The open field to the southwest is where the "luxurious" Pinehurst Inn used to stand.
Pinehurst Inn was built in 1916. The rates in the 20's and 30's included ALL meals, plus baggage transfer to and from the train. The WEEKLY rate in the main building or the adjacent cottages was about $20. For meals only -- Breakfast was $0.50, Dinner was $1.00 or less.
The name of the hotel was later changed to The Victoria Beach Inn.
In 1953, the Inn was partially destroyed by fire. Then in 1959, the remaining rubble of the burned-out Inn (and several adjacent buildings) was removed. If you search the grounds carefully, you'll still be able to find some of the stone footings in the grass.
One of the original rental cottages still stands. It's now the VB Library (N 50° 42.000 W 096° 33.539) in the Village Green area. Two more of the original cottages are located at 130 Centre Avenue (N 50° 42.089 W 096° 33.288) and 132 Centre Ave (N 50° 42.098 W 096° 33.273). NOTE: These two cottages are private property. They were purchased in 1957 after the fire, dismantled, and moved to their present location. The original two-storey staff residence for the Inn (also private property) is still standing on the south-east corner of Pine and Eighth Street (N 50° 42.000 W 096° 33.203, across from St. Michael's Church).
Thanks to the VB Herald and Gerri Oakley for the information and VB nostalgia-lover Mark Strople for the photos. Thanks Google Eyes for your assistance as well.
You may wish to stop off at Einfeld’s Bakery for some baked goodies (N 50° 42.047 W 096° 33.484). “Happy Face” cookies and “Dream” cookies are VB staples. Also, try the cow patties.
The Moonlight Inn is open during the summer months and is a convenient place for lunch or dinner (N 50° 41.992 W 096° 33.521).
The most popular day beach is Clubhouse Beach (N 50° 41.925 W 096° 33.687). There is no campground at Victoria Beach.
Parking note: During the months of July and August, vehicle traffic is restricted at Victoria Beach. If you arrive between the last week of June and Labour Day (first weekend in September), you must park your car in the parking lot (N 50° 42.135 W 096° 33.191) and walk from there. Parking will cost you $6.00 (in 2014) for the day. So bring your family and beach gear and make a day of it. Note: All other times of the year, your vehicle is welcome to travel with you throughout the community.
