The Legacy of an Amazing Transformation
A century ago Jennie Butchart turned a barren quarry into a lush, efflorescent garden perfect as a backdrop for tea.
On this adventure you will...
- Board a motor coach and travel approximately 30 minutes through Victoria on your way to Butchart Gardens, a world famous National Historic Site of Canada.
- Take in Victoria's Chinatown, Marine Drive and Olde Towne during a scenic drive fully narrated by your driver-guide.
- Once at Butchart Gardens, enjoy roughly 90 minutes of self-guided touring. See how Jennie Butchart transformed a quarry site left behind by her husband's cement business into a 55-acre display garden that is considered one of the world's best known horticultural attractions. Still privately owned, the Gardens have become a family commitment to horticulture and hospitality, spanning over 100 years. From the exquisite Sunken Gardens to the charming Rose Garden, Butchart Gardens maintains the gracious tradition, in one of the loveliest corners of the world. Note: this tour includes approximate 1.5 miles of walking over level pathways, paving stones or gravel terrain, part of which could be stairs or cobblestones. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
- Then meet at the main dining room for a one hour traditional tea service in the best Victorian style. A variety of petit-four style options, cakes, house-made sweets, salads, vegetables and sandwiches will be available for your enjoyment.
- Peruse the local shop for souvenirs or take some additional photos before re-boarding your motor coach and traveling back to the pier.
