Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis) - Image 1
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Reford Gardens / Jardins de Métis

4.6
·2k reviews·Grand-Métis, Canada

Canada's northernmost horticultural gem, blending Elsie Reford's legacy with contemporary garden art.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis) - Image 1

Reford Gardens / Jardins de Métis

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Canada's northernmost horticultural gem, blending Elsie Reford's legacy with contemporary garden art.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Definitely worth a few hours of your time; it will increase your quality of life."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are expansive with many paths; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the beauty and exhibits.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stream Garden (Jardin du Ruisseau)

Stream Garden (Jardin du Ruisseau)

Central garden area

A tranquil, cascading water feature winding through lush greenery, offering a serene escape.

Elsie Reford's Villa

Elsie Reford's Villa

Main building

Explore the history of the gardens' visionary founder and her remarkable life.

International Garden Festival

International Garden Festival

Various garden plots

Experience innovative and contemporary landscape art installations by international designers.

Native and Exotic Plant Collections

Native and Exotic Plant Collections

Throughout the gardens

Wander through diverse themed gardens showcasing over 3,000 varieties of plants.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Reford Gardens

Discover Elsie Reford's legacy at Jardins de Métis, a stunning horticultural gem. Allow 2-3 hours to explore the diverse plant collections and art installations. Consider visiting during the International Garden Festival for contemporary designs.

Best Time to Experience the Gardens

The Reford Gardens are most vibrant from June to September. For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, aim for weekdays outside of peak summer holidays. Check for special events like the 'En Vogue' exhibition for unique experiences.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
June to September
Why
Peak bloom and pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
During Garden Festival
Why
Unique art installations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The inspiring stream garden (jardin du ruisseau) at Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis), one of a Canada’s finest public gardens and a piece of Canadian garden history. We finally made it, after hearing from garden friends for years about how beautiful it is. Although a long way from the big cities, it’s worth the long drive out to the Bas-Saint-Laurent region to see this remarkable place. #garden #...
chipsgardens
188 likes • 2K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are expansive with many paths; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring! Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the beauty and exhibits. Reddit

Nestled between sea and mountains, the Reford Gardens (Jardins de Métis) were born from a bold dream. In 1926, Elsie Reford transformed her salmon fishing property into an exceptional garden, defying the northern climate to grow rare species. Today, this Gaspesian gem blends historical heritage with contemporary art installations. Visitors discover over 3,000 plant species, including the famous bl...
mathieu.lamet
8 likes • 274 views
Jardins de Métis / Reford Gardens is a English-style gardens that host 3,000 varieties of native & exotic plants.
berline.dorlean
14 likes • 178 views

🍽️ Dining Options Available

Enjoy a meal at the gourmet restaurant or grab a snack at the coffee spots. Reddit

🖼️ Discover Art Installations

Don't miss the contemporary landscape art, especially during the festival. Instagram

One of the best gardens I’ve ever seen 📍Jardins de Métis / Reford Gardens #jardin #garden #jardinsdemetis #jardinagem
feresh_tea
3 likes • 162 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are expansive with many paths; comfortable footwear is a must for exploring! Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the beauty and exhibits. Reddit

🍽️ Dining Options Available

Enjoy a meal at the gourmet restaurant or grab a snack at the coffee spots. Reddit

🖼️ Discover Art Installations

Don't miss the contemporary landscape art, especially during the festival. Instagram

💡 Learn Elsie's Story

Visit the villa to understand the inspiring history of the gardens' founder. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Reford Gardens for its immaculate maintenance, stunning beauty, and tranquil atmosphere. Many highlight the diverse plant collections, the charming Stream Garden, and the insightful history of Elsie Reford. While the admission price is noted, most feel it's well worth the experience for a few hours of peaceful enjoyment.

"Highly recommend, we go every year, immaculately maintained large, sprawling gardens and paths with a pond, villa with exhibits, a gourmet restaurant and some snack and coffee spots, and even modern landscape festival. Spent a couple of hours on a beautiful day, enjoying the quiet and the beautiful smells. Hundreds of species of trees and flowers. A babbling brook flowing throughout. Definitely worth a few hours of your time; it will increase your quality of life."

julie fine

"Sooooo pretty !!!!! We spent the entire afternoon being amazed ! And there's a museum too! And a restaurant!!! Very nice place 👌"

Marlène Robert

"Incredible experience. Little you know about Elsie W The woman who made the garden and was such an emblantic figure. Go visit!"

leto BG

What People Like

Immaculately maintained gardens
Beautiful plant diversity
Tranquil stream garden

What People Dislike

Admission price noted

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reford Gardens are located in Grand-Métis, Quebec. The easiest way to reach them is by car, as they are situated in a more rural area. They are approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Quebec City and a 7-hour drive from Montreal. Public transport options are limited, so driving is highly recommended for flexibility. Instagram

Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the Reford Gardens. It's conveniently located near the entrance, making it easy to access the gardens and facilities. TikTok

Absolutely! Reford Gardens make for a fantastic day trip, especially if you're traveling along the scenic Route 132 in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the grounds. Reddit

Many visitors combine a trip to Reford Gardens with exploring the Gaspesie Peninsula, including Gaspesie National Park. The gardens are also part of a network of attractions offering discounts with your admission. Reddit

The most common route is via Highway 20 East, then taking Route 132 East along the St. Lawrence River. This scenic route offers beautiful views of the coastline. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reford Gardens are typically open daily from late May to mid-October. Hours can vary slightly by season, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

Admission prices are around $25 per person. This fee grants you access to all garden areas, exhibitions, and the villa. Reddit

It is highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season or for special events. This helps to secure your entry and can sometimes offer a slight discount. Instagram

Yes, your admission armband may offer a 15% discount at select other attractions on the peninsula. Check with the ticket office for current partnership details. Reddit

While beautiful year-round, the gardens are at their peak bloom from June to September. Weekday mornings offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Reford Gardens offers a diverse experience, including exploring themed gardens with over 3,000 plant varieties, viewing contemporary art installations during the International Garden Festival, visiting Elsie Reford's historic villa, and enjoying the tranquil stream garden. Instagram+1

Most visitors spend between 1 to 3 hours exploring the gardens, depending on their pace and interest in reading the informational displays. Reddit

While not always explicitly advertised, guided tours may be available, especially for groups. It's advisable to inquire at the visitor center upon arrival or check the official website for any scheduled tours. Instagram

Yes, Reford Gardens can be enjoyable for children, especially during the International Garden Festival with its interactive installations. The open spaces and natural beauty offer a pleasant experience for families. Instagram

The gardens feature restrooms, a gourmet restaurant, a snack bar, a boutique selling horticultural items and souvenirs, and the historic villa which houses exhibits. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Reford Gardens has a gourmet restaurant offering a delightful dining experience, as well as a snack and coffee spot for lighter fare. Reddit

The restaurant typically features locally sourced ingredients and offers a menu inspired by the region's culinary traditions, often with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce. Instagram

While there are dining facilities, it's generally best to check the official policy regarding outside food. Picnicking might be permitted in designated areas, but it's not widely advertised. Reddit

The gourmet restaurant is likely to be mid-range to high-end, reflecting the quality of the food and the beautiful setting. The snack bar offers more budget-friendly options. Reddit

It's advisable to contact the restaurant directly or check their menu online for specific dietary options. Many restaurants in Quebec are increasingly accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Stream Garden, the various themed flower beds, the historic villa, and the contemporary art installations all offer stunning photographic opportunities. The diverse plant life provides endless colorful backdrops. Instagram+1

Photography is generally permitted throughout the gardens for personal use. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in public gardens and parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check the Reford Gardens' official policy on drone usage. Instagram

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing landscapes and details. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flowers. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for expansive garden views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Reford Gardens offers a delightful experience for families. The expansive grounds provide plenty of space for children to explore and run around. The Stream Garden is particularly enchanting, with its gentle sounds and winding paths. During the International Garden Festival, many installations are interactive and engaging for younger visitors, sparking their imagination. Instagram

Consider packing snacks and drinks, though there are dining options available. The villa provides a glimpse into history, which can be made more engaging for kids by focusing on Elsie's adventurous spirit. Allow ample time for little legs to wander, and perhaps bring a small notebook for them to sketch their favorite flowers or installations. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Reford Gardens is a paradise. The Stream Garden offers beautiful reflections and soft light, especially in the morning. The themed gardens burst with color throughout the blooming season, providing endless opportunities for macro shots of flowers and wider landscape compositions. Instagram+1

The International Garden Festival installations are often visually striking and offer unique angles and perspectives. The historic Elsie Reford Villa also provides charming architectural details and historical context for your shots. Remember to visit during the golden hours for the best natural light. Instagram

🌿 Garden Enthusiasts

Garden enthusiasts will be in their element at Reford Gardens. With over 3,000 varieties of plants, the sheer diversity is astounding. Pay close attention to the native and exotic plant collections, noting how Elsie Reford successfully cultivated species that are challenging for the region. Instagram+1

The International Garden Festival is a must-see, showcasing innovative design and pushing horticultural boundaries. Take time to read the plant labels and learn about the specific species. The well-maintained paths and clear organization of the gardens make for an immersive and educational experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Visionary Elsie Reford

The Reford Gardens, or Jardins de Métis, are a testament to the passion and vision of Elsie Reford. In 1926, she transformed her salmon fishing lodge property into an extraordinary garden, defying the challenging northern climate to cultivate a remarkable array of plants. Her dedication to horticulture and her ability to coax rare species to thrive in this unique environment are truly inspiring. Instagram

Elsie's legacy is not just in the plants she grew, but in the creation of a space that blends natural beauty with artistic expression. Her personal villa, which visitors can explore, offers a glimpse into her life and the genesis of this horticultural masterpiece. The gardens continue to evolve, honoring her pioneering spirit while embracing contemporary design. Reddit

Today, the gardens are recognized as one of Canada's finest horticultural attractions, drawing visitors from far and wide. The story of Elsie Reford is central to the experience, adding a layer of historical depth and personal connection to the stunning landscapes. Instagram

The International Garden Festival

Each year, the Reford Gardens host the International Garden Festival, a vibrant showcase of contemporary landscape design. This event transforms sections of the gardens into outdoor galleries, featuring innovative and often whimsical installations created by designers from around the globe. It's a fantastic opportunity to see cutting-edge garden art and conceptual design. Instagram

The festival is a key attraction, offering a dynamic contrast to the historical gardens. Visitors can wander through these unique, temporary landscapes, each with its own theme and narrative. The installations often incorporate interactive elements and push the boundaries of traditional garden design, making for a thought-provoking and visually stimulating experience. Instagram

This annual event highlights the Reford Gardens' commitment to horticultural innovation and artistic expression. It provides a fresh perspective on the possibilities of garden spaces and adds a modern, evolving dimension to the visitor experience, making each visit potentially different from the last. Instagram

Exploring the Diverse Plant Collections

With over 3,000 varieties of native and exotic plants, the Reford Gardens are a botanist's dream. The gardens are meticulously organized into distinct areas, each showcasing different types of flora and landscaping styles. From the serene Stream Garden to the vibrant flower beds, there's a constant discovery of new colors, textures, and scents. Instagram+1

Visitors can marvel at the resilience of plants that thrive in this northern climate, a testament to Elsie Reford's horticultural prowess. The gardens feature a wide range of species, including numerous trees, shrubs, and perennials, many of which are rare or unusual. Informational signage helps visitors identify and learn about the diverse plant life. Instagram

The sheer scale and variety of the plant collections ensure that there is something to captivate every visitor. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate natural beauty, the meticulously maintained grounds offer a rich and rewarding sensory experience. Instagram

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