Lilly pond Abkhazi Garden
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Abkhazi Garden

4.6
·732 reviews·Victoria, Canada

A meticulously designed 1.4-acre garden with rhododendrons, ponds, and a historic teahouse, founded by Georgian royalty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Rhododendrons in bloom

CrowdLow
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Lilly pond Abkhazi Garden

Abkhazi Garden

Best Time

Spring mornings

Rhododendrons in bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A meticulously designed 1.4-acre garden with rhododendrons, ponds, and a historic teahouse, founded by Georgian royalty.

4.6
(732 reviews)

"A truly magical and unforgettable experience, enchanted by its beauty, tranquility, and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Book Tea House Ahead

Reservations are essential for the popular tea house. Don't miss out on this delightful experience!

💰 Donation Etiquette

While free, donations are encouraged. Some visitors suggest donating after your visit to fully appreciate the garden.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Enchanting Garden

The Enchanting Garden

Throughout the garden

A meticulously designed 1.4-acre oasis with rhododendrons, native rocks, and serene ponds.

The Historic Teahouse

The Historic Teahouse

On-site

Enjoy a delightful lunch or traditional afternoon tea amidst the garden's charm.

Prince & Princess Abkhazi's Story

Prince & Princess Abkhazi's Story

Garden entrance and information points

Discover the fascinating history of the garden's creation by Georgian royalty.

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Planning Your Visit

Donation Policy Nuances

While Abkhazi Garden is free to enter, donations are strongly encouraged. Some visitors report being asked for a minimum donation at the entrance, which can feel transactional. Consider this when budgeting and be prepared to donate after enjoying the beauty.

Tea House Reservations Essential

The popular on-site tea house offers a delightful experience, but reservations are a must. Plan ahead, especially if visiting during peak times, to secure your spot for lunch or afternoon tea.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Rhododendrons in bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon tea time
Why
Charming tea house experience
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Going to visit your fine city. But when and what to see?

📞 Book Tea House Ahead

Reservations are essential for the popular tea house. Don't miss out on this delightful experience! Reddit

💰 Donation Etiquette

While free, donations are encouraged. Some visitors suggest donating after your visit to fully appreciate the garden. Reddit

reddit.com

Best Bang for you Buck, High Tea recommendations?

reddit.com

Best Afternoon Tea for 10 Year Old Daughter?

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The garden's thoughtful design offers stunning backdrops for photography enthusiasts. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Every Path

Meander along the many intersecting paths to discover hidden nooks and cascading ponds. Reddit

reddit.com

Dress Etiquette for High Tea?

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Book Tea House Ahead

Reservations are essential for the popular tea house. Don't miss out on this delightful experience! Reddit

💰 Donation Etiquette

While free, donations are encouraged. Some visitors suggest donating after your visit to fully appreciate the garden. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The garden's thoughtful design offers stunning backdrops for photography enthusiasts. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Every Path

Meander along the many intersecting paths to discover hidden nooks and cascading ponds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(732 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Abkhazi Garden is widely praised for its spectacular beauty, meticulous care, and historical charm, offering a tranquil escape. Visitors are enchanted by the thoughtful design and the opportunity to learn about its royal founders. However, some guests have found the donation policy at the entrance to be pushy, detracting from the welcoming atmosphere.

"The Garden Itself:
Abkhazi Garden is truly spectacular, meticulously cared for, and brimming with charm. Its history—founded in 1946 by Georgian Prince Nicholas Abkhazi and his wife, Princess Marjorie—adds a fascinating layer to its beauty. Though the grounds may not be as vast as other gardens on the island, every corner is so thoughtfully designed that it feels like a living work of art, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

The Tea House:
The on-site tea house is a delightful spot for lunch or afternoon tea. The menu looks exquisite, and the popularity of the place (it was quite busy during our visit) suggests great food and service. However, reservations are a must, so plan ahead if you want to enjoy this part of the experience.

Donation Policy:
While the garden is officially free to enter, donations are encouraged—which is completely fair, given its upkeep. Unfortunately, our experience was severely tarnished by the way donations were solicited.

We were literally stopped at the entrance and told we could not enter without making a donation first. This felt pushy, inappropriate, and entirely at odds with the garden’s otherwise welcoming atmosphere. It completely overshadowed our visit.

A Suggestion for Improvement:
A more respectful approach would be to mention donations at the end of the visit, after guests have had a chance to appreciate the garden’s beauty. I would have happily donated—and generously—after seeing how well-maintained and stunning it was. But being cornered at the entrance left a sour taste and made the experience feel transactional rather than welcoming."

Polly Pinkus

"A quite lovely and beautifully maintained local garden. The honestly impressive scope of plants and trees, among cascading lily ponds and large natural stone terracing, keeps impressing as you meander along the many intersecting paths. Simply wonderful.

Be sure to get the garden's fascinating history from a volunteer, and donate what you can when visiting!"

Steven Starr

"Very nice and beautiful place! We went on a trip, and it was our last day of vacation in Victoria. We were on a tight budget and wanted to enjoy free attractions. But to our surprise, even though the website says entrance is free, we weren’t allowed to enter the garden without first making a “donation over 10 dlls.”
We felt a bit uncomfortable, as we didn’t have much money left. So I suggest that if visitors are not allowed in without donating, it would be more honest to list it as an entrance fee instead of calling it a donation.
Other than that, it’s a very beautiful place."

Dhamar Pinkus

What People Like

Spectacular garden beauty
Meticulously cared for
Fascinating history

What People Dislike

Pushy donation requests

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Abkhazi Garden is located in Victoria, BC. It's accessible by car, and there is parking available. Public transport options might also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area. Reddit

While the garden is beautifully designed, some paths may be narrow or have inclines. It's advisable to check with the garden directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Abkhazi Garden website or contact them directly for the most current operating times before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Abkhazi Garden officially states that entrance is free, but donations are strongly encouraged to support its upkeep. Some visitors have reported being asked for a minimum donation at the entrance. Reddit

Donation amounts are at your discretion. While there's no set fee, consider what you feel the experience is worth, especially given the garden's maintenance. Reddit

Officially, entry is free, but donations are vital for the garden's preservation. Some visitors have experienced a request for a donation upon entry. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for garden entry as it's donation-based. However, reservations are highly recommended for the tea house. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire garden offers beautiful photo opportunities, from the rhododendrons and ponds to the stone terracing. Look for charming nooks and scenic vistas. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged for personal use. The garden's beauty makes it a popular spot for photographers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Teahouse offers lunch and traditional afternoon tea, often featuring delicious and beautifully presented dishes. They are known for serving Silk Road tea. Reddit

Yes, reservations are a must for the Teahouse. It's a very popular spot, so booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Reddit

The Teahouse provides a delightful and charming setting, adding to the overall magical experience of visiting the garden. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Abkhazi Garden offers a peaceful escape that can be enjoyed by families. The winding paths and ponds provide a sense of discovery for children, encouraging them to explore the natural beauty. While it's a tranquil space, the garden's charm can captivate younger visitors, offering a gentle introduction to horticulture and history. Reddit

Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to wander more freely. The Teahouse can be a lovely treat, but it's important to manage expectations regarding noise levels in a serene environment. The historical aspect, shared by volunteers, might also engage older children interested in stories. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Abkhazi Garden is appealing for budget travelers as its official entry is free, relying on donations. This allows visitors to experience its beauty without a fixed admission cost. However, be aware that some visitors have reported being asked for a minimum donation at the entrance, which might impact those on a very strict budget. Reddit

To make the most of a budget visit, focus on enjoying the garden's natural splendor. Pack your own snacks or water, as on-site purchases can add up. If you choose to visit the Teahouse, consider it a splurge rather than a daily expense. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

The serene beauty and historical charm of Abkhazi Garden make it an ideal spot for couples seeking a romantic outing. Strolling hand-in-hand through the meticulously designed gardens, discovering hidden nooks, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere creates a perfect setting for connection. Reddit

Consider booking an afternoon tea at the Teahouse for a truly special experience. The intimate setting and delightful refreshments add a touch of elegance to a romantic visit. It's a place where you can share quiet moments and create lasting memories amidst stunning natural beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Abkhazi Garden

Abkhazi Garden is more than just a beautiful landscape; it's a living testament to the vision of Prince Nicholas Abkhazi and Princess Marjorie. Founded in 1946, the garden was meticulously cultivated over decades, transforming a sloping property into a serene and artful sanctuary. The Prince, a Georgian royal, and his wife poured their passion into creating a space that reflects both their heritage and their love for horticulture. Their story adds a unique layer of historical depth to the visitor experience, making it a place of both natural beauty and poignant remembrance. Reddit

Volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining the garden's splendor and sharing its rich history. Many visitors highlight the warmth and knowledge of these dedicated individuals, who often share fascinating anecdotes about the Abkhazis and the garden's evolution. This personal touch transforms a simple garden visit into an engaging historical journey, connecting guests to the legacy of its creators. Reddit

The garden's design itself is a masterpiece of thoughtful landscaping. Featuring native rocks, cascading lily ponds, and a diverse array of plants, including vibrant rhododendrons, every corner is designed to delight the senses. The winding paths encourage exploration, revealing new vistas and tranquil spots perfect for reflection. It's this blend of natural beauty, historical narrative, and dedicated care that makes Abkhazi Garden a truly special destination. Reddit

Experiencing the Teahouse

The on-site Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden is a highlight for many visitors, offering a delightful culinary experience within the garden's enchanting setting. It's renowned for serving traditional afternoon tea, complete with beautifully presented food and attentive service. The menu often features locally inspired dishes, making it a perfect spot to relax and savor the tranquility after exploring the grounds. Reddit

Due to its popularity, securing a table at the Teahouse requires advance reservations. Visitors consistently emphasize the importance of booking ahead, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to avoid disappointment. The charming ambiance, combined with delicious offerings, makes it a sought-after experience that complements the garden's overall appeal. Reddit

Guests often praise the grace and warmth of the Teahouse staff, noting how their service enhances the magical atmosphere. The combination of exquisite food, a picturesque setting, and friendly service contributes to an unforgettable outing, making the Teahouse a must-visit for those seeking a complete Abkhazi Garden experience. Reddit

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