Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada

Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada

What began as an abandoned quarry over a century ago now transforms into a living colour wheel each spring. Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, knows how to put on a bloom show. In spring, tulips scent the air, colour lines the paths and something new blooms around every turn. But it didn't always look this way. In the early 1900s, Robert Pim Butchart operated a limestone quarry here. His wife, Jennie, saw potential in the depleted pit and began planting flowers in 1912. Now spread across 22 hectares, the garden is home to more than 900 plant species—and each spring, almost 300,000 bulbs bloom.

At the Butchart Gardens, take a stroll through the Sunken Garden, a former quarry, or explore the Japanese Garden, designed in 1906 by landscape architect Isaburo Kishida. While here, you might want to stop by the Rose Garden and be sure to check out the Italian Garden—it replaced the family's tennis courts. There's more: ride the Rose Carousel, which comprises 30 hand-carved wooden animals or take a boat tour. You'll also find quiet swings and bronze statues like the Three Sturgeons Fountain. Wrap it up with seasonal dishes or afternoon tea at the on-site dining room.