Butchart Gardens

The Sunken Garden in an abandoned limestone quarry.

View from above at the Sunken Garden

Notice the beautiful arched walkway in the back of the garden.

View from the restaurant porch overlooking the gardens.

Love this mirrored detail in the restaurant- look at the beautiful arrangement in the swan.

Gratin of Macaroni and Dungeness Crab

While on Victoria Island, we visited the world famous Butchart Gardens.  Words do not describe this enchanting place on earth - they simply take your breath away!  I wonder if Jennie Butchart in 1904  ever dreamed that her little place on earth would be what it is today.  You enter through this canopy of hanging yellow flowers similar to wisteria (nothing is labeled in the gardens except the roses because they feel it will detract from the beauty of the experience).  The numerous pergolas and door ways that were covered with vines and hanging baskets were very inspirational ( trying to figure how how to do some of this at home??) .  The original residence on the property is now a restaurant and specializes in serving a formal tea.  However, we opted for Macaroni and Dungeness Crab Gratin and a green salad with a divine white balsamic dressing.  You can sit on the porch and overlook the rose garden while enjoying your meal.  Of all the gardens, my favorite was the sunken garden. You are walking along and all of a sudden look down at this incredible masterpiece below you and you gasp with delight at the beauty.  This is a " must see" if you are ever in this part of the world.  My friends Jill and Julie told me about it - thank you so much- otherwise we might have missed this incredible experience.