Castles & Gardens

springtime in Victoria & Vancouver

Spring is in the air and there is no better place to celebrate the return of the beautiful bloom than Vancouver and Victoria.  Magnolia trees are bursting with bright pink blossoms and thousands of bulbs paint the landscapes. Van Dusen Garden is where life flourishes and the Bloedel Conservatory’s domed lush paradise is home to plants, flowers and also a variety of exotic birds and fish species.

Tour Victoria’s legendary castles and famous gardens. At Craigdarroch Castle experience what life was like for the wealthy in decadent Victorian time, explore the vast grounds of Hatley Castle and enjoy  time at Butchart Gardens, Abkhazi Gardens and The Butterfly Gardens.

EXPERIENCES & HIGHLIGHTS

Van Dusen Gardens is an oasis right in the heart of Vancouver and features over 7500 plant species from around the world. The Bloedel Conservatory contains three climate zones home to more than 500 varieties of plants and more than 100 free-flying exotic birds. Abkhazi Gardens, ‘The Garden that Love Built’, was created by Prince and Princess Abkhazi in 1946. Craigdarroch Castle was once home to the Dunsmuir family who had a colourful history.

TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1 – VANCOUVER, BC

This afternoon arrive to The Rosedale on Robson, your  home for the next two nights. Tour nearby Stanley Park Gardens or visit the neighbouring shops and restaurants. Enjoy a relaxed evening.

DAY 2 – VANCOUVER

Discover the spectacular VanDusen Botanical Gardens and the tropical Bloedel Conservatory at Queen Elizabeth Park. This afternoon explore Granville Island with its galleries, markets and eateries.  End the day with a lovely dinner at the historic Sylvia Hotel overlooking English Bay.

DAY 3 – VICTORIA, BC

Board the ferry this morning to Victoria and arrive in time for High Tea at the Pendray Tea House, followed by a visit to the enchanting Abkhazi Gardens.  Spend three nights at the Huntingdon Manor surrounded by heritage architecture and lush gardens.

DAY 4 – VICTORIA

Explore the grandeur of  Hatley Castle and its sweeping grounds, then wander the world-famous  Butchart Gardens, 55-acres of floral finery brilliance.  Finish the day at the colourful Butterfly Gardens, a magical setting with exotic species.

DAY 5 – VICTORIA

Step back in time with a guided tour of Craigdarroch Castle, a Victorian mansion beautifully restored to showcase the elegance of the 1890s. Continue with the Government House Gardens, a 36-acre sanctuary of landscaped gardens and heritage buildings.  End the day with a farewell dinner.

DAY 6 – RETURN HOME

Board BC Ferries to the return to the mainland, arriving home later today.