 km
Victoria Harbour - 9 min drive - 7.1 km
Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal - 10 min drive - 7.5 km
Victoria Fisherman's Wharf - 11 min drive - 8.0 km

Getting around

Victoria, BC (YWH-Victoria Inner Harbour Seaplane Base) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
‪Tim Hortons - ‬17 min walk
‪Browns Socialhouse - ‬20 min walk
‪Starbucks - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary located?

Located in Saanich East, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of Lochside Regional Trail, Uptown Center and Princess Louisa Inlet. MayFair Shopping Centre and Topaz Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

2.0/10

Amenities

2.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

2.0/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Marion M.

27 Nov 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family wedding visit

We were in Victoria for a family wedding. This home was the perfect place to host our group. So spacious and comfortable. The home is absolutely beautiful and so well stocked with anything you may need. Our host was very friendly and welcoming. Definitely would stay again and recommend to any group visiting the area.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

DOUGLAS T.

25 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thanksgiving at the coast

This was a great place to house our family of 8 for the weekend. Plenty of space, very well stocked kitchen and great indoor and outdoor spaces.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie B.

20 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

judith m.

11 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning house

This is a stunning property in a wonderful location. The house is beautifully furnished and very comfortable. This was a long anticipated family reunion; we enjoyed the outdoor spaces for dining, and we all took walks around the Swan Lake Sanctuary. at the end of the street. The host is extremely helpful and gracious. Highly recommend!

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ken S.

24 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One Word: “Amazing”

Gerry was very gracious and thorough introducing us to his lovely home. He thought of everything that a guest might need or enjoy; from the multiple tabletop fire pits on all the patios to the fully stocked kitchen. Bedrooms were spacious, clean and comfortable. The photos in the listing do not do the property justice. We hope to return sometime soon. Thank you, Gerry!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Salma W.

12 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home, very comfortable stay, great host

Stayed for 3 nights with 12 family members for a reunion Host, Gerry is attentive and quick at communication. Very clean home. Home is stocked with everything you need and more - air mattress, towels, beach towels, kitchen has everything you need for cooking dinner like spices, utensils, tupperware, BBQ. High quality linens. Outside seating areas are spacious with fire tables and pleasant garden. Gerry takes so much pride in making this a perfect stay for all. Highly recommend.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rick H.

4 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Fabulous

Perfect for larger groups wanting a place to unwind after a day of visiting the Victoria area.

Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lydia K.

1 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice stay in Victoria

Very clean and well stocked home, beautiful property and close to the nature preserve. Host was very attentive and involved.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

AIMEE G.

22 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

"Character Stay" is a great place!

We had a great stay & Gerry is a fantastic host!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan N.

20 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome property!

Situated conveniently in Saanich with an easy drive to shops and restaurants, this property is high class! It is so well stocked with high end dishes, cutlery, glasses, and serving platters and bowls. It was never a question of finding something but of which to use. Definitely not your often found poor quality, limited supplies. Many spices and basics provided. As we were 4 adult sibling couples, it was easy and comfortable to make meals and spend time there. We even hosted a small dinner party for an extended family of 3 more in the dining room. There were multiple sitting areas with well maintained patio furniture. The owner was more than happy to help with minor issues around how to use things. Loved the park that was just a short walk down the street. Sets the bar very high for future rentals!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David K.

21 Jan 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very cosy and spacious

Our 2 families enjoyed our stay at Gerry’s lovely property. Obviously it is a wee way from downtown but downtown is an easy Uber. Would recommend if you have a big group as lots of space.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kirstin G.

1 Jan 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing experience

Gerry was absolutely amazing and was so helpful during our stay! He made us feel so welcome and provided all the extra perks to make our visit memorable and comfortable. We definitely will be returning again

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

MARLIS H., Cabri, Saskatchewan, Canada

14 Nov 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Gathering

Our family of 6 adults and 2 teenagers stayed in this beautiful home for three nights in November. It is easily one of the nicest VRBO rentals we have ever had and is as beautiful and as spacious as the photos shown in the listing. It was a cool, rainy weekend, so we didn't use the deck or yard but it would be lovely to sit out there in the summer. The host, Gerry, met us upon arrival, to give instructions and information which was very helpful. We also knew he was close by should any problems arise, (which there were none!) There are some rules, but he takes great pride in this property and it shows. The house is located in a quiet area, near a nature preserve, where we went for our family photo session. It is only about a 15-20 minute drive to any of the attractions we wanted to see in Victoria. Airport 20 minutes away. The house was exceptionally clean, beautifully decorated with attention to detail. Kitchen was well stocked with dishes, glasses, appliances, condiments, spices and so on. We didn't cook any big meals, but everything you would need is there. The beds were comfortable with great quality bedding. I would definitely rent this property again if we go back to Victoria and recommend it to anyone. A +5 star rating for sure.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terry B., Austin, TX

22 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Vancouver area home

We had 3 couples staying for one week. The location was perfect for getting into Vancouver and nearby places, while not being in a high density area. The kitchen was well appointed. The beds were comfortable. We enjoyed breakfast every morning on the back deck. Gerry was quick to address a couple of small issues we had. Recommend this home.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

2/10 Terrible

Lesley

17 Aug 2023

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

The house in this rental has another basement unit renting out, we were asked not make any noise after 11pm, don’t think this is kids friendly house. The check in process felt overbearing and during it, Gerry made a few remarks, like some India guest get his oven dirty and some Filipino guest took away his olive oil bottle, that made us feel uneasy. Without any prior notice, one of his workers walked into the backyard, where we were having dinner, to start watering the plants and violating our privacy. The checkout process was very unpleasant with the owner accusing us of ruining his dining table with ‘Chinese characters’ as we were a Chinese group. The markings on the table didn’t look new and after attempting to dispute them with Gerry, we were given a $600 incidental charge for something that we didn’t cause and was told that Gerry would be wanting more incidental charges to replace the table entirely. Gerry just simply believes his “well trained” cleaner will check every inch of the house every time the guest leave, just like he said he told the worker not watering the plants while guest inside, but the worker still showed up. We would NOT recommend this house to anyone. If you do stay, we strongly recommend you take detailed photos and videos of everything when you check-in and before you check-out to prevent you from running into a similar experience like ours.

10/10 Excellent

LaJune E.

3 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Ensz's

It was great! Thanks!

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Patricia, Banff

13 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful vacation stay

Our 3 generation family of 10 just completed a most enjoyable stay in this beautiful property. This lovely home is located in a quiet area, close to major attractions and services. We loved our early mornings on the large deck surrounded by a beautiful garden filled with hummingbirds and butterflies. After busy days of sightseeing we would again gather on the deck to laugh and share our adventures of the day. The home is as pictured; beautiful, spotless, very comfortable. The dream kitchen is well equipped with everything you need to create interesting meals. The large dining room table accommodates 10 diners, and also provides a wonderful spot for games. We appreciated our host, Gerry who was attentive without being intrusive. If we needed anything we would send a text and he would respond quickly. He dropped off what we asked for at the front door. He did the yard work while we were away from the property. He was generous in answering questions and providing information when we asked. We all loved this home and it’s location. If we can get everyone together again we wouldn’t even look for a different property, we would book this house.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matt F.

4 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home in fantastic place

My family stayed here for several days and it was a wonderful time. The house is beautiful and well-taken care of. There is space to sit on the deck and play outside in the grass. There is a large kitchen/living room area for everyone to spend time together but there are also several rooms where everyone can spread out if they would like. Everything you need is pretty much there. The inside of the house is immaculate and updated. The outside is beautifully landscaped. It is near a nature sanctuary which is nice to walk around in the morning or evening. There are many bike trails near by and a gym with a great pool for kids. Downtown Victoria is only 3 to 4 miles away so that is not a bad drive. The owner, Gerry, takes a lot of pride in the work he has done on his home and wants his visitors to have the best time possible. I enjoyed meeting him and I appreciated his hospitality. This was a wonderful house. We had 9 people stay and it was perfect for us.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erika C.

30 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorable

I am not always the most confident when booking a stay for a group: its a lot of responsibility! So, when my sister got to Gerry’s ahead of me and texted, “It’s amazing!”, I breathed a sigh of relief. Everything was attended to: neat as pin, superb communication, incredibly well stocked cupboards, room to congregate but with space for those who wanted to retreat, beautiful surroundings, attention to interior design, and easy to follow instructions. I can’t thank Gerry enough for his kind hospitality and would certainly stay here again….and again.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

William F.

23 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great for a group of eight

This is a very nice large house with a large deck that worked well for our group for two nights. It is on a quiet street but only two blocks from an arterial. I recommend it and would stay there again.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue P.

8 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic House

This property was perfect for 5 friends exploring Vancouver Island. It is easy to get to all major highways and so close to downtown. Highly recommend.

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Kathryn K.

2 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent property, not family friendly

This rental is easily the nicest I’ve ever stayed at with any rental service. The house is lovely with excellent amenities. The owner obviously takes very good care of the house. There are many upgrades throughout making it a luxury stay. The house is fully stocked with most everything you need including ample towels, toiletries, dish and laundry soap. The owner is very nice, has excellent communication and was able to work with me on an issue with a change in occupants last minutes. The only issues we had were the slightly overbearing and ever present owner as well as feeling like our kids weren’t welcome. The owner was there for the checkin and took us on a 30-45 minute walk through of the whole house. While some of this was helpful, some of the items he covered were self explanatory or able to be covered in a handbook. The owner definitely takes pride in his home but said some unnecessary things eluding to the concerns that my children were going to break things and cause messes. Halfway through the trip we got a message that our kids were too loud in the morning asking us to keep our 1 and 3 year olds from walking too heavily. The owner was also on site a lot of the time and we felt as if we were being watched. Overall this home would be great for friends or a family without little kids.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Craig D.

25 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Victoria/Sannich BC

The property was very well looked after and the host had extreme pride in the property and it was evident. We had an excellent stay in Victoria because the accommodations were excellent as described.

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill L.

30 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and convenient!

Lovely house with plenty of room for our party. Nice walking trail across the street and park nearby. Host thought of every detail. We loved it!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

John R.

25 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A house for a wedding group to stay

The property was perfect for the needs fof our group of seven.There is probably no other property available that has the amount of supplies in house for use by a renter . The number and variety of glasses available were impressive. Gerry was very responsive to any of our requests . There is plenty of parking nearby for any guests..The house is modern inside and true to pictures online. The nearby Swan Lake nature walk was nice and enjoyed by all of us. Highly recommended for a group going to Victoria

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

About the host

Hosted by Gerry Etcheverry

Long time resident of #YYJ, Real Estate Professional with Re/Max Camosun for 33 years. Be it vacation rentals, long term rentals or finding your forever home; thoughtful homes is what I do best. As a DIY/HGTV enthusiast, attention to detail and well thought out living spaces are important to me. I am an avid outdoorsman, enjoy home cooking but also cycling, running, triathlons including the Iron Man (5x), coming 34th I(AG) at World Championship in Kona. Working and chatting with all types of people is in my nature, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Why they chose this property

This updated upper character 5 bedroom 2875 sq. ft. home is both private and quiet. The home offers vaulted ceilings in the master bedroom and ensuite, a walk in closet and a space for an extra queen sized air mattress if required on the upper loft. This home was completely updated from floor to ceiling. Both the Master bedroom and the second guest bedroom offer walk in closets to stow away one's luggage and all that one can pack in it The luxurious bathrooms has an abundance of linen and towels, separate laundry. One can either enjoy the soaker tub for relaxing or for the shower lovers, a beautiful rain shower awaits you. The home has been both a pet and smoke free home.

What makes this property unique

The best of Victoria's character home charm and modern west coast living style by Swan Lake. Bright, airy space with 2 large bedrooms with walk in closets and a 3rd large bedroom on the main floor as well 2 cute smaller bedrooms full of character; all while affording an open concept. All bedrooms have air conditioning. Beautiful wide hallways with crown molding, and curved arches. So many focal features of this home to list. The kitchen boasts Brand New premium model, stainless steel appliances perfect for the avid home chef.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

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Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary

Photo gallery for Character Stay across Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Bedroom 3

Bedroom 4

Bedroom 5

Common spaces

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Spaces

About this property