2025 Helderberg Hospice Open Gardens Festival

Friday 24 – Sunday 26 October 

The annual Helderberg Hospice Open Gardens Festival is a cherished celebration of nature, beauty and compassion. This much-loved event invites visitors to explore more than ten unique and captivating gardens across the Helderberg region – each one offering its own special charm. From intimate courtyards to sweeping landscapes, you’ll discover vibrant floral displays, tranquil water features, and creative garden design sure to inspire garden enthusiasts of all kinds. These mostly private gardens are generously opened to the public in support of Helderberg Hospice’s palliative care services. 

Time: 09:00-16:00 

Entrance: Tickets are available for purchase on www.helderberghospice.org.za/shop, or from Helderberg Hospice at 21 Old Stellenbosch Road, Somerset West. 

Adults: R120, Pensioners R90 

Enquiries: www.helderberghospice.org.za, or call Celéstine on 021 852 4608 or 076 062 5855 

GEMMEL GARDEN 

Perched on Sir Lowry’s Pass, this garden blends seamlessly with its mountain surroundings. Clever planting creates sweeping views, vibrant with colour and texture. Meandering paths lead to tranquil seating, a reflective pond, and a small labyrinth offering a serene, immersive escape in harmony with the natural landscape. 

GOLDEN EYE 

High above False Bay, this six-acre garden offers sweeping views, vibrant succulents, a lush bromeliad grotto, and tranquil resting spots. Winding paths reveal hidden sanctuaries, rose gardens and expansive lawns. A sensory retreat lovingly crafted since 1991. Steep entrance stairs. 

SNYMAN GARDEN 

An adventurous, sloped garden with stunning views over False Bay. Meandering paths lead through colourful plantings of clivia, vygies, and geraniums. Highlights include a new orchid house and a tranquil, shady courtyard. Rich in texture, birdlife, and charm, it offers a deeply personal, immersive experience in nature. 

DE VILLIERS GARDEN 

A lovingly maintained, waterwise garden invites exploration with white gravel paths, vibrant succulents, whimsical décor, and hidden corners. Surprises unfold at every turn, from sculptures to a secret garden. This small suburban space feels expansive and joyful – a tranquil, imaginative sanctuary that inspires visitors to pause, reflect, and appreciate its quiet magic. 

HELDERBERG HOSPICE GARDEN 

The Helderberg Hospice garden features a nursery, rose garden, majestic trees and a tranquil Garden of Remembrance. Volunteers lovingly maintain the space. Enjoy peaceful moments on recycled benches, or walk the new spekboom labyrinth, created in honour of founder Pat Pigeon.