⁕ Franschhoek Open Garden Festival
Open: 15 – 17 November 2024
The Franschhoek Open Garden festival prides itself on offering a diverse array of gardens, catering to various preferences. From charming village gardens to stunning expansive farm gardens, we have something to suit every taste. Each year, our aim is to introduce fresh and thrilling garden experiences. In this year’s festival, you can explore a total of eleven gardens: four of them are newly showcased, five have not been on display for two years or longer, and two gardens return from last year’s exhibition.
Time: 10:00 – 17:00
Gardens (and their details) open in 2024 are listed below:
We prefer visitors to not bring their animals with them as it can lead to conflict with some of the home owners’ pets.
All proceeds will go to Fleur de Lis Home for the Aged and to buy medical equipment for our local Emergency Response services.
Visitors can also enjoy the many spectacular gardens of the wine estates around Franschhoek. These are open to the public all year round.
Enquiries: 073 535 0007, fhkgardens@gmail.com. www.franschhoekopengardens.co.za
Contact Franschhoek Tourism on 021 876 2861 for information regarding accommodation, restaurants and other Franschhoek activities.
1.MONTPELLIER UPPER WATERFALL FARM (TURN OFF AT BRIDGE HOUSE)
Jane Landau
Experience the beauty of indigenous materials in this unique garden. From rocky soil to artful masterpiece, it’s a stunning oasis nestled against a mountain backdrop. Take a picturesque stroll by the stream to reach the magnificent main garden, offering breathtaking views from every angle. Jane’s exquisite touch ensures an unforgettable visit.
2.LEMON TREE CORNER 57 HUGUENOT STREET
Brian and Marilyn Moor
Meandering pathways guide you through this thoughtfully designed garden, The focus is on a visually appealing blend of textures and shades of grey and green, accentuated with vibrant pops of yellow, orange and purple. The result is a garden that offers year-round beauty and serenity.
The extensive lawn has been replaced with a waterwise Daisy Lawn (Lippia).
The surviving plants from the drought serve as a framework for the carefully curated selection of fynbos and succulents creating a unique and resilient oasis.
3.PARKVIEW GARDEN 7 MALHERBE STREET
Helen Siebert
Parkview garden is a charming complement to the Victorian-style house, showcasing a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The garden’s hydrangeas and roses flourish thanks to the borehole water, adding a touch of elegance to the space. This beloved garden is free from formality, making it relatable and accessible to all. It demonstrates how thoughtful plantings and a keen eye for design can come together to create delightful areas for relaxation and enjoyment.
4.BAGATELLE DE LA COTTE 37 DE WET STREET
Anneline Hofmeyr
Experience the breathtakingly beautiful garden, a true masterpiece crafted by its multi-talented owner Annelie. This expansive oasis boasts an array of stunning features, including shimmering water features, a soothing water rill, a manicured formal rose garden and a serene pond all perfectly harmonized with the majestic mountains that serve as a backdrop.
Decorative walkways lead to a diverse array of gardens each one more captivating than the last – a vibrant Spanish garden, a fascinating fynbos garden, a tranquil cottage garden and an informal indigenous garden. As you explore this extraordinary paradise, uncover the secrets and surprises that make it a treasure of horticultural design.
5.GARDEN HOUSE 29 DE WET STREET
Annette Phillips
Annette’s garden is a reflection of her love for nature and her desire to nurture it. Her Victorian garden is a charming oasis with terraces filled with colorful plants and trees. The garden’s majestic views of the surrounding mountains and treetops add to its serenity.
A large camphor tree, home to various bird species provides shade and a sense of tranquility. Annette’s care and attention to detail have created a beautiful and welcoming space where visitors can relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.
6: 29 AKADEMIE STREET
Louise Studd
A keen gardener from the U.K., Louise saw the complete redesign of her garden as an opportunity to learn about South African plants. The garden is a thoughtful and carefully planned space, completed in 2022 in close collaboration with local project manager Neil Young.
The front garden is entirely secluded behind jasmine-clad walls and showcases water wise indigenous grasses and succulents. A large freshwater pool is accessed directly from generous steps running the full width of the house.
A shady rear courtyard provides a quiet retreat, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
Louise’s attention to detail and love of nature have created a serene and inviting oasis.
7.LA COTTE FARM GARDEN 24 LA COTTE STREET
Explore a charming garden nestled in a historical Estate. Discover vibrant plantings, a captivating chicken coup and a serene pond surrounded by a swaying grass garden. Find solace in the inviting pool courtyard and uncover hidden treasures in the surrounding cottages each with its own characteristic English plantings. Prepare for an unforgettable experience of enchantment at every turn.
8.14 LOUIS BOTHA STREEET
Claire and Ray
Enter an immaculate wrap around garden that beautifully frames the home. Vibrant colours and intriguing plant varieties create a tapestry of natural wonders. Meticulously maintained beds and manicured edges exude beauty and harmony. Explore the entire perimeter for fresh and captivating views. Immerse yourself in this enchanting space, where beauty blooms at every step, creating a tranquil oasis of delight.
9. 28 VAN RIEBEECK STREET
Sue and Nick Norman
This charming town garden wraps around the house, inviting you to discover its hidden treasure a natural swimming pool. As you enter through the front gate, a formal layout gives way to expansive borders, curved beds to a serene natural swimming pool that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
The clever use of trees and shrubs transforms the garden’s corners from a dramatic, tropical oasis to traditional Cape charm. The spacious veranda offers the perfect vantage point to take in the beauty of this captivating garden.
10.FARM LORRAINE VERDUN ROAD
Beth and Bernie Cox
Tucked away like a hidden treasure, this enchanting garden unfolds as a delightful surprise. Nestled on the gentle slopes of the Franschhoek mountains, the garden’s meandering pathway invites you to wander around the serene lake, whose tranquil waters reflect the beauty of nature.
As you enter, a series of unique cypress arbors provide a shaded and intimate welcome, setting the tone for a peaceful journey. The garden’s orchard and vegetable garden burst with vibrant colors and textures.
In this idyllic setting, the lake’s calm waters and the garden’s lush surroundings converge to create a sense of deep tranquility.
ARTEMIS GARDEN – A TRIBUTE TO ANDREA DESMOND SMITH 1943-2024
Artemis garden will be open for viewing on the 16th and 17th November, as a tribute to Andrea who sadly passed away in February this year.
An artist’s oasis, Artemis is nestled amongst beautiful breathtaking landscapes. Andrea’s artistic genius brought this indigenous splendour to life. Prepare for a sensory journey through a garden blending wild beauty with indigenous flora. Discover bursts of colour, reflective ponds, sculptures and surprises at every turn. Immerse yourself in this enchanting space and be captivated by wonders at every turn.