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± 12 ha Prime leisure property with development opportunities | 22 Keys 4-Star Boutique Hotel, vibrant restaurant and modern conference facility | 30 Acres of pristine Gardens with a strong international artistic flair | One of only two National Hospitality Venues with Universal Accessibility (AU) Grading
In 1976 Leslie Riggall, 'Plantsman' extraordinaire, bought a 20 acre property in Kloof which over 25 years he expanded to its present size of 30 acres. The Garden specializes in camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, orchids and bromeliads. Some of the afore-mentioned were imported from Japan, China, France and the US. A large number of Orchids are grown on trees and logs with many in the ground. The garden comprises exotic & indigenous flora. The latter come into their own in the winter months with many different types of Aloe & numerous succulents serving to attract beautiful sun birds. Erythrina trees with their red flowers also bloom when the weather cools. In summer large beds of sky blue agapanthus & hydrangeas are a delight as are the many coloured day lilies. Hundreds of clivia miniata light up the forest areas in spring ranging in colour from deep orange to pale cream.
A series of ponds flow in the natural meandering stream some of which form the focus of the authentic Japanese Garden, which delights visitors with its original stone bridges, statues and lanterns imported from Japan.
Chick and Danna Flack bought the property in January 2002. The Flacks created a luxury Lodge in order to try and sustain the cost of the gardens. The lodge, which is wheel-chair friendly both indoors and throughout the garden is housed in a Charitable Trust, This Not-for-Gain Trust acts as custodian of the Garden for the benefit of you, the community with the shortfall funded by the Flack Family.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this unique property which embraces the family market . A play area has been introduced & an enchanted garden nestles in the forest. There is also a labyrinth for some real soul searching. The swimming pool is open to all.
Guided tours are available on request with a horticulturalist and the cost of this is dependent on the number of people. For a small charge guests can book to be taken around the garden in a golf cart by a member of staff.
The garden work-force required to maintain the property in a pristine condition numbers approximately 23 led by Mr. Vernon Mclucky and Claudia Bezuidenhout. Danna Flack is also very involved in the garden. One of the most interesting features on view is the large collection of Shona stone carvings which art form The Flacks are passionate about.
There are two Cycad areas – one promoting exotic species and the other a show-case for Cycads from the African continent, There is also a formal Italian garden which displays statues from Italy including a carved 2 meter high carrara marble copy of Michelangelo's 'DAVID'. There are several other pieces from Italy on show in the gardens.
We invite you to enjoy the gardens, to respect them and to feed off the healing and respite they offer. You are welcome to experience them with a Picnic available from The Deli. Enjoy a meal at NONNA or a refreshment from The Library Bar on the deck before or after your garden visit. All of this has been designed for your maximum enjoyment so come.... and FEED YOUR SOUL.
