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Discover The Beauty Of Butchart Gardens
Visitors to Vancouver Island have enjoyed the sights, sounds and smells of Butchart Gardens for several decades. Perched on the Saanich Peninsula in Brentwood Bay, these floral gardens have evolved over the years into the spectacular showcase seen today.
Rich limestone deposits in this region led Robert Butchart to relocate his cement making company to this area of the west coast in 1904. The gardens were born several years later when his wife Jennie arranged for Isaburo Kishida to design a Japanese garden for their Canadian estate. The Sunken Garden became a reality when the quarry was exhausted in 1909 and the project for its transformation was begun.
The couple chose to name their home Benvenuto in 1921. This Italian word for welcome was fitting since that was the same year they opened their gardens to the public. The tennis courts became an Italian Garden five years later and by 1929, the vegetable garden had become a bed for roses.
Open year round, the gardens are in a constant state of change as different plants and flowers complete their growing season and others take their place. The landscape takes on different characteristics as the seasons change and there is always something new to see. The greenhouse displays are also changed seasonally and the huge sliding window gives photographers a chance to capture clear images of the contents.
An elaborate light system has been installed to provide illumination after the dark and adds a whole new dimension to the gorgeous landscaping. Fireworks shows and live entertainment during the summer months only add to the experience.
Every corner of Butchart Gardens is filled with stimulating scenery. The sculpture collection features several pieces including creations by Sirio Tofanari. One Tofanari piece is the fish fountain found in the Japanese Garden and the other depicts a donkey and foal and is located near the residence. Visitors love to visit the wild boar named Tacca and rub its snout for good luck.
The young at heart will not want to miss a ride on the Rose Carousel. Completed in 2009, the hand carved ride is the only one like it on the island and it has become a popular tourist attraction. Bears, horses, zebras, ostriches and other animals chase each other is a delightful tableau and there are two chariots for those who prefer to lounge.
There are three choices for those looking for a meal. The Blue Poppy Restaurant offers cafeteria style dining and is perfect for families. The Dining Room Restaurant occupies space inside the original residence. Enjoy local cuisine while taking in the beautiful surroundings including Tod Inlet, the Italian Garden and the Private Garden. High Tea is served during the winter and afternoon tea service is provided during the warm weather months. Light snacks and beverages can be found at the Coffee Shop.
A visit to Butchart Gardens is the perfect way to spend the day.
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