Shortly before Christmas, we traveled to Vancouver Island to
see Butchart Gardens in winter. Anyone,
when thinking of the gardens, clearly imagines them at their finest in late
spring and early summer—awash with blossoms at every step. But winter also offers a subtle beauty that
is well worth the chilly stroll.
Originally known as “Benvenuto” (the Italian word for “welcome”),
the grounds exude every facet of the meaning of that word even now. Christmas decorations are placed throughout
the property among the trees, gazebos and arched walkways. Festive bows, garlands and oversized
ornaments adorn the sculptures, doorways and railings. Each turn brings a new surprise, and a smile,
as the sun slips low across the horizon on this winter day to create splashes
of light reflecting through greenery framed within marvelous shadows.
Walking through the grounds also leaves one alone
periodically along the sidewalks that wind through the gardens. It is in these moments that a visitor can
imagine being the owner of such fine place, out for a stroll in a private
garden of their own creation. It is easy
to see why the original owners, Jennie and Robert Butchart, spent from 1909 to
1939 involved in a labor of love that created this exotic place, culled from the
remnants of an exhausted limestone quarry.
Our ending was hot chocolate and a gingerbread cookie in
front of a stone hearth fireplace.
Nirvana…is achievable.
Sounds wonderful!
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