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One of Canada’s premier garden destinations for the past 50 years, the Reford Gardens/Jardins de Métis are recognized as one of Canada’s outstanding gardens. A national historic site, they were created by a passionate gardener and plant lover, Elsie Reford, between 1926 and 1958. Visitors to this verdant domain of more 200 acres can admire the splendours of some 3,000 species and varieties of native and exotic plants displayed in fifteen gardens. New this year: Elsie’s vegetable garden and a museum of gardener’s tools.

One of the highlights of any visit is Estevan Lodge, the 1887 fishing lodge built by Lord Mount Stephen that celebrates its 125th anniversary. Today, it welcomes visitors to its dining rooms and temporary exhibitions. In the museum explore the remarkable story of Elsie Reford and her summers spent salmon-fishing and gardening. Or let us entice you to the gardens for Sunday brunch or a literary tea in the company of a noted author. Our chef prepares his menu daily to feature local produce and flowers picked in the gardens. The dining rooms offer lunch throughout the week.

From June 23, the International Garden Festival presents conceptual gardens by leading designers from around the world.  On exhibit are some of the most imaginative gardens to be seen anywhere, enough to excite the cultural tourist and offering a giant playground on interactive spaces for children and families.

Umbrellas are available in the event of rain. Wheelchairs are available free of charge (reservations suggested).

• Hours: Open every day from June 2 to September 30. The gardens open at 8:30 am and close at 6 pm in June and September (last admission at 5 pm) and 8 pm in July and August (last admission at 6 pm).
• Admission fees. Free for children 13 and under.
• Accommodation packages available with more than 50 hotels, motels, auberges and B&Bs in the area.