This 11-hectare (27-acre) public garden opened in 1998, using the former grounds of a long-gone estate. The designers incorporated the existing high hedges and trees, and have ambitiously planted open space around the mature plants. The project has become a noted stop for garden lovers. In fact, Kingsbrae has won many awards, including Canadian Garden of the Year and one of the “Top Five North American Gardens Worth Traveling For” at the International Garden Tourism Conference.

Its designers incorporated existing hedges and trees into theme gardens. Almost 2,000 varieties of trees, some extremely rare, are among the 50,000 perennials. Notable features include a day-lily collection; an extensive rose garden; a cedar maze; a fully functional Dutch windmill; and a children’s garden with an elaborate Victorian-mansion playhouse. The Garden Café has a patio with lovely views over the lawns to the bay below. There’s a gift shop, art gallery, and plant center on the premises. Those with a horticultural bent should plan to spend a few hours here, strolling, marveling, and enjoying.

Tip: A personal, motorized golf cart tour is available for those who might have difficulty walking the length of these gardens.