The Gardens
INTRODUCTION TO THE GARDENS
The Rustenberg Estate has two spectacular garden experiences – the public Schoongezicht Garden, and the private Rustenberg Garden.
The Schoongezicht Garden is open to the public during Tasting Room opening hours. Visitors to the garden are also welcome to wander up to our Tasting Room to enjoy our wines.
The Rustenberg Garden is a private garden, but is opened to the public once a year for our Rustenberg Open Weekend. Check our News for the dates and details of this year’s Open Garden.
Longbarn Nursery:
Did you know that Rustenberg Estate is home to a hidden gem? Introducing Longbarn Nursery, our secret haven for all things green and beautiful.
Explore Longbarn: Step into a world of botanical wonders where you’ll find an exquisite collection of plants, from rare specimens to beloved favourites. Discover the perfect additions to your own garden sanctuary.
Expert Advice: Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you in selecting the ideal plants for your unique gardening needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your green-thumb journey, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Appointment Only: Longbarn Nursery offers a personalized experience for plant enthusiasts. To ensure the utmost care and attention, visits are by appointment only. Contact Pietman at 072 376 5632 to secure your visit to Longbarn Nursery and unlock a world of botanical wonders.
Instagram: @longbarnnursery
You can also find more information on the gardens by visiting our Gardens of Rustenberg Facebook Page.
SCHOONGEZICHT GARDEN
The Schoongezicht Garden is situated next to the Cape Dutch homestead Schoongezicht, which dates back to 1814. In 2001, Rozanne Barlow, wife of the current owner of the Rustenberg Estate, undertook to regenerate and restore the garden. Walls were constructed, and the site where the old tennis court stood has been transformed into an eleven circuit Chartres-style labyrinth, laid out in half brick and river stone. The twenty-five meter long swimming pool was converted into a lily pond and is now home to many fish, to the delight of the farm cape otters and fish eagles. The charming pergola, originally built by John X Merriman in the 1890s, supports climbing roses, clematis and other fragrant climbers.
The garden is essentially laid out in a formal style with four distinct areas accessed by pathways, the hard landscaping has pulled the sizable site of one hectare comfortably together.
The planting can be described as English, with roses, foxgloves, salvias, agapanthus, sedum, anemones, day lilies and much more – really a plants lover’s dream. The changing of the seasons bring interesting and beautiful changes – there is always something to catch the eye. The ‘borrowed’ surrounding landscape of vineyards, green pastures and the majestic Simonsberg mountain backdrop make this garden a magical place.
The garden is open to the public during the week from 09h00 – 16h30 and on Saturdays from 10h00 – 16h00 and Sundays and public holidays from 10h00 – 15h00. Visitors are also welcome to wander up to our Tasting Room to enjoy our wines.
RUSTENBERG GARDEN
Situated around the Rustenberg Manor House, the private home of the Barlow Family, the Rustenberg Garden is a sublime mixture of English-style plantings and structured elegance.
The Rustenberg Garden is a large farm garden and is essentially English in style with a strong focus on heritage roses and perennials. It has a spectacular mountain back drop and wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. It boasts mature trees and unusual plants, surrounding several spectacular Cape Dutch buildings. The garden is made up of a series of ‘garden rooms’ each with a different theme, but still in keeping with the old English style. The garden features an impressive double herbaceous border, and also includes many old-fashioned roses.
The Rustenberg Garden is a private garden, but is opened to the public once a year for our Rustenberg Open Garden Weekend. Check our News for the dates and details of this year’s Open Garden.