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Visit the Small Town of Hogsback for a Spectacular Garden Festival

Hogsback in the Eastern Cape is opening up unique private gardens to the public

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By House & Garden South Africa | September 25, 2023 | Travel Leisure

The wonderfully picturesque village of Hogsback in the Eastern Cape is hosting an exciting festival, the Hogsback Open Gardens. The quaint mountain village has to offer is set to open their gardens over two festival weekends; 5 to 15 October 2023, and 2-12 November 2023.

Hogsback is a town known for the azaleas that line the roads and indigenous trees that flower during the spring among the many oak trees that tower over. Two trees that produce some of the most vibrant flowers in Hogsback include the evergreen ‘Sagewood Buddleja salviifolia’, which produces whimsical purple flowers, and the ‘Fuchsia Halleria lucida’ that grows red tubular flowers. There are many exciting activities on show during Hogsback Open Gardens, so these are some highlights we are excited for.

Hogsback is a unique destination known for its tall towering trees and waterfalls. Image via Pexels.

Pottery Workshop

Starways Pottery is hosting a fun three hour pottery workshop at its unique and magical pottery studio from 10:30am to 13:30. Visitors will learn about drape, moulding and throwing on the clay wheel. Your pots will then be trimmed and fired, and available next day.

Visit the Thrive Centre in Hogsback, Eastern Cape for a walk through an organic, “working” garden. Image via Pexels.

Tour an organic ‘working’ garden

Thrive Centre in Hogsback is known as a haven of learning how to re-connect with nature. Guests will have the chance to join a ‘Walk and Talk’ through an organic, “working” garden at the Thrive Centre. Guests can also buy the “black gold” amazing compost, potting soil, wood vinegar and plants.

At the Thrive Centre, Di van der Walt will take guests on a journey through her phenomenal organic vegetable and herb garden and talk about organic gardening. Di van der Walt is said to practice the permaculture gardening principles, makes her own compost and will share practical advice for those interested in sustainable gardening and soil health.