The Nature House
NATURE HOUSE – SWAN LAKE, VICTORIA, BC
The Nature House, located at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is an interpretive information centre, open to all visitors to the Sanctuary.
We welcome you to come in and explore. Whether you meet the local wildlife, visit the bee hive, dress up as a wetland creature, or read a book, this learning hub will engage your senses as you connect with the fascinating ecosystems found at Swan Lake. Please note that visitors under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult 18+ while visiting the Nature Sanctuary and Nature House.
The Nature House is wheelchair accessible. Admission is by donation.
GREEN ROOF KIOSK
The Nature Trust of BC is pleased to be the sponsor of the Green Roof Kiosk located at the entrance to the Nature House. This partnership began in 1976, when The Nature Trust acquired 2.4 hectares (6 acres) at Swan Lake and leased this to The Corporation of the District of Saanich, to help create this beautiful sanctuary.
Nature House Classroom
Renovations 2025, more info coming soon!
The classroom is the perfect place to host workshops, research activities, meetings, and lectures. The south and west facing windows gaze out on majestic Garry Oaks and bring in natural light for a pleasant learning environment.
The classroom offers rental accommodation for up to 30 people. There is an elevated stage as well as a projector screen for presentations. For additional attendees, the classroom and library divider can be opened to allow for a maximum seating of 55.
Check out our Facility Rentals (URL embedded) page for more information and rental requests.
Catherine Grant Library
The Catherine Grant Room houses our collection of natural history books. The heart of the collection was a gift from the Victoria Natural History Society. To keep the collection fresh we accept gently-used books with a nature theme and add them to our shelves.
The Children’s Corner offers a great selection of reading for all ages, in French and English.
Browse the books for information on the native plants, local mammals, birds, bees, and butterflies that you spotted during your walk around Swan Lake. Learn about which native plants are toxic and which are delicious.
Take a look at the beehive and try to find the Queen.
Come in and relax. Enjoy the spectacular view. Watch the birds. Dry off. Cool down. Warm up. Use your wireless device. Do some knitting. Write a card.