Vergelegen’s spring gardens

Spring flowers, fascinating stories, heritage architecture and delicious scones – a new tour focusing on the gardens with Vergelegen’s horticulturist and garden manager.

We start at 9h30 when the garden is at its best. The impressive planting, includes indigenous trees, like yellowwoods, that take years to grow. The flowers, especially in the Octagonal Garden, will take your breath away.

In the Sundial Garden we will learn how the planting has shifted so that it looks good all year round. The in the Rose Garden in particular, the value and impact of scent.

The stories about the magic and majesty of the camphor trees, are balanced with how they are cared for and protected. No wonder they are a National Monument and visitors from around the world marvel at their size.

We break for tea and home-made scones in the Café Fleur (or nearby private studio, depending on . We have this beautiful space to ourselves – it is not open to the public.

Then our focus is the gardens. The estate’s head horticulturist, Richard Arm, leads this walkabout. He is joined by Chris Randlehoff who is responsible for plant propagation, cut flowers, fruit and vegetables.

09h30 – 10h55 garden tour by Penny Saunders including
11h00 – 11h40 tea and scones at Café Fleur
11h45 – 12h45 garden tour by Richard and Chris
12h45 – history, homestead and library

Cost paying at least 10 days in advance R450, then R650 each. This includes: entrance to the estate, tea/coffee and a scone at Café Fleur studio plus a briefing sent in advance with historical background.

To book: kate@cultureconnectsa.com 072 377 8014 (WhatsApp great) – please let me if you need a gluten free scone

Do join me for an optional lunch at Café Fleur (your own expense).