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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rhododendrons in bloom

Abkhazi Garden
Best Time
Rhododendrons in bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A meticulously designed 1.4-acre garden with rhododendrons, ponds, and a historic teahouse, founded by Georgian royalty.
"A truly magical and unforgettable experience, enchanted by its beauty, tranquility, and history."

📞 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Enchanting Garden
Throughout the garden
A meticulously designed 1.4-acre oasis with rhododendrons, native rocks, and serene ponds.

The Historic Teahouse
On-site
Enjoy a delightful lunch or traditional afternoon tea amidst the garden's charm.

Prince & Princess Abkhazi's Story
Garden entrance and information points
Discover the fascinating history of the garden's creation by Georgian royalty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Donation Policy Nuances
Tea House Reservations Essential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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!
💰 Donation Etiquette
While free, donations are encouraged. Some visitors suggest donating after your visit to fully appreciate the garden.
Best Bang for you Buck, High Tea recommendations?
Best Afternoon Tea for 10 Year Old Daughter?
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The garden's thoughtful design offers stunning backdrops for photography enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Explore Every Path
Meander along the many intersecting paths to discover hidden nooks and cascading ponds.
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!
💰 Donation Etiquette
While free, donations are encouraged. Some visitors suggest donating after your visit to fully appreciate the garden.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The garden's thoughtful design offers stunning backdrops for photography enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Explore Every Path
Meander along the many intersecting paths to discover hidden nooks and cascading ponds.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Officially, entry is free, but donations are vital for the garden's preservation. Some visitors have experienced a request for a donation upon entry.
No, tickets are not required for garden entry as it's donation-based. However, reservations are highly recommended for the tea house.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire garden offers beautiful photo opportunities, from the rhododendrons and ponds to the stone terracing. Look for charming nooks and scenic vistas.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged for personal use. The garden's beauty makes it a popular spot for photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Yes, reservations are a must for the Teahouse. It's a very popular spot, so booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
The Teahouse provides a delightful and charming setting, adding to the overall magical experience of visiting the garden.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Abkhazi Garden
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.
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.
Experiencing the Teahouse
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit