Ronnings Garden on Vancouver island

Tucked near the northwest tip of Vancouver Island, Ronning’s Garden is a surreal blend of wilderness and curated beauty. Established in 1910 by Norwegian settler Bernt Ronning, this secluded garden thrives amid old-growth rainforests and rugged coastal landscapes. Known for its rare rhododendrons, towering Sitka spruces, and alpine blooms, Ronning’s Garden feels like a secret Eden. Located just 12 km from Cape Scott Provincial Park, it’s a must-visit for hikers, history buffs, and nature lovers seeking solitude. This guide covers how to visit, seasonal highlights, and tips for exploring this off-grid treasure.

History of Ronning’s Garden: From Homestead to Horticultural Wonder

In 1910, Bernt Ronning, a Norwegian immigrant, formed a homestead from Vancouver Island’s dense rainforest. Over decades, he transformed the land into a garden using seeds and plants sourced globally via mail-order catalogs. His most famous additions include giant rhododendrons and exotic trees like the now-iconic Monkey Puzzle Tree. After his death in 1963, the garden fell into disrepair until dedicated volunteers restored it in the 1990s. Today, it remains a testament to one man’s passion for botany amid wilderness.
Key Dates:
1910: Bernt Ronning establishes the garden.
1963: Ronning passes away; the garden declines.
1990s: Restoration begins by local conservation groups.

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why Ronnings Garden on Vancouver island ?

This garden isn’t just about flowers—it’s a story of resilience. Bernt Ronning’s vision, combined with its remote coastal setting, makes it a unique stop for those exploring Vancouver Island’s wild north. Ronnings Garden on Vancouver island BC , is more than five acres of wilderness garden that grow under the canopies of the area’s wild growth. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, or solitude seeker, Ronning’s Garden offers a rare escape into nature’s artistry.

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Location & Landscape: Where Wilderness Meets Wonder

Coordinates: 50.6472° N, 128.0833° W Nearest
Town: Holberg, BC (30 km southeast). Scenery & Vicinity Surrounded by old-growth rainforests and the San Josef River. A short drive from Cape Scott Provincial Park, known for its windswept beaches and First Nations history. Rugged terrain with moss-draped trees, fern-lined trails, and vibrant floral displays.

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Vancouver Island Activities near Ronnings Garden

Raft Cove Surfing

Write a diary now, but save your memories to review for the rest of your life. Assign one page to the adventure you will experience in Raft Cove Provincial Park. Nothing can be fascinating as much as a beach you can surf and camp on simultaneously, but the sandy beach there provides that for you. Low tides at Raft cove will motivate you to get on a surfing board and make your day meaningful.

Planning Your Visit to Ronnings Garden : Essential Information

Getting to Ronning’s Garden From Nanaimo

(BC Ferries Terminal): Route: BC-19 N → Holberg Rd → San Josef Main.
Distance: 443 km | Time: 5 hr 33 min.
Landmarks: Pass Port Hardy (last major town) before turning onto gravel Holberg Rd

Getting to Ronning’s Garden From Victoria

Admission & Hours Fee:

Facilities

Activity Near Ronnings Garden Vancouver Island Bc

Visiting the Ronnings Garden

The Ronnings Garden on Vancouver Island is a wonderful place to visit.Your visit begins with a brief walk along the old wagon trail, leading to a secluded green garden featuring diverse plants and trees, including what are believed to be Canada's two original monkey puzzle trees. Just like any garden the foliage and blooms change depending on the season so there’s always something new to see. It’s might be bit of a journey to get there but well worth the trip.

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Photography

Golden Hours: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light filtering through trees.
Must-Capture: The giant rhododendrons and the historic Ronning homestead ruins.

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Visiting the near by attractions

Nearby Attractions
Cape Scott Provincial Park: Hike to San Josef Bay (sea stacks and sandy beaches).
Holberg: Visit the Woss Loggers Memorial or stock up at the general store.
North Coast Trail: Multi-day coastal trek for adventurous hikers.

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Tranquil Pathways for a Relaxing Stroll

Main Trail: A 1 km loop through towering rhododendrons, azaleas, and rare Himalayan lilies.
Accessibility: Gravel paths with some uneven sections; not wheelchair-friendly.
Atmosphere: Serene and uncrowded, with birdsong and the murmur of the San Josef River

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Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

What you Can Expect to See Near Ronnings Garden

active pass lighthouse vancouver island

Nestled on the picturesque Mayne Island in British Columbia’s Gulf Islands, Active Pass Lighthouse is a historic beacon guiding mariners since 1885. Renowned for its dramatic coastal vistas and rich maritime heritage, this iconic lighthouse stands sentinel over Active Pass, a bustling shipping channel between the Salish Sea and the Strait of Georgia. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and evergreen forests, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of passing ferries, orcas, and seabirds.

Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward is the sixth-highest mountain on Vancouver Island. It is located in the center of Vancouver Island in Strathcona Provincial Park and is one of the most easily accessible mountains. Mt Albert Edward is a popular destination among mountaineers at 2093 m (6866 ft.) elevation. It was named for Albert Edward and was first ascended in 1890 by William Ralph. The mountain is a renowned place among mountaineers for skiing and snowshoeing in winters.

Maritime Museum of British Columbia

Ronnings Garden

Miracle Beach Provincial Park

Miracle Beach Provincial Park is a year-round oceanside destination that is among the popular and beautiful parks in Vancouver-Island. This park features a nice safe sandy beach which includes private campsites, group camping facilities, a playground for the kids, hot showers and a large picnic area that has nice views of the ocean.

Wild play Element Parks

If you intend to spend a lovely weekend out of the crowded city and all of its pollutions, Wild-play Elements park is an excellent choice for you. This park is situated near the Nanaimo River and inside the green area of Vancouver Island forest. The park is a great spot for meetings, events and weddings. Wild-play Element Park has eye-catching scenery and wildlife that changes every season and makes a perfect view.

Mount Douglas Beach

Mount Douglas Beach is one of the fantastic beaches that you can visit on Vancouver Island.
Go there at sunset for an experience of peace, Mount Douglas is a small beach, but at low tide, the water opens a wide area, and you will able to see Marine life on the beach.

Oak Bay

Just 3.8 km (2.36 miles) east of downtown Victoria, Oak Bay is a picturesque seaside suburb where heritage charm meets Pacific Northwest beauty. Known for its tree-lined avenues, Edwardian mansions, and panoramic ocean views, this neighborhood offers a serene escape with a touch of British flair.

Nahmint Lake

Nestled beneath old-growth rainforests, Nahmint Lake is perfect in many ways. The view of the mountains, which is spectacular by the way; long, deep, and cool water perfect for water activities such as canoeing, and fantastic beaches for camping to enjoy a day or even a whole weekend with your family and friends. Blackies beach offers a breath-taking scenery of the lake great for a long walk along the shorelines of it. Also a great spot to camp and spend quality time with friends and family.

Muir Creek Beach

Tucked along the rugged shores of the Juan de Fuca Strait, Muir Creek Beach is a hidden paradise for adventurers and history buffs alike. Named after the pioneering Muir family, who shaped the region’s early logging industry, this beach offers a unique blend of natural wonders and historical intrigue. Walk sandy shores dotted with driftwood, hunt for ancient whale bones embedded in cliffs, or relax under a handmade tree swing while listening to Pacific waves

Iron Mine Bay

Nestled within East Sooke Regional Park, Iron Mine Bay is a rugged, lesser-known coastal paradise on southern Vancouver Island. Famous for its pebbly shoreline, dramatic cliffs, and historical copper mining roots, this bay offers a raw, untouched escape for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Located just 45 minutes from Victoria, Iron Mine Bay is part of a 1,400-hectare park that blends lush old-growth forests with jaw-dropping ocean vistas of the Juan de Fuca Strait.

Qualicum Art Supply & Gallery

Sayward Beach

Sayward Beach is one of the beaches that you can access from Cordova Bay Road. It offers a great sandy beach that is excellent for sunbathing and getting the sun's pleasant heat on a warm summer day.Sayward Bay is also suitable for children; children have a shallow shoreline to play in the water safely and enjoy their leisure time.In the afternoon, watching the sky that changing color and becoming orange and seeing the sun that visiting the ocean can make you forget the passage of time. If you come in winter, you don't lose anything; Sayward Beach is still a wonderful, as the people of Vancouver island get ready for the polar bear swim or even be able to witness the snowing view of the beach and the surrounded area.

Ella Beach

Nestled at the end of Ella Road in Sooke, Ella Beach is one of Vancouver Island’s less crowded island. This secluded pebble beach offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains across the Juan de Fuca Strait, making it a must-visit for travelers craving rugged coastal beauty without the crowds. A short 45-minute drive from Victoria. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or nature lover, this guide covers everything you need to know—from tide-safe exploration to hidden trail tips.

St Mary Lake

Discover the serene beauty of St Mary Lake—a gem in the Capital Regional District of BC that offers a perfect blend of water sports, hiking, camping, and cultural heritage. Nestled amid lush forests and sparkling waters, St Mary Lake is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat on Vancouver Island

Best Time to Visit Ronnings Garden

For Peak Blooms
Late May–June: Rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom.
July–August: Alpine flowers and lush greenery.
September: Fall foliage contrasts with evergreen giants.

Month	Weather Conditions	Trail Accessibility	Considerations
May	Variable; cooler temperatures with increased rainfall.	Trail open; some campsites may be closed.	Less crowded; prepare for wet conditions.
June	Mild temperatures; moderate rainfall.	Trail open; most campsites operational.	Increasing number of hikers; moderate weather.
July	Warmer temperatures; drier conditions.	Trail open; all campsites operational.	Peak season; higher demand for permits.
August	Warm temperatures; drier conditions.	Trail open; all campsites operational.	Peak season; higher demand for permits.
September	Cooling temperatures; increased rainfall.	Trail open; some campsites may be closed.	Less crowded; prepare for variable weather.

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Variable; cooler temperatures with increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for wet conditions.

June

Mild temperatures; moderate rainfall.

Trail open; most campsites operational.

Increasing number of hikers; moderate weather.