Victoria and the Butchart Gardens

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, sits on the craggy southern end of Vancouver Island. With abundant parks, it is known for outdoor activities. The British colonial past is evident in Victorian architecture, including the majestic mansion of Craigdarroch Castle. The Butchart Gardens, with some 22 hectares of vivid floral displays, plus statues, fountains, and a carousel, is one of the city's many formal gardens.