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Archive for July 6th, 2011

Jackie is passionate about plants and gardens! Hence, she has developed a repertoire of beautiful gardens which may be visited – both in the public and private sphere.

The one public garden which cannot be missed is Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens which sports a collection of roughly a third of the plants of Southern African origin.

Thus, the emphasis is largely on indigenous plants in Southern Africa as well as plants belonging to the Cape Floral Kingdom, also known as Fynbos (translated as Fine Leafed Bush). The Proteacea Family, as well as Ericas or Heath varieties, Restios or Reeds, bulbs,  succulents and many more are represented in the unique Fynbos realm. Many of these plants have medicinal properties which have been known and exploited for centuries.

The gardens are laid out on the sloping rear of Table Mountain – land which was bequeathed to the nation when Cecil John Rhodes (erstwhile Prime Minister of the Cape Colony and founder of De Beers diamonds) died in 1902. The views accross the Cape Flats were the favourite of Rhodes.

The hard landscaping, held in place by a series of sweeping terraces, is divided into several sections, very effectively showcasing such diverse specimens as succulents, cycads, seasonal spring daisies, a braille trail, a scented garden, endangered plants, useful plants, medicinal plants, proteas, waterwise gardening examples etc.

The gardens  may be visited on foot or by Golf Cart for those with walking difficulties.

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In addition we can, according to your interests,  incorporate a visit to the Spier Cheetah Outreach Project, Interractive Raptor Displays, Rupert Vintage Car Collection or Art Museum, Slave Museum, worker empowerment projects and even visit a well known Potter’s studio.

There are many opportunities to browse shops in quaint towns en route. The region features plenty of other activities and sites which will appeal to both young and old.


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There are several Estates producing fine Organic Wines in the Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch regions. 

A selection of these will serve to introduce you to new endeavours  in this field which  some wine makers are exploring.

In addition, learn about Biodynamic farming practices (inspired by Rudolph Steiner) and experience the hand crafted products first hand.

Drakenstein Valley Panorama

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