An early spring has stirred Benvie Gardens into life, with azaleas and c livias bursting into flower in a glorious celebration of colour. This much- loved garden is opening its gates ahead of schedule, inviting visitors to s hare in its seasonal magic. Benvie Gardens will be open from this weekend ( Sat 6 Sept) right through to Sunday 12 October.
Benvie Gardens offer a truly immersive experience. The layout encourages slow, thoughtful wander ing—pausing to admire reflections on the water or the shifting light throug h tall conifers. Benches and open spaces offer perfect picnic spots, so vis itors are welcome to bring a basket and stay awhile. Benvie is more than ju st a garden—it’s a living legacy. Its mature trees and carefully maintained paths speak to over a century of quiet devotion and a love of the land. As part of the Blackwood’s Open Midlands Gardens, it remains one of the most treasured and unforgettable stops on the route.
Designed as a circula r walk, the garden invites visitors to stroll beneath a towering canopy of exotic trees from around the world. These majestic giants form a backdrop f or sweeping lawns, tranquil ponds and a dazzling display of flowering Azale as, Azalea Mollis and Rhododendrons.
Established by John Geekie over 130 years ago and still cared for by his descendants, this 30-hectare arbor etum has become one of the most celebrated gardens in the KwaZulu-Natal Mid lands.
Open Garden Dates: Sat 6 Sept - Sun 12 October
Times: 9am
to 4pm
Entrance Fee: R50 p/p
Directions: Take the Karkloof Road
from Howick. Travel for 33km and that point turn right on the York/New Hano
ver Road. There is a Benvie sign there. Travel down the York Road for 3km a
nd follow the Benvie signs. Plants will be available for sale
An early spring has stirred Benvie Gardens into life, with azaleas and c livias bursting into flower in a glorious celebration of colour. This much- loved garden is opening its gates ahead of schedule, inviting visitors to s hare in its seasonal magic. Benvie Gardens will be open from this weekend ( Sat 6 Sept) right through to Sunday 12 October.
Benvie Gardens offer a truly immersive experience. The layout encourages slow, thoughtful wander ing—pausing to admire reflections on the water or the shifting light throug h tall conifers. Benches and open spaces offer perfect picnic spots, so vis itors are welcome to bring a basket and stay awhile. Benvie is more than ju st a garden—it’s a living legacy. Its mature trees and carefully maintained paths speak to over a century of quiet devotion and a love of the land. As part of the Blackwood’s Open Midlands Gardens, it remains one of the most treasured and unforgettable stops on the route.
Designed as a circula r walk, the garden invites visitors to stroll beneath a towering canopy of exotic trees from around the world. These majestic giants form a backdrop f or sweeping lawns, tranquil ponds and a dazzling display of flowering Azale as, Azalea Mollis and Rhododendrons.
Established by John Geekie over 130 years ago and still cared for by his descendants, this 30-hectare arbor etum has become one of the most celebrated gardens in the KwaZulu-Natal Mid lands.
Open Garden Dates: Sat 6 Sept - Sun 12 October
Times: 9am
to 4pm
Entrance Fee: R50 p/p
Directions: Take the Karkloof Road
from Howick. Travel for 33km and that point turn right on the York/New Hano
ver Road. There is a Benvie sign there. Travel down the York Road for 3km a
nd follow the Benvie signs. Plants will be available for sale