Franschhoek Open Garden Festival 2023

Friday 3 – Sunday 5 November

Variety is the main attraction of the festival with gardens that range from small village gardens to beautiful large farm gardens, and every year something new and exciting. Other attractions include teas and scones, champagne and wine tasting. Discover local products inspired by indigenous plants, sourdough breads, plant sales, as well as captivating talks, a floral installation and a performance from our local cellist Carol Thorns.

Times: 10:00 – 17:00
Entrance: R200 to see all the gardens for the whole weekend. Tickets on sale in the Main Street in Franschhoek and on Web tickets. Brochures will have a detailed map of all the gardens. Free entrance for children under 12.
Enquiries: fhkgardens@gmail.com. Contact Franschhoek Tourism on 021 876 2861 for information regarding accommodation, restaurants and other Franschhoek activities. www.franschhoekopengardens.co.za

Mont Pellier – 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.

Fransvliet – R45 Main Road (just outside the village)

Vanessa du Plessis

Embark on a captivating journey through a diverse garden, filled with various planting concepts. Enjoy the traditional lemon and lime grove, the vibrant paths with colourful flowers and working vineyards that add character. Discover a tranquil courtyard oasis with a natural pool and fragrant raised herb beds. Prepare for an unforgettable experience of captivating wonders.

9 Roux Street

Willem van Schalkwyk

Discover a hidden gem – the private sanctuary of a celebrated floral artist, unveiled exclusively for this event. Despite its modest size, this garden exudes a wide spectrum of plantings from vibrant traditional town garden flowers to innovative succulent displays complemented by a compact herb and vegetable garden. Prepare for a modern horticultural experience that will ignite inspiration amongst garden owners, offering an enticing fusion of colours, textures and creativity. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this contemporary oasis of botanical artistry.

13 Roux Street

Henk Scholtz

Enter the imaginative world of renowned garden designer Henk Scholtz. His garden is a playful masterpiece, filled with intricate details and surprises. Geometry intertwines with mesmerizing visuals, showcasing his artistry. Despite its compact size, this waterwise garden captivates with ingenious design. It gained international recognition on BBC’s Around the World in Eighty Gardens. Prepare to be enchanted by this extraordinary masterpiece, where each step reveals a new wonder.

Artemis House – 37 Uitkyk Street

Andrea Desmond Smith

An artist’s oasis, nestled amidst breath-taking landscapes. 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 with every step.

Bagatelle de la Cotte – 37 De Wet Street

Anneline Hofmeyr

A new garden on show this year. Experience a large garden crafted by its talented owner, Anneline. Captivating water features including a water rill, formal gardens and a tranquil pond harmonize with majestic mountain vistas. Explore the rose garden, Spanish charm and cottage tranquility. Follow decorative walkways to a mesmerizing dry garden. Discover the secrets of this extraordinary paradise.

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.

14 Louis Botha Street

Claire and Ray

A new garden on show this year. Enter an immaculate wraparound 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.

Mayflower – 19 Cabriere Street

Cate and Tony Fishlock

Enter a captivating eco-garden with an enchanting eco-pool. Indigenous plantings and filtered water harmonize with the environment. Explore a water wise kitchen garden in raised planting boxes which a watering system based on wicking which uses 80% less water encouraging strong root growth. Discover serenity and connection with nature’s wonders in this thriving sanctuary of beauty.

La Sereine – Middagkrans Road

Dennis Hotz

The gardens at La Sereine are a breath-taking testament to the passion and creativity of the owner and the landscaping team. Nestled in the Franschhoek Valley, this carefully curated oasis overflows with a richness and diversity that enchants all who enter. The tapestry of colours and textures sweep harmoniously across the landscape, culminating in a display that is truly unique.