Tucked away on Brentwood Bay, north of Victoria, the multi-award-winning Butchart Gardens were established in a small quarry in 1912, the vision of Jennie Butchart who had, six years previously, moved to this area of Vancouver Island. Over a century later the gardens are now 55 acres in size and comprise of multiple themed areas, such as the Japanese, Italian and Mediterranean gardens, alongside a visitor centre and a gift shop. Thousands of flowers are in full bloom in spring and summer, which in turn attract a wealth of butterflies, bees and birds, but it’s also a lovely place to visit in autumn as the glowing russets and ochres of the trees line the pathways.

Transfers or tours are available from downtown Victoria or it’s an easy 25 minute drive for those with a car.