If you’re planning a visit to Victoria, BC, and want to experience the beauty of Butchart Gardens, choosing the right transportation method makes your trip smooth and enjoyable. Traveling from Victoria to the gardens is straightforward, with options suited for different preferences and schedules.
Taking a bus is a convenient and budget-friendly choice. The most popular route involves catching the #75 bus from downtown Victoria. This bus operates regularly, and the trip typically takes around 45 minutes, passing through scenic areas before arriving near the gardens. Purchase a day pass or single fare, and look for stops at Butchart Gardens, ensuring a comfortable ride without parking concerns.
If you prefer comfort and flexibility, driving offers the advantage of direct access. From central Victoria, follow Highway 17 (Saanich Road) northbound, and then take McTavish Road west toward the gardens. Allocate approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking is available on-site, and traveling by car allows you to visit other nearby attractions at your own pace.
For the active traveler, renting a bike provides a scenic and healthy way to reach Butchart Gardens. The dedicated bike lanes along Highway 1 make for a safe ride, and the roughly 12 km route offers stunning coastal views and fresh air. Cycling from Victoria to the gardens can be completed in about an hour, making it a rewarding experience that combines transportation with sightseeing.
Whichever option you select, remember to check schedules, road conditions, and bike routes in advance. Victoria, BC offers a variety of ways to explore, ensuring your visit to Butchart Gardens is both memorable and effortless.
Travel Options from Victoria to Butchart Gardens: Navigating by Bus, Car, and Bike
For direct and flexible travel from Victoria to Butchart Gardens, renting a car provides the quickest route. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic, with parking available at the gardens. From downtown Victoria, follow BC-1 North and BC-17 South, or use GPS for real-time directions.
Bus transportation offers a budget-friendly alternative, with Victoria Regional Transit System operating routes to the gardens. Bus number 70 connects downtown Victoria to the gardens, with stops near the entrance. Check the latest schedules to plan your trip around seasonal variations and ensure a smooth ride.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic ride along dedicated bike paths and designated routes. The distance from Victoria to Butchart Gardens is around 20 kilometers, making it suitable for a half-day trip for experienced riders. Use maps tailored for cyclists, and consider starting early to avoid busy traffic hours.
Canada’s Vancouver Island showcases diverse options suitable for different preferences. Whether opting for the convenience of a car, the economy of a bus, or the adventure of biking, each choice provides a unique way to experience the route from Victoria to Butchart Gardens. Plan ahead by checking schedules, traffic updates, and bike routes to ensure a seamless journey.
Step-by-step directions and travel times for each transportation method from Victoria to Butchart Gardens
By bus: Start at Victoria’s bus terminal downtown. Board the BC Transit route 75 taken towards Sidney. Ride for approximately 45 minutes and exit at Butchart Gardens stop. From there, walk about 5 minutes to the garden entrance. The total travel time is around 50 minutes.
By car: Drive north on Johnson Street, then take BC-17 north – also known as the Victoria-Saanich Highway. Follow signs for Sidney and Saanich. After about 30 miles (48 km), follow signs for Butchart Gardens. Parking is available on-site. The drive typically lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions from Vancouver, Canada, especially during peak hours.
By bike: Begin at Victoria’s Inner Harbour, cycle along the Lochside Trail heading north. This dedicated bike path runs parallel to BC-17, providing a safe route. Continue 12 miles (20 km) through Saanich to reach Butchart Gardens. Expect at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the ride, depending on pace and stops. Make sure to carry water and verify your bike’s condition for a smooth trip from Victoria to Butchart Gardens.