A visit to Franschhoek is always rewarding, but for garden enthusiasts, never more so than during the annual Open Gardens weekend, which takes place from Friday October 21 to Sunday October 23, from 9am to 5pm, when 10 beautiful gardens will be open to the public.
There are several favourite gardens once more open for a visit, plus three which will be viewed for the first time.
There are two outstanding indigenous gardens on show – Montpellier, on the approach to Franschhoek, which deals with the problem of a garden on the slopes of a mountain by a clever series of paths descending through a huge variety of fynbos.
Also boasting an indigenous garden is Artemis House in the village. In addition to new areas of planting created since Artemis was last on view, there is now a glass gazebo boasting outstanding views, where a garden tea will be on sale.
Following the success last year of the introduction of live music by local performers in some of the gardens, this will be repeated in the delightful conservatory of Sandstone House and also at 36 Cabriere Street whose historic garden is once more on show.
This will be the third year for the successful “Garden in a Pot” competition, and there has been no shortage of contenders hoping to win one of the three prizes.
Tickets are available on the days in front of the Town Hall in the centre of the village, or from La Motte (cash or card).
If visting Montpelier first, tickets are available there, but cash only. All proceeds will go to Fleur de Lis, a home for the aged.
For more information email caroldy@live.co.za, glyndajacobs@gmail.com or gardnerjand@eject.co.za