The Butchart Gardens draw more than a million visitors to the Saanich Peninsula every year to experience world-class gardens and incredible scenery. Designated a National Historic Site due to its international acclaim, the gardens offer vibrant displays of verdant plant life and scenic pathways, allowing visitors incredible opportunities to explore graceful fountains, recreated Japanese temples, and renaissance-inspired displays.  This 3-hour tour starts with a pickup from any Victoria-based hotel or lodging. After meeting the driver and tour host, travel through 30 minutes of strikingly lush, natural scenery en route to the gardens. The guide will intersperse bad jokes and personal anecdotes with a careful narration of the history and details of the Saanich Peninsula. He/she will provide the necessary context to truly understand the Butchart Gardens, helping travelers appreciate the unique qualities that make the displays a national treasure. Admission to Butchart Gardens is not included. The elaborate gardens include an incredible diversity of recreated landscapes from all over the world, such as the Japanese Garden, English Rose display, and the Italian Star pond, featuring a statue of Mercury. Take approximately 90 minutes to smell the naturally perfumed air and photograph the bright colors before heading back to the guide to solicit a recommendation for the best place to eat lunch.   After completing the visit, ride back to Victoria to a centrally located hotel or bed and breakfast for a complimentary drop-off or airport/ferry exchange.