The Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour promises a delightful exploration of three captivating locations that showcase the region’s horticultural treasures. From the renowned Butchart Gardens and its stunning array of roses to the elegant grounds of Government House and the whimsical Abkhazi Gardens, this tour offers a truly enchanting experience for garden enthusiasts. With a focus on the diverse flora and breathtaking landscapes, the tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Victoria. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate the tranquility of well-manicured grounds, this tour is sure to leave you inspired and eager to uncover more of the region’s horticultural wonders.

Key Points

  • This private electric vehicle tour showcases three renowned gardens in Victoria: Butchart Gardens, Government House, and Abkhazi Gardens.
  • The full-day tour includes 8 hours of transportation, bottled water, snacks, and complimentary umbrellas for up to 7 people at $18,635.
  • Visitors can explore the diverse floral displays, architectural elements, and scenic viewpoints of these National Historic Sites.
  • The tour offers a mix of self-guided and guided experiences, with comfortable walking shoes recommended due to uneven terrain.
  • Certain restrictions apply, including prohibitions on drones, smoking, alcohol, and explosive substances, as well as advance notice for mobility assistance.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour offers a full-day excursion through some of the city’s most renowned botanical havens.

Priced at $18,635 for a group of up to 7 people, the 8-hour tour includes transportation in a private electric vehicle, bottled water, snacks, and complimentary umbrellas.

Visitors can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour covers Butchart Gardens, Government House, and Abkhazi Gardens, with a mix of self-guided and guided experiences.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and accessibility is provided for wheelchair users with prior notice.

Prohibited items include drones, smoking, and alcohol.

Itinerary Highlights

As part of the Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour, visitors embark on a multifaceted journey through some of the city’s most captivating botanical havens.

The tour highlights include:

  • Immersing oneself in the stunning Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site with over 2,500 rose varieties across its 55-acre expanse, attracting over 1 million visitors annually.

  • Exploring the meticulously maintained 36-acre gardens surrounding the Government House, a National Historic Site with a guided tour providing fascinating insights.

  • Discovering the "Garden that Love Built", the enchanting Abkhazi Gardens, with a self-guided tour showcasing its unique history and design.

  • Traversing the destinations in an electric vehicle, ensuring a eco-friendly and comfortable experience.

Tour Features

During the Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour, guests enjoy a range of amenities and conveniences.

The private electric vehicle transportation ensures a comfortable and eco-friendly experience. Bottled water and small snacks, such as mints, gum, and mini chocolate bars, are provided to keep guests refreshed.

Umbrellas are available for use, should the weather require it. The tour also offers wheelchair access, but guests must request this accommodation prior to pickup.

Important Information

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour. The tour features several gardens with uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must.

Visitors should also check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. While photography is allowed, drones and selfie sticks are prohibited.

Additionally:

  • Not all garden areas are accessible by wheelchair, so guests requiring mobility assistance should request this in advance.
  • Child car seat requirements must be communicated prior to pickup.
  • Certain items aren’t permitted, including alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring Victoria’s stunning garden landscapes.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Restrictions and Regulations

The Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour has several restrictions and regulations in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and prohibited items include drones, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and littering. Unaccompanied minors and explosive substances are also not allowed.

Guests must follow rules regarding nudity and bare feet. Advance notice is required for child car seats and wheelchair requests to accommodate all travelers.

These guidelines help maintain the tour’s high standards and create a pleasant experience for everyone involved.

Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is a renowned National Historic Site that draws over 1 million visitors annually to its expansive 55-acre grounds.

This iconic garden features:

  • Over 2,500 varieties of roses showcased in vibrant displays
  • A diverse array of themed gardens, including the Sunken Garden, Italian Garden, and Japanese Garden
  • Stunning floral arrangements that change with the seasons, offering a visual delight year-round
  • Meandering pathways that allow visitors to enjoy the garden’s serene and picturesque landscapes

With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and commitment to horticultural excellence, Butchart Gardens is a must-visit destination for any garden lover exploring Victoria, British Columbia.

Government House

Nestled within 36 acres of lush gardens, Government House is a National Historic Site that offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Victoria’s storied past.

The guided tour (1.5 hours) takes guests through the grand chambers and hallways of this historic residence, showcasing its elegant architecture and lavish furnishings.

Visitors can explore the meticulously manicured gardens, which feature a variety of rare and exotic plant species.

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, Government House is a must-visit destination on the Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Abkhazi Gardens

After exploring the grandiose Government House and its stunning gardens, visitors can now enjoy the enchanting Abkhazi Gardens.

Known as the "The Garden that Love Built", this 1.5-hour self-guided tour offers a delightful experience.

Visitors can wander through:

  • Whimsical pathways winding through a lush, naturalistic landscape
  • Vibrant blooms and rare plant species in expertly curated gardens
  • Scenic viewpoints overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca
  • Intriguing architectural elements that complement the natural setting

The Abkhazi Gardens provide a serene and intimate escape, showcasing the passion and dedication that went into creating this beloved horticultural gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for the tour, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Guests should dress appropriately for the weather, as they’ll be spending time outdoors touring the gardens.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour provider offers bottled water and small snacks as part of the tour amenities. Consuming alcohol or other restricted items is prohibited during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, children under 16 are eligible for reduced admission to Butchart Gardens when booked as part of the tour.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Garden?

The tour allocates 2.5 hours for the self-guided tour of Butchart Gardens, 1.5 hours for the guided tour of Government House, and 1.5 hours for the self-guided tour of Abkhazi Gardens.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets to maintain a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all guests visiting the historic gardens.

Recap

The "Victoria: Garden Lovers Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the region’s horticultural gems. From the renowned Butchart Gardens to the exquisite Government House and the whimsical Abkhazi Gardens, this tour showcases the breathtaking natural beauty and rich history of Victoria’s premier green spaces. Whether you’re a passionate gardener or simply appreciative of nature’s wonders, this tour provides an unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: