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.

 

TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1 – VANCOUVER, BC

The Rosedale on Robson is home for the next two nights. Tour nearby Stanley Park Gardens or visit the neighbouring shops and restaurants. End the day with a welcome dinner at the historic Sylvia Hotel.

DAY 2 – VANCOUVER

Today tour the incredible gardens at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens and the Bloedel Conservatory located in Queen Elizabeth Park. This afternoon includes Granville Island and its many shops and restaurants.

DAY 3 – VICTORIA, BC

Travelling by ferry to Victoria, arrive in time for a traditional Victorian-style High Tea at the Pendray Tea House, followed by a tour of the Abkhazi Gardens.  The next three nights are at the Huntingdon Manor located near the harbour.

DAY 4 – VICTORIA

The grandeur of Hatley Castle’s expansive grounds will stimulate the imagination as you immerse yourself in its’ stunning architecture and gardens. The spectacular Butchart Gardens feature thousands of flowering bulbs, shrubs and trees bursting forth with renewed life. Visit the popular Butterfly Gardens and discover amazing butterflies and tropical creatures.

DAY 5 – VICTORIA

Today take a guided tour of the majestic Craigdarroch Castle. This legendary Victorian mansion has been meticulously restored, giving visitors a glimpse of privileged life in the 1890s.  Next, stroll the Government House Gardens, a spectacular setting, with 36 acres of manicured gardens, woodlands and heritage buildings.

DAY 6 – RETURN HOME

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