The Elgin Open Gardens 2025 invites visitors to explore nine exquisite country gardens across the Elgin Valley. Over two weekends — 1–2 November and 8–9 November 2025 — nature lovers can discover diverse plantings, historic homes, and creative landscapes in full bloom. Gardens are open from 09:30 to 16:00 each day.
Discover a New Addition: Fynbos Talks and Plant ID
This year introduces an exciting new feature. Visitors can join “Fynbos Talks and Plant ID” sessions, hosted over a relaxed country-style tea. Led by Andreas Groenewald, Green Mountain Trail guide and environmental educator, each 90-minute session costs R150 per person. Sessions run on both weekends, with small groups of around twelve participants.
Bookings are essential — email info@wildekrans.co.za to reserve your seat.
Special Exhibition: Helen van Stolk at Elgin Vintners
Visitors to Elgin Vintners can also enjoy a special solo exhibition by abstract artist Helen van Stolk. Based in Woodstock, Cape Town, her expressive paintings explore emotion, movement, and nature. Since 2008, she has held six solo exhibitions, completed an artist residency at Lion Sands Game Reserve, and exhibited internationally. Her works, celebrated for their vibrant colour and fluid textures, are featured in private and corporate collections worldwide. The exhibition is open in the Tasting Room from 10:00 to 16:00 on both Open Garden weekends.
Gardens Open for 2025
1. The Stone Kitchen – 22 Essenhout Ave, Klipkop
This mature organic garden features indigenous plantings, olive trees, and a thriving permaculture kitchen garden. Its rocky koppie setting and natural design showcase true waterwise principles.
2. Fresh Woods – off the N2
A romantic plantsman’s haven with heritage and species roses, Japanese maples, and rare woodland plants. Known for its bamboo walk and diverse shade garden.
3. Lavenham – Viljoenshoop Road
A peaceful garden surrounding a charming thatched cottage. Wide lawns, roses, and herbaceous borders create a tranquil English-country atmosphere.
4. Elgin Vintners Country House – Appletiser Road
This restored 1920s garden retains its formal stonework, wisteria pergola, and mature trees. Visitors can enjoy wines, pizzas, and panoramic views.
5 & 6. Keurbos Nursery Garden and Sonop – Restanwold Farm, Highlands Road
A natural garden designed for birds, blending indigenous and exotic plantings. Sonop features a rehabilitated landscape with guided tractor rides. Plant sales and garden teas available.
7. Auldearn – Highlands Road
A colourful hilltop garden overlooking the Kogelberg Biosphere. Flowering cherries, roses, and mixed plantings provide a striking seasonal display.
8. Houw Hoek Outspan – off the N2
Set against the Houw Hoek mountains, this ever-evolving garden bursts with roses, annuals, and birdlife. Visitors can enjoy tea, coffee, and light lunches on the stoep.
9. Wildekrans Country House – Houw Hoek, off the N2
A historic 1811 property with lawns, water ponds, and shaded groves beneath ancient trees. Contemporary sculptures and farm-style food complete the experience.
Plan Your Visit
Each garden offers a unique experience, from tranquil shade gardens to vibrant mountain views. Visitors can enjoy teas, homemade treats, and plant sales throughout the valley.
Most gardens do not allow dogs, so please check with owners before visiting. All participants donate part of their proceeds to local charities.
For more information, contact Barbara Knox-Shaw (021 844 0154 / 078 021 2101) or Jessie Walton (083 458 3790).
Visit www.elginopengardens.co.za or email info@elginopengardens.co.za for details.
