GEORGE NEWS - Six beautiful gardens will open their gates to visitors when the Hoekwil Open Gardens weekend celebrates its 10th anniversary on Saturday and Sunday, 31 October and 1 November.

This popular annual event offers garden enthusiasts and families an opportunity to explore a variety of gardens against the scenic backdrop of Hoekwil's mountains, lakes and ocean views.

The last event was held four years ago when no fewer than 1 000 people visited the inspirational gardens.

This year's event will also hold special significance, as it is being dedicated to the memory of the late husband of organiser and participating gardener Dalene Strauss, André, who passed away in February. He is remembered for his infectious passion for gardening.

Visitors can look forward to six distinctly different gardens, ranging from carefully manicured formal layouts and traditional English gardens to indigenous landscapes and natural spaces designed to encourage wildlife.

According to co-organiser Jenny Smith, each garden offers something unique, with colourful flowers, water features, garden art and winding pathways creating an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Garden lovers can explore indigenous forests, admire aloes, ferns and fynbos and discover areas that have been rewilded to provide natural habitats for birds and other wildlife.

The event is once again supported by long-standing sponsor Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty. All proceeds will be donated to Hoekwil Primary School.

The gardens will be open from 09:00 to 16:00 on both days. Tickets cost R80 per person, with free entry for children under 12, and can be purchased at the school in Kerk Street on either day. 

A tea garden will also be available at the school for refreshments.

Enquiries: Magda van Zyl on 073 174 4186.

This year, visitors can look forward to six inspirational gardens available for viewing.‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’