Nature’s beauty is a gift that cultivates appreciation and gratitude. That said, gardening is not a rational act, which is probably why it is easier to appreciate the works of others. As we move through Spring, a number of gardens are opened to the public – some for a limited time only. We share a selection of must-see gardens that will reward the senses and bring much-needed serenity to your soul.
Like all things good and great, the Manor House Garden at Rustenberg is only open once a year to visitors (read our story on the gardens here). From Friday 30 October – Sunday 1 November 2020 the garden will be open between 9:30 – 16:30. Entrance is R50. Refreshments will be available under the oaks and there will be plants for sale.
Contact: 082 443 1721 or email rozanne@rustenburg.co.za
The iconic gardens of Old Nectar, created by Una van der Spuy over a period of 70 years is something to see. The gardens extend over 4 hectares with 16 individual garden areas to explore. The gardens are open to the public all year round. The Old Nectar Open Garden Annual Fundraiser takes place 31 October – 1 November 2020. Bring your own picnic basket; make a day of it and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
Contact: 0218661133/ 0824168475 or email: info@oldnectar.com
The Avondale Wine Estate garden and the private garden of Ginny Grieve will be open to the public 10:00 – 16:00 on 24 – 25 October 2020. In addition to the historic Cape Dutch buildings, lovely mature trees and working vegetable garden that supplies the estate’s award-winning Faber restaurant, stroll over the meandering streams; experience the indigenous beds, rose gardens and meadow; and watch the stately cows, working ducks and chickens in their free-range environment. Entrance fees will be donated to the Avondale Community Organisation (NPO) which provides a creche and a playschool, ensuring a safe and caring environment for the community’s young children.
Contact: wine@avondalewine.co.za or tel: 021-8631976
Elgin Open Gardens 2020 will see 7 gardens open in the Elgin district over two weekends to benefit local charities. These are Auldearn, Fresh Woods, Lavenham, Houw Hoek Outspan, Keurbos and Sonop, The Stone Kitchen and Wildekrans Country House. They range from large established country gardens to very young, recently planted gardens on farms and smallholdings, all in a setting of great natural beauty an hour’s drive from Cape Town.
Contact: +27 (0)21 844 0154 or email: info@elginopengardens.co.za
Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden is the oldest university botanical garden in South Africa, located in the historical centre of Stellenbosch. It houses an enormous diversity of plants from SA and around the world. Open daily 8:00 – 17:00.
Contact: +27 21 808 3054 or email: subg@sun.ac.za