Words & Photos Shelley Tice
There is something about a garden in early fall that invites you to slow down. The bright abundance of summer is beginning to soften, the light feels warmer and the air carries those subtle earthy scents that signal the changing season.
On a sunny weekend, we spent a quiet morning exploring The Gardens at HCP, the nine-acre public garden at the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific on Quayle Road. Established in 1983, the Gardens are a place to wander without a particular agenda, stopping when something catches your eye and taking the time to notice what is changing with the season.
Our favourite was the Japanese Garden, where a running stream, dappled light and quiet pathways create a tranquil atmosphere. Despite encountering plenty of other visitors enjoying the sunshine, it never felt crowded. Some were stopping to admire the flowers, while others had found a bench and simply settled in for a while. We wandered through the Winter Garden too, stopping to take in some of the art nestled among the flowers.
What stayed with me most, though, were the scents. They weren’t overpowering, just the gentle fragrance of a garden moving towards fall. I noticed eucalyptus, along with the faint, earthy scent of the heathers. It was a reminder that experiencing a garden is about much more than what you see.
There is a strong sense of learning throughout HCP. At the entrance, small cuttings identify what is currently blooming, making it easy to put a name to something that catches your eye. During our visit, bouquets were available alongside a fall plant sale – an easy way to take a little piece of the Gardens home.
We paired our visit with lunch at one of my favourite spots, Charlotte & the Quail, which overlooks the Gardens. It is a popular spot, but we were lucky enough to secure a patio table, allowing us to continue enjoying the garden while we ate. My usual order – a kale salad with a bowl of soup and a Golden Sunrise Turmeric Latte – felt like the perfect taste of fall, particularly knowing that many of their ingredients are sourced from nearby farms.
Victoria has earned its nickname as the Garden City, and places like HCP make it easy to see why. If you’re looking for a garden adventure this fall, head to HCP for a beautiful garden to explore, something good to eat and a chance to slow down and enjoy the changing season.
Things to Note
- Where: The Gardens at HCP, 505 Quayle Road, Victoria.
- Parking: There is a parking lot on site, but spaces are limited, with additional parking along Quayle Road.
- Allow about an hour: HCP estimates that a garden visit takes approximately an hour, although you could easily spend longer if you want to linger.
- Check the calendar: HCP offers workshops, classes and other events throughout the year, so check the events calendar before you visit.
- Before you go: Hours and admission costs can change seasonally, so check the HCP website before heading out.
For current hours, admission and garden information, visit www.hcp.ca. For seasonal hours and menu information at Charlotte & the Quail, check www.charlotteandthequail.ca.
