Victoria - City of Gardens

It's no accident that this charming City of Victoria is also called the City of Gardens. On every street there is some display, lovingly tended for passers-by as much as for the owner. Both public and private gardens are plentiful, ranging from quaint corner lots full of herbs, to the 55 acre estate of Butchart Gardens. Even in the dead of winter Butchart has something to show off. The historical house display and night-time illuminations draw many visitors in winter, but spring and summer exhibits dazzle the most hardened viewer.

Lord Nelson offers an abundance of colour, both for passers-by and for our own guests. Passion flowers pin their waxy blooms to curtains of leafy vine over the kitchen porch, and the ancient Wisteria drapes itself over the dining room French doors. A hundred baskets and pots decorate corners and hang from eaves to celebrate our lovely extended season.  

Frequent trips to famous Island gardens like Abkhazi Gardens and Government House Gardens are a must to glean ideas and enjoy the different landscaping creations. Try a trip to some of the following showcase gardens when you visit, and get your fix if you're an avid gardener!

ABKHAZI GARDEN

1964 Fairfield. Abkhazi Garden website

Russian Prince and Princess Abkhazi, together after years of separation, created this stunning example of West Coast garden design over 40 years. Carpets of naturalized bulbs, choice alpines and woodland companions provide interest throughout the year. The garden is blessed with dramatic glaciated rocky slopes, magnificent native Garry oaks and gorgeous vistas.

THE BUTCHART GARDENS

800 Benvenuto Ave. 866-652-4422 Butchart Gardens website

Explore this world famous 55-acre garden paradise. Japanese, Italian, Rose Garden, rockeries, fountains, lakes, stands of trees, and sunken gardens fill this property. See the fireworks on summer Saturdays, the teahouse, grand dining and winter illuminations.

FINNERTY GARDENS

- University of Victoria At Gordon Head Rd/Cedar Hill X Rd. Finnerty Gardens website

Major collections of Rhododendronsare in bloom in the spring, no admission. Companion plants such as Garrya, Chimonanthus, Hamemalis, Mahonia and Eucryphia extend the season through most of the year.

GOVERNMENT HOUSE GARDENS

1404 Rockland Ave. Government House Gardens website

With 36 acres of gardens, 14 acres of formal gardens and mostly free tours, this 1860 residence of our Lieutenant Governor also offers occasional tours of the buildings, originally built as Carey Castle. The gardens include perennial beds, cutting garden, rose garden and extensive herb gardens.

HORTICULTURAL CENTRE OF THE PACIFIC

505 Quayle Rd. 250-479-6162 Horticultural Centre of the Pacific website

Five acres of specialty gardens on 103 acres of land. A demonstration and education garden with extensive displays of heathers, rhododendrons, perennials and more. Their purpose is to demonstrate special plants and conditions and landscaping techniques suitable for the Pacific North West.

ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY GARDENS

2005 Sooke Rd. Royal Roads University Gardens website

See the three renowned formal gardens on the grounds of Hatley Castle: The Rose garden, Italian garden and Japanese garden. Home of the Victoria Flower and Garden Show, this stunning estate is worth a long look, taking in the ocean views and well-maintained grounds.

Saxe Point Park

Waterfront setting - pristine and dramatic. A great place on a sunny, warm afternoon, picnic in hand. Wonderful vistas across Juan de Fuca Strait towards Port Angeles and the Olympic Peninsula. Blocks from Lord Nelson B&B. No charge for admission.

Beacon Hill Park

One of Victoria's grand old ladies! Endless variety and space. Don't miss the photo op at the stone bridge across from the pond. No charge for admission.

Shangri-La, a bird and butterfly sanctuary

Royal Oak Drive

Private project by one determined octogenarian. Her vision and hard work make this a gem in progress. Two or three acres (approximately) with a couple of large ponds and an interesting collection of plants for attracting wildlife. Admission by appointment only.