Words & Photos Shelley Tice
Tucked into a quiet residential neighbourhood in Victoria, Abkhazi Garden offers a spring escape that feels both intimate and steeped in history.
Often referred to as “the garden that love built,” this one-acre heritage home and garden tells the story of Prince and Princess Abkhazi, whose vision and dedication transformed a rocky hillside into a living work of art.
May is one of the most magical times to visit. The garden comes alive with vibrant rhododendrons, some over a century old, creating a layered tapestry of colour beneath the trees.
Meandering paths lead you through carefully curated viewpoints, where each turn feels intentional yet natural. It is not a large garden, but that is part of its charm. A slow wander of around 30 minutes allows you to fully appreciate the textures, blooms and peaceful atmosphere.
What elevates a visit here is pairing your garden stroll with tea at the Abkhazi Teahouse. Set just above the garden, the teahouse offers high tea, with views that extend over the gardens.
Our favourite is the Elevenses service, a great selection of delicate tea sandwiches, a freshly baked scone and dessert, all served with your choice of local tea. It is an experience that naturally slows the pace, where conversation lingers as long as the tea.
Beyond the garden and tea, there is a small gift shop featuring local artisans, making it easy to linger a little longer. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, planning a Mother’s Day outing or looking for a place to visit with guests, this spot delivers something special.
There is also a deeper story here. The garden was once at risk of development but was protected through the efforts of The Land Conservancy of British Columbia and a dedicated group of volunteers. Their work ensures that this space remains accessible for everyone to enjoy, preserving not just the landscape but the legacy behind it.
This is one of our go-to spots for Mother’s Day, birthdays or any excuse to slow down and spend time together. I hope that you enjoy it as much as we did.
Things to Note
- Free street parking is available nearby
- Reservations are recommended for tea service: www.abkhaziteahouse.com
- Garden entrance is by donation at the gate
- Plan for about 30 minutes to explore the garden, or a couple of hours if including tea
- Spring is peak season for rhododendrons, so expect the garden at its most colourful
- Open daily from April through September
