Over two weekends in November every year,  homes along selected routes in Elgin and Bot River allow the public to enjoy their beautiful gardens, ranging from large established country gardens to young, recently planted gardens. Here are a selection of photos from the places I visited this year.

Over two weekends in November every year,  homes along selected routes in Elgin and Bot River allow the public to see their beautiful gardens, ranging from large established country gardens to young, recently planted gardens. You can tuck into tea and scones, taste some wines, or enjoy a light meal. If you like meandering through stunning gardens then Elgin Open Gardens is for you.

Here are a selection of photos from the places I visited this year.

FRESH WOODS

This garden is a favourite of my friend’s father, so it is always first on the list! The gardens are quite remarkable (very well established) and you can expect to see some rare and interesting plants in the mix, along with magnificent Japanese Maples. They serve tea and scones and have plants for sale.

ALMENKERK WINE ESTATE

This was next on the list as I have never been here and there was the promise of wine! A wonderful discovery with incredible views, some interesting artworks and good wine! Their liver pate was delicious too. I will definitely go back in the near future!

RIDGELANDS

This lovely home with it’s magnificent verandah has a garden that was originally planted in the 1920’s, which is being restored. Here we found a charming fairy garden, a Magnolia tree (unfortunately not in flower) and a giant Tulip Tree. There was also wine tasting by Elgin Vintners and lovely spots outside on the lawn to enjoy it! They also had farm produce for sale, from jams to olive oil at very reasonable prices. 

LOTHIAN VINEYARDS

This is always the last stop, partly because it’s on the way home and partly because I like to leave the best for last! No words or photos can prepare you for the opulence of Lothian. You simply need to go! And if you are lucky like I was, they will bring you pizza, top up your wine and let you linger by the poolside while enjoying the sunset over the dam. It’s a wonderfully stylish way to end the day!

Published November 2017 | Own cost