Follow the Garden Trail...
From the delicate cherry blossoms and daffodils of early spring to the magnificent rhododendrons in April and May, the vibrant summer perennials to the rich colours of autumn, Vancouver Island is an incomparable destination for garden lovers. Even the winter months hold a special magic as evergreen shrubs and trees take centre stage in a tranquil garden. Moreover, an immense variety of plants, shrubs, and trees flourish in the rich soil and moderate climate, making the Vancouver Island region a horticultural paradise.
While many of the Island’s gardens are open year-round, garden-touring season is generally in full bloom by April and continues into the fall months. The gardens featured in this guide range in size from perfect gems of less than an acre to grand estates. Garden themes range from traditional to funky, tropical to woodland, edible to educational. Each garden is distinctive and offers visitors a unique experience.
Between gardens, make the most of your visit to Vancouver Island. Museums, art studios and galleries, and family attractions make excellent side visits, and the shopping is always a treat. From Vancouver Island, board a ferry with your car or as a foot passnger and explore the idyllic Gulf and Discovery Islands.
If you’re feeling energetic, sample some of the region’s renowned outdoor adventures, such as whale watching, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and cycling, or play a round on a spectacular golf course. There are plenty of beaches to play on, parks to picnic in, and communities to explore. You’ll quickly discover why Vancouver Island has been named Top North American Island for the eighth year in a row by readers of Condé Nast Traveler Magazine.
Vancouver Island is easily accessible by air, or you can start your adventure with a scenic cruise on a vehicle and passenger ferry from mainland B.C. The most recommended way to travel the Garden Trail is by car. Car rentals offer a simple, convenient way to move from one garden to the next at your own pace.
At 32,261 square kilometres (12,456 square miles), Vancouver Island is one big island! The distance by car between Victoria in the south and Port Hardy in the north is 502 kilometres (301 miles). The modern Island Highway System makes driving easy and enjoyable and, no matter where you go, the scenery is always amazing.
