Private Tour Countryside Roads to Butchart Gardens & City – 5 Hrs

Exploring the natural splendor of Vancouver Island’s countryside and the enchanting Butchart Gardens is an unforgettable experience. This private 5-hour tour takes visitors on a scenic journey from Victoria, winding through picturesque roads lined with lush greenery. With the comfort of a minivan and a knowledgeable guide, guests can enjoy the region’s history and local heritage. After marveling at the Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, and other themed areas within the expansive 55-acre Butchart Gardens, the tour ventures into Victoria’s city center, showcasing iconic landmarks that capture the essence of this vibrant coastal destination. The perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm awaits those who embark on this captivating excursion.

Good To Know

• This private 5-hour tour takes visitors from Victoria to the renowned Butchart Gardens, showcasing the area’s picturesque countryside roads and historic architecture.
• The tour includes transportation in a luxury minivan, accompanied by a professional guide, and provides bottled water with the option of child seats.
• The excursion allows exploration of the 55-acre Butchart Gardens, featuring themed areas such as the Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, and Italian Garden.
• The tour also includes a visit to downtown Victoria, where guests can stroll along the historic Inner Harbour and explore the city’s iconic landmarks.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and accommodates strollers, with service animals permitted, making it suitable for most travelers without serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a private countryside excursion from Victoria to the renowned Butchart Gardens, followed by a city sightseeing experience.

The 5-hour tour is conducted in a luxury minivan with a professional guide. Pickup and return are provided in Victoria, with flexible options to suit your needs.

The tour includes bottled water, and child seats are available for an additional fee. While admission to Butchart Gardens, food, and gratuities aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive way to explore the natural beauty and urban charm of the area.

With a rating of 4.7 out of 6 reviews, it’s a highly-rated experience.

Inclusions

The private tour includes private transportation in a luxury minivan, with a professional tour guide to accompany you throughout the experience.

The package also provides:

• Bottled water to stay hydrated during the tour.
• A child seat, available for an additional $20 fee, to accommodate families.
• Pickup and return service within Victoria, ensuring a seamless start and end to your adventure.
• Admission to Butchart Gardens, though food, entry fees, and guide gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.

Pickup Information

When booking the private tour, customers can specify their preferred pickup location, whether it’s a cruise ship, ferry terminal (Clipper or BC Ferry), Harbour Air flight, hotel, or a general address in Victoria, British Columbia.

The local provider should be consulted to confirm the tour’s start time, with suggested options being 9:30 AM or 10:00 AM. This flexibility ensures the tour fits seamlessly into the customer’s schedule.

Whether they’re arriving by sea, air, or land, the private transportation service will conveniently pick them up and return them to their desired location in Victoria at the tour’s conclusion.

Accessibility and Participation

This private tour to Butchart Gardens is wheelchair accessible and accommodates strollers. Service animals are also allowed on the tour. Guests must be able to enter and exit the vehicle unassisted.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, as long as they don’t have any serious medical conditions or heart problems.

The tour offers the following accessibility features:

1. Wheelchair-friendly surfaces throughout the tour.
2. Infant seats available upon request for an additional fee.
3. Accessible transportation in a luxury minivan.
4. Assistance from the professional tour guide as needed.

Cancellation and Reviews

Visitors can’t receive any refunds for cancellations on this private tour to Butchart Gardens. The tour is non-refundable, so guests must be certain of their travel plans before booking.

The overall rating for the tour is 4.7 out of 5 based on 6 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor. Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences provided on the tour.

Reviewers appreciated the guides’ expertise in sharing insights about the Butchart Gardens and the surrounding countryside. With no refunds available, it’s crucial for guests to carefully consider their schedules before committing to this tour.

Discovering Countryside Roads

The private tour takes guests along the picturesque countryside roads leading to Butchart Gardens, offering a delightful preview of the scenic landscapes that await.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide points out highlights of the region, including:

1. Quaint rural communities with historic architecture and charming local shops.
2. Panoramic vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and distant mountain ranges.
3. Pastoral scenes of farms, orchards, and vineyards, showcasing the area’s agricultural heritage.
4. Unique geological formations and natural landmarks that reflect the area’s diverse ecosystems.

The drive itself is a captivating experience, setting the stage for the main highlight of the tour – the renowned Butchart Gardens.

Exploring Butchart Gardens

Upon arriving at Butchart Gardens, guests are immediately captivated by the lush, meticulously manicured grounds that stretch out before them.

The 55-acre gardens boast a variety of themed areas, from the vibrant Sunken Garden to the serene Japanese Garden. Visitors can explore the iconic Ross Fountain, admire the colorful displays in the Italian Garden, and wander through the winding pathways of the Rose Garden.

Throughout the gardens, guests will discover unique sculptures, charming architecture, and an abundance of native flora.

Whether strolling through the peaceful Butchart Cove or marveling at the breathtaking views, guests are sure to be enchanted by the beauty and tranquility of this renowned horticultural destination.

Experiencing Victoria City

After exploring the breathtaking Butchart Gardens, guests can head into the heart of Victoria to experience the vibrant city life.

The private tour will take visitors to the charming downtown area, where they can:

1. Stroll along the historic Inner Harbour, admiring the picturesque buildings and watching the float planes take off.

2. Visit the iconic Empress Hotel, a grand, iconic landmark and one of the city’s most recognizable sights.

3. Explore the eclectic shops and cafes on Government Street, the main shopping district.

4. Stop by the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, an impressive neo-baroque structure that serves as the seat of the provincial government.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Tour’s Health and Safety Protocols?

The tour requires no serious medical conditions or heart problems, and guests must be able to enter and exit the vehicle unassisted. Accessible surfaces and infant seats are available, making it suitable for most travelers.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

While the tour does not offer a fully customizable itinerary, the provider may be able to accommodate special requests or preferences within the 5-hour tour. Guests should discuss any desired modifications with the local provider prior to booking.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Photos or Rest?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops and rest breaks along the way. The private guide will work with you to customize the experience and accommodate your needs within the 5-hour timeframe.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour provider does not currently offer any discounts or package deals. However, they may be able to customize the tour to fit your specific needs and budget. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator.

How Flexible Is the Tour Schedule in Case of Delays or Changes?

The tour schedule is somewhat flexible to accommodate delays or changes. The provider suggests coordinating any adjustments with the local tour guide, who will work to accommodate reasonable requests within the allotted tour duration.

The Sum Up

This captivating 5-hour private tour takes you on a scenic journey from Victoria to the stunning Butchart Gardens, showcasing the region’s picturesque countryside and iconic landmarks. Explore the enchanting 55-acre gardens, then discover downtown Victoria’s highlights, including the Empress Hotel and Parliament Buildings. Travel in comfort with a knowledgeable guide, ensuring an unforgettable experience.