The Gardens at HCP
The Gardens at HCP
4.5
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
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4.5
77 reviews
Excellent
54
Very good
20
Average
3
Poor
0
Terrible
0
peacealways
Ottawa, Canada119 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
This was not my first visit to HCP, so after two previous vists since February I felt I needed to write and comment on the pleasure of visiting this garden, or what is a few gardens rolled into one! Seeing the changes in the garden as the climate changed, different signs of new life appearing to add to the many beautiful trees and scrubs everywhere. This is a 43 acre site outside the city of Victoria, designed to showcase the range of plants and gardening styles possible in the Pacific Northwest; includes a children's garden; a Bonsai Garden ; a Japanese Garden;Herb Garden; a Rhodo & Hosta garden ..and more! A peaceful place to visit and learn much about so many types of garden.
Written 7 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
yyesiamtrish2
Victoria, Canada1,572 contributions
May 2014 • Couples
Thanks to Groupon, I discovered this place, can't believe I was unaware before. What a joy to walk throughout this amazing treasure. Plan for several hours to attempt to do justice to this place. Very affordable at 11pp. Beautifully maintained. There is a "Dig This" gift store and a cafe on site. So many beautiful vistas. If you came to Victoria to visit Butchart Gardens, you would certainly enjoy this. Bring your camera, there are acres of photo opps waiting for you.
Written 14 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dawn L
edmonton, alberta24 contributions
Jun 2017 • Friends
We were told about this garden by a gardener working on the beds in the home where we were staying. I had never heard of it before. He told us it wasn't as showy as The Butchart Gardens and was more of a gardener's garden--which is about right.
It's a lovely garden, with a gorgeous Japanese garden, amongst the many others, including an outdoor Bonsai Garden, something of a rariety. While the crowds at The Butchart Gardens were daunting, the HCP had only a few people wandering about--it seems to be a well-kept secret, but certainly deserves more kudos and attention. The staff there were awesome--so friendly and helpful, and when there, don't forget to check out their little cafe--we had a lovely lunch. All in all, a very good way to spend a day.
It's a lovely garden, with a gorgeous Japanese garden, amongst the many others, including an outdoor Bonsai Garden, something of a rariety. While the crowds at The Butchart Gardens were daunting, the HCP had only a few people wandering about--it seems to be a well-kept secret, but certainly deserves more kudos and attention. The staff there were awesome--so friendly and helpful, and when there, don't forget to check out their little cafe--we had a lovely lunch. All in all, a very good way to spend a day.
Written 17 June 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kjay
Klamath Falls, OR631 contributions
Jul 2023
These award-winning, “demonstration” gardens are a MUST SEE – a fascinating tapestry of exquisite plantings & garden décor on 9 acres – promoting education & stewardship. They are affiliated with the Pacific Horticulture College, yet are open to the public.
And what a bonus for visitors who venture here! A scintillating treasure, inviting you to wander the grounds just like Alice in Wonderland!
Floral pathways lead to over 34 botanical sections, thoughtfully created to tickle your senses, & surprise you with enchanting garden delights!
At the entryway pond, look for the golden-eyed bullfrog peeking from a floating patchwork of “lucky” 4-leaf clovers which are actually water ferns! To your left is the gift shop & pay window ($ 16 adult admission; $ 12 for seniors & students), alongside a table with brochures, garden maps, and a colorful bulletin board highlighting plants & pollinators you may encounter.
Stroll farther, and you’ll walk with Alice! Watch for giant swallowtail butterflies kissing plum-sized yellow daisies, glistening green hummingbirds buzzing by, little lizards sunbathing on forest rocks, tipsy bumble bees boomeranging blossom to blossom, bold dragons flashing their gossamer wings atop snow-white water lilies, and dark-eyed juncos dancing at your feet.
A few steps more, and behold the stunningly serene, sand-raked Japanese Zen Garden, which leads to hilltop displays of magnificent Bonsai trees – renowned as Canada’s largest outdoor Bonsai Garden!
Circle round, and come face to face with lovely floral trellises laced with fragrant roses & baby pink sweet peas, a children’s gnome area, pollinator gardens, herbal & lily & heather gardens, a bridal garden, a Mediterranean garden, & so much more – exhibiting an astounding variety of plants!
Turn around again, back to a forest footpath densely lined with head-high ferns, and check out the Wsánec Ethnobotany trail – with plant ID plaques, including Native names. From there, you can stroll into a sunny open area – to the expansive veggie gardens joyously ornamented withhand-painted artwork. Look closer for unexpected surprises, and you may spy the Lasagna Garden (my favorite), & sure to bring a smile!
Throughout the gardens, you can sit at secluded benches tucked in scenic niches for private meditation & reflection, & relaxing time with friends. Most of the walking is easy, although some of the outlying paths are somewhat steep & rocky, and thus not suitable for wheelchairs.
Amazingly these gardens are tended mainly by volunteers – giving their time in the gift shop, administrative office, and outside – getting down on hands & knees – shoveling dirt, weeding, adding flowers, & placing garden ornaments & plant identification labels. Kudos to the many volunteers working so lovingly to enhance the visitors’ experience on these beautiful grounds!
Along with low entry fees, parking is free (although limited). Nearby is a charming café (Charlotte & the Quail) which has offerings that include quiches, tartines, & gourmet lattes, but is separate from the gardens. On-site plant sales are a plus – and we bought a lovely red/purple Fuchsia ‘Margaret’ – perfect for attracting hummingbirds!
See the HCP Gardens Website & Facebook page for more info. – especially for hands-on workshops, special events, kids’ programs & camps, volunteer opportunities, reception rentals, etc. You can’t see everything in one visit, so try to go to the gardens many times. And don’t miss the annual “Arts & Music in the Gardens” event – August 12th – 13th, 2023; check the HCP website for listing of vendors & special event parking. And enjoy this magical place!
And what a bonus for visitors who venture here! A scintillating treasure, inviting you to wander the grounds just like Alice in Wonderland!
Floral pathways lead to over 34 botanical sections, thoughtfully created to tickle your senses, & surprise you with enchanting garden delights!
At the entryway pond, look for the golden-eyed bullfrog peeking from a floating patchwork of “lucky” 4-leaf clovers which are actually water ferns! To your left is the gift shop & pay window ($ 16 adult admission; $ 12 for seniors & students), alongside a table with brochures, garden maps, and a colorful bulletin board highlighting plants & pollinators you may encounter.
Stroll farther, and you’ll walk with Alice! Watch for giant swallowtail butterflies kissing plum-sized yellow daisies, glistening green hummingbirds buzzing by, little lizards sunbathing on forest rocks, tipsy bumble bees boomeranging blossom to blossom, bold dragons flashing their gossamer wings atop snow-white water lilies, and dark-eyed juncos dancing at your feet.
A few steps more, and behold the stunningly serene, sand-raked Japanese Zen Garden, which leads to hilltop displays of magnificent Bonsai trees – renowned as Canada’s largest outdoor Bonsai Garden!
Circle round, and come face to face with lovely floral trellises laced with fragrant roses & baby pink sweet peas, a children’s gnome area, pollinator gardens, herbal & lily & heather gardens, a bridal garden, a Mediterranean garden, & so much more – exhibiting an astounding variety of plants!
Turn around again, back to a forest footpath densely lined with head-high ferns, and check out the Wsánec Ethnobotany trail – with plant ID plaques, including Native names. From there, you can stroll into a sunny open area – to the expansive veggie gardens joyously ornamented withhand-painted artwork. Look closer for unexpected surprises, and you may spy the Lasagna Garden (my favorite), & sure to bring a smile!
Throughout the gardens, you can sit at secluded benches tucked in scenic niches for private meditation & reflection, & relaxing time with friends. Most of the walking is easy, although some of the outlying paths are somewhat steep & rocky, and thus not suitable for wheelchairs.
Amazingly these gardens are tended mainly by volunteers – giving their time in the gift shop, administrative office, and outside – getting down on hands & knees – shoveling dirt, weeding, adding flowers, & placing garden ornaments & plant identification labels. Kudos to the many volunteers working so lovingly to enhance the visitors’ experience on these beautiful grounds!
Along with low entry fees, parking is free (although limited). Nearby is a charming café (Charlotte & the Quail) which has offerings that include quiches, tartines, & gourmet lattes, but is separate from the gardens. On-site plant sales are a plus – and we bought a lovely red/purple Fuchsia ‘Margaret’ – perfect for attracting hummingbirds!
See the HCP Gardens Website & Facebook page for more info. – especially for hands-on workshops, special events, kids’ programs & camps, volunteer opportunities, reception rentals, etc. You can’t see everything in one visit, so try to go to the gardens many times. And don’t miss the annual “Arts & Music in the Gardens” event – August 12th – 13th, 2023; check the HCP website for listing of vendors & special event parking. And enjoy this magical place!
Written 17 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrew W
Windsor, Ontario, Canada5 contributions
Aug 2018
Check out this hidden gem of a working garden. Best kept secret in the area...you won`t be disappointed. Teams of hard working volunteers quietly go about their business taking care of this beautiful expansive and varied garden using all natural products and elbow grease. The Japanese garden is outstanding and stopping by the onsite quaint restaurant is an absolute must.
Written 27 August 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sharon224
Santa Rosa, CA12 contributions
Jun 2017 • Couples
With just a few hours to enjoy the area, we had considered the ultra famous gardens in the vicinity. However, we found the Gardens at HCP on TripAdvisor, read up on it and we were off.
If you are into gardening in any way, a few hours at the Gardens will leave you smiling. Each of the varied areas has its own distinct beauty. It is easy to navigate the Gardens.
An unexpected small jewel in Saanich!
If you are into gardening in any way, a few hours at the Gardens will leave you smiling. Each of the varied areas has its own distinct beauty. It is easy to navigate the Gardens.
An unexpected small jewel in Saanich!
Written 27 June 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
yyesiamtrish2
Victoria, Canada1,572 contributions
May 2017 • Couples
Set aside a few hours to enjoy this amazing garden. Beautifully maintained. Perfect way to spend a few hours admiring nature's perfection. Lots of parking. Well priced entrance fee, $12 per person.
Written 16 May 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter F
Bowen Island, Canada379 contributions
Jun 2016 • Friends
we were warned- Don't come on the weekend as it gets too crowded. Not true, there were about 10 cars parked, and the gardens extend so wide that it was almost as if one had the place to oneself.
The big plus is its authenticity- real latin name tags, endless volunteer roster, its genuine agricultural roots. lots of ripe fruits to sample- from red gooseberries to cherries and even mulberries. A very good vegetable demonstration garden, an extensive xeric tolerant mediterranean garden, a Zen garden and topiary, beautiful bonsai specimens- some up to 60 years old.
There is the Couvelier Centre for gatherings, recently rebuilt and a true architectural asset. Their small restaurant is too good to be true- try their smoothies and salads, gluten-free desserts.
One can wander here for hours, and in many ways this is more satisfying than Butchart's. The view over the wetlands is lovely.
The big plus is its authenticity- real latin name tags, endless volunteer roster, its genuine agricultural roots. lots of ripe fruits to sample- from red gooseberries to cherries and even mulberries. A very good vegetable demonstration garden, an extensive xeric tolerant mediterranean garden, a Zen garden and topiary, beautiful bonsai specimens- some up to 60 years old.
There is the Couvelier Centre for gatherings, recently rebuilt and a true architectural asset. Their small restaurant is too good to be true- try their smoothies and salads, gluten-free desserts.
One can wander here for hours, and in many ways this is more satisfying than Butchart's. The view over the wetlands is lovely.
Written 15 June 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cathaleen
Vancouver84 contributions
May 2015 • Couples
We recently went for our first visit to the HCP, and thought it was lovely. We enjoyed a lovely walk though the gardens in late May. It is nice that many of the plants are labelled for those interested in gardening, and it has the feel of natural garden which takes a lot of work to achieve. Later the same day we proceeded on for a stroll at Butchart Gardens where we have gone many times. To be honest, I preferred the natural beauty of the HCP gardens, while Butcharts is lovely, other then the location it doesn't feel nearly as natural as the HCP did. We liked it so much we bought a membership. Next up is to try the restaurant which I know gets rave reviews.
Written 28 June 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TrudyDempsey
Victoria, Canada50 contributions
May 2014 • Family
we spent mothers day there after having a lovely brunch... it is acres of lovely gardens and native plants. the various garden are all laid out with paths to walk along and tags naming the various plans and trees and shrub so that if you see something you might like in your garden you can snap a photo or even purchase a cutting from the garden shop. They have various places you can have a picnic if your bring one along or even an afternoon tea. There is also a bistro there where you can get something if you are so inclined. It gives great ideas and inspiration for developing ones own garden. Hope to see you there!
Written 14 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carl E
Winnipeg, Canada
Can it be reached by public transport? What is the admission?
Written 17 April 2017
erinite
Victoria, Canada
What is the admission price? It is unlisted on the official website.
Written 6 March 2016
I have to scatter my friends ashes here next year,can the bay be reached by public transport from Victoria please and what is the cost likely to be
Written 23 October 2015
A Tripadvisor member
I'm sorry I can't answer that question. We had our own vehicle and did not use public transportation.
Written 24 October 2015
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