Flower lovers are in for a fragrant and floral treat as Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West unveils a dazzling line-up of seasonal botanical wonders across its renowned gardens.
A Field of Daisies
A radiant half-hectare carpet of orange and yellow Namaqualand daisies near the Stables Restaurant is already turning heads — and lenses — with its brilliant display. These eye-catching blooms are expected to flower until early August, creating the ultimate selfie spot for garden visitors.
Camellia Walks in Africa’s Only International Garden of Excellence
Home to Africa’s only International Camellia Garden of Excellence, and one of just 39 globally, Vergelegen invites guests to witness the splendour of pink, white, and red camellias blooming through to the end of August, with some varieties lasting until late October.
Exclusive guided camellia walks will take place on:
- Thursday 31 July
- Friday 1 August
- Saturday 2 August
Each walk runs from 10h00–12h00, limited to 40 guests per day. Tickets cost R295 per person, inclusive of estate access, a garden tour led by resident horticulturists Richard Arm and Chris Randlehoff, and tea or coffee with cake or a scone at the Café Fleur Studio.
Sweet Pea Promise
The East and Sundial gardens are being transformed with the planting of scented sweet peas. Expect a pastel profusion of pink, blue, and lilac hues to bloom between September and October, heralding the arrival of spring.
Save the Date: Festive Garden Weekend
Mark your calendars for Friday 17 to Sunday 19 October, when Vergelegen hosts its much-loved Garden Weekend. Activities include:
- Guided walks with horticulturists
- Plant sales featuring farm-propagated favourites such as hydrangeas, foxgloves, dianthus, alstroemeria, and more.
Romantic Roses & Timeless Heritage
The estate’s formal rose garden, arranged in a classic octagonal design, promises peak blooms from late October to November, with a second flush in January–February.
Meanwhile, the team is revitalising the Historic Octagonal Garden with foxgloves, Dutch iris, delphiniums, poppies, nigella, and more. These herbaceous borders will be in full bloom from October through February.
“The gardens team has planted 400 daffodils along the driveway, and two rows of weeping mulberries near the Octagonal Garden gate,” adds Randlehoff. “Expect delicate pink and white blossoms from peach, cherry, and crabapple trees in early spring.”
A Family Affair
The gardens are perfect for family outings. Children will love the new swings in the play area near the Stables Restaurant, while parents can relax at the Rose Terrace Tea Room, offering light meals, freshly baked cakes, and scones beside the blooming rose garden.
Visitor Info
- Estate Hours: Daily 08h30–17h00 (last entry 16h00)
- Entry Fee: R20 per person | R10 for pensioners & scholars | Free entry for pensioners on Mondays
- Camellia Walks: Book at www.vergelegen.co.za under ‘Events’
- Stables Restaurant Bookings: Email stables@vergelegen.co.za or call 021 847 2156
