Field Trip to Floral Paradise: An escape to BC for tulip treasures

Do you love tulips and need more of a flower fix? This article is for you! A road trip to the floral paradise of the Fraser Valley in British Columbia is an easy drive from Seattle and a spectacular visual adventure.

A Stone's Throw from Skagit Valley

As tulip season dwindles in the supple Skagit Valley, the neighboring Fraser Valley offers a perfect solution for Seattleites yearning for a springtime escape. This fertile region, cradled between the Coast Mountains and the Cascade Range, is a mere hop, skip, and a jump away, promising an enchanting weekend getaway.

Trade the bustle of the Emerald City for rolling farmlands, quaint towns, and, of course, fields overflowing with colorful tulips. Traipse through row after row of tulips from Abbotsford to Chilliwack to Agassiz, then settle in for a relaxing stay at the Sandpiper Resort in Harrison Mills, where you will find the perfect end to a beautiful day.

The Fraser Valley

Similar to Washington's climate, the Fraser Valley boasts a rich agricultural heritage and prolific soil that is particularly well-suited for flower cultivation.

We headed over the border at the Sumas crossing, which put us directly in downtown Abbotsford and only minutes away from our first tulip stop: Lakeland Flowers' Abbotsford Tulip Festival.

Lakeland Flowers

Step into a postcard-perfect scene at Lakeland Flowers in Abbotsford, where over 70 varieties of tulips sprawl across 35 acres.

Nick Warmerdam, farmer and owner, greeted us when we arrived. The Warmerdams are third-generation farmers. Nick explained that tulip farming is a generational tradition in the Netherlands and he is happy to continue it. In fact, he showed us a white tulip named after his 94-year-old father, Peter's Legacy.

Wandering through rows upon rows of vivid color, Nick pointed out the various varieties of tulips, including single-early blooms, fringe, double fringe, parrot, and Rembrandt. The ground here is very sandy, having once been the home of Sumas Lake, making the soil very rich and fertile. Great for growing a wide selection of flowers, when the tulips begin to fade in mid-May, this six-month flower festival will continue with crops of Peonies followed by Lavender in midsummer and Sunflowers into the early fall.

There is so much to absorb at Lakeland Flowers, that it isn't just about the flowers themselves; it's about creating an unforgettable experience. So dress for the weather, grab a bag of warm mini-donuts from a conveniently placed food truck, and snack on the perfect sweet treat to complement the visual feast before you.

The thoughtful touches throughout the fields add to the charm. We stopped for photos with a charmingly weathered old farm truck, a perfect prop for a rustic-themed picture. And for the musically inclined, there was even a piano waiting to be played, inviting visitors to add a touch of melody to this floral symphony.

Botanica Flower Festival in Chilliwack

After stopping for a fabulous noodle bowl at The Table Bistro in Abbotsford, we headed up the road, quite literally, to Chilliwack and our next flower field.

Chilliwack boasts the stunning Botanica Flower Festival, where over 1.5 million tulip bulbs burst into life each spring. With 59 unique varieties showcased on 13 acres, Botanica offers a dazzling display of floral artistry.

Stepping onto the grounds of Botanica Flower Festival, we were greeted by the warm smiles of Jenn and Mike Giesbrecht, the new owners embarking on their inaugural year at the helm. Their passion for sustainability and community resonated deeply. As environmentally conscious consumers ourselves, we were thrilled to learn that Botanica is Canada's first carbon-negative flower festival!

Jenn and Mike explained how they achieved this impressive feat with the help of their friends at PlunkIt EV. This innovative company transforms farm and timber waste into a carbon-rich form that nourishes the soil. We were impressed to see firsthand how the Giesbrechts enriched their tulip fields using this sustainable method. It became clear that giving back to the environment is more than just a tagline at Botanica; it's a core value woven into the very fabric of the festival.

But Botanica isn't just about eco-consciousness; it's about sharing the sheer joy of flowers. Jenn and Mike's enthusiasm was contagious. They desired to create an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. We wandered through fields bursting with vibrant blooms, each row offering a kaleidoscope of color.

For those seeking a hands-on experience, Botanica offers a delightful U-pick flower section. Imagine creating your own personalized bouquet, snipping fresh blooms directly from the fields! So many people were walking around with beautiful buckets of flowers. The festival caters to families and furry friends alike, offering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Sustainability extends beyond the flowers at Botanica. Their charming farm store showcases a bounty of locally sourced products, supporting other regional farmers and artisans. We couldn't resist browsing the selection of locally crafted jams, honey, and fresh produce. We may not be able to bring fresh-cut flowers back across the border, but the memorable moments we took away will stay with us. Botanica’s fields are a photographer’s paradise and a must-visit for anyone seeking an explosion of color.

For a truly unforgettable moment, Botanica boasts a magnificent Ferris wheel. Soaring to the top, visitors are treated to a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the tulip fields. Do you prefer on the ground? Try strolling hand-in-hand through the floral paths, soaking up the pure joy these tulips bring.

Later in the season, these fields will be all aglow with the golden hue of sunflowers, followed by a U-pick pumpkin patch.

We left Botanica Flowers as the sun began to set. Heading a bit further north and east to the town of Harrison Mills and our home for the next two nights, the Sandpiper Resort

Find Serenity at Sandpiper

Situated amongst the beauty of the Harrison River, our stay at the Sandpiper Resort proved a tranquil escape. We found our room in the crow's nest of Rowena's Inn, a 1920s-themed manor. It was like stepping back in time with its old-world charm, from our room's lovely nook window seating to the sash windows framing breathtaking views overlooking pristine gardens and the golf course. The king-sized bed was an invitation for pure relaxation, and the photos of the Pretty family, original owners of the inn, lining the downstairs hallway added historical reference as well as a personal touch.

Sandpiper Resort offers a variety of accommodations to suit every need. Beyond the charming elegance of Rowena's Inn, guests can choose from luxurious and classic rustic cabins. These cabins, ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms, pay homage to the local wildlife indigenous to the area. Find deep soaker tubs in each cabin, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The newest addition, the Woodland Cabins, incorporates a touch of Japanese serenity with their Canadian red cedar Ofuro soaking tubs. Modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and media streaming capabilities in the cabins ensure a comfortable and connected stay.

But why look at your screen when the show's true star is the surrounding landscape? Picture waking up to the gentle mist rolling in over the Harrison River or saying goodnight to the full moon shimmering on the water's surface.

Included on the resort grounds is the award-winning Sandpiper Golf Course and the River's Edge Clubhouse, which specializes in Northwest cuisine.

Arriving a little tardy for dinner at the River's Edge, we grabbed a late supper of pub grub at the Sasquatch Inn. After all, this area is Bigfoot country, so do as the locals do, right? And the cheese quesadilla with all the toppings paired well as we watched the Canucks hockey game on the tavern's big screen.

Harrison Tulip Festival Returns to Agassiz

Upon arrival at the Harrison Tulip Festival, we were warmly greeted by Kate Onos-Gilbert, the festival founder herself. This year marked the return of the Onos family and the tulip festival to the Harrison Valley. Kate's enthusiasm for flowers could be seen in her dedication to perfection on her farm. With her husband's family bringing their farming skills from Holland, the Onos Family has been a leading force in Canada's bulb and cut flower production. Their blooms grace gardens not just locally, but as far south as Seattle and down into California. Their commitment to the Fraser Valley extends beyond commerce; they are passionate about sharing their love of flowers and educating the community.

This year's festival promised to be their grandest yet. Kate proudly led us through the vibrant fields containing a staggering 10 million tulip, daffodil, and hyacinth bulbs. The sheer scale of the display flowers was breathtaking.

Found amidst the fertile grounds of Agassiz, near Harrison Hot Springs, the festival runs through mid-May, with approximately 50,000 visitors expected. Kate explained that this return to Agassiz marked a homecoming for the Onos Family. Their journey as pioneers of floral agritourism in the Fraser Valley began here in 2006 with Tulips of the Valley. After a decade of success, they captivated visitors with the iconic Chilliwack Tulip Festival. Now, returning to their roots, they celebrated the 18th annual tulip festival under their leadership.

The festival grounds themselves showed the Onos family's dedication to creating a truly immersive experience. From the 35 acres of vibrant landscapes awaiting exploration to the Secret Garden display area with its delightful blend of fruit trees and thousands of colorful blooms, visitors can retreat, sit for awhile, and truly immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Beyond the flowers, the festival catered to our stomachs, as well. Food trucks offered a variety of culinary adventures, from Poutine to Dutch stroopwafels to a sugary dessert aptly titled Sasquatch feet. And yes, the pastry is shaped like a large foot. Give one a try before heading out on your next Harrison Valley adventure.

Beyond the Tulips: Broadening Your Fraser Valley Adventure

Leaving Agassiz, we headed into Harrison, only about a 10-minute drive along Route 9, otherwise known as the Agassiz-Rosedale Hwy. The town of Harrison is quite charming, with a variety of shops and eateries.

There is even a Sasquatch Museum inside the beautifully restored visitor's center. Inside the museum, you can find a video of a 1967 sighting, plaster castings of found tracks, and a notebook cataloging the area sightings, with the last recorded date being 2022.

We popped into Muddy Waters for a lazy afternoon lunch of toasted cheese sandwiches and frothy London Fog lattes. Situated along the beachfront, the cafe patio is the perfect place to feel the sun on your face and do some people-watching. Be sure to pay a visit next door at Rocky Mountain Chocolates and grab some hand-made confections before you go. We sampled the milk chocolate Sasquatch feet on a stick, also available in dark chocolate.

Now, with full bellies, we turned our attention to our afternoon of wellness. Our itinerary included two of my favorite wellness activities: forest bathing and a long soak in warm mineral springs.

We found our way to the designated trailhead, where we met Kim Verigin, owner and guide for YaDoma Nature and Forest Therapy.

Offering year-round guided walks, Kim tailors each experience to meet your unique health and wellness needs. Even vacations can feel frantic at times. Step out of the bustle and allow yourself to experience Forest Therapy. Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku (forest bathing), forest therapy invites you to slow down and truly be present.

Kim led us through a meditation and a mindfulness walk, immersing us in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest and inviting us to connect with the calming ambiance.

Ya Doma's Forest Therapy walks are more than just a stroll in the woods. Studies have shown that spending time amongst the trees can reduce stress, boost your mood, and even improve your immune system. It's a beautiful way to spend an afternoon.

If the normal tourist attractions seem blasé and you are ready to really experience a place, then consider this your recommendation for YaDoma and forest bathing. You can thank me later.

Harrison Hot Springs Indoor Public Mineral Pool

Feeling pretty chill after our time in the woods, we moved on to the Harrison Hot Springs Indoor Public Mineral Pool. Run by the Resort and fed the same healing mineral waters, this indoor pool is available for public use. Its central location makes it easy to find and access. So, slip into the 35-degree Celsius water (95-degree Fahrenheit), soothe your tired muscles, and soak your cares away. This gem is worth it.

Our hot springs session left us feeling wonderfully relaxed, and with happy hearts, we strolled down the esplanade towards Morgan's Bistro for dinner. Known for their commitment to fresh, local ingredients, the restaurant specializes in West Coast cuisine with a focus on seafood. While the menu didn't initially have vegetarian options, the owner went above and beyond, offering us several delicious off-menu creations. The food was fantastic - fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. Morgan's Bistro is a definite go-to for future visits to Harrison Hot Springs.

Field Trip to Floral Paradise

The Fraser Valley beckons further exploration no matter which tulip destination you choose. Sample fresh produce at roadside farm stands along the Circle Farm Tour, which showcases the tastes and flavors of these anchoring towns. This valley holds something for everyone, from local cheese to handmade chocolates and fine wines.

So pack your passport, your camera, comfortable shoes, a sense of wonder and prepare to be enchanted by the Fraser Valley's tulip treasures. With their vibrant displays, welcoming atmosphere, and close proximity to Seattle, these floral havens offer a delightful escape for the whole family.

MaryRose Denton is a freelance writer for Seattle Refined. While the products, services and/or accommodations in this story were provided without charge, the opinions within are those of the author and the Seattle Refined editorial board.