Travellers and residents alike know that Ottavio is a fantastic place to start your day. This Italian inspired bakery, complete with a sprawling patio and fountain, is home to strong espresso, and sweet delights to help you start the day right.

Next door to Ottavio, you’ll find the Winchester Gallery where you’ll fall in love with a classic collection of paintings and sculptures. Art lovers rejoice! If you’re in the mood for window shopping or buying a new piece, this is the place for you. Oak Bay is home to countless studios and galleries, including the Avenue Gallery, Gage Gallery, and Side Street Studio, just to name a few.

If you’re in the shopping mood, Nicholas Randall should be on your list of stops. Here, a delightful selection of unique houseware finds, trendy women’s apparel, locally made jewellery and other covetable items will ensure you bring something home.

Every good neighbourhood has a charming bookstore. In Oak Bay, that bookstore is Ivy Books. Get lost in new fiction, classic literature, or shop the greeting cards and magazines.

Anyone looking for children’s books or the perfect baby shower gift should visit Finn & Izzy. Fun facts: The sisters who run this sweet little boutique also own Nicholas Randall, and the name for their business was inspired by their own daughters: Fionnuala & Isabella.

There is so much more to explore on the main avenue but a day in Oak Bay wouldn’t be complete without a stop off at the English Style Penny Farthing Pub in the heart of the Village. Relax on the patio or take in the Victorian style interior with a hearty helping of pub food and a pint. This English pub is an Oak Bay establishment and has been part of the community for nearly 20 years. It will be easy to see why this is one of the must-visit pubs in the region.

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