Gardens at Tokara

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Tokara Farm Garden was designed to complement the natural landscape rather than compete with it. The layout follows the contours of the estate, with clear views from the gardens up to the winery on the hillside and towards the Simonsberg beyond. As visitors walk through the grounds, the surrounding scenery remains a constant feature. From the terraces of the picking garden, there are the wetlands, the eco-friendly vegetable garden, and the babbling mountain stream flowing into soothing lily ponds

The gardens feature a carefully curated collection of sculptures and art pieces set among plantings of Cape fynbos. These works appear along the walkways that link the winery and the delicatessen, encouraging visitors to move slowly and explore. Long-distance views extend across the estate, with sightlines that include Table Mountain and Cape Point on clear days.

Tokara Farm Garden opens to the public annually for its Rare Plant Fair. During this event, visitors can explore the gardens, purchase plants, and enjoy wine tastings. The garden includes a dedicated indigenous section, a productive vegetable garden, wetlands, and a mountain stream that feeds into a series of lily ponds. An indigenous Moss Garden, inspired by Zen garden principles, is one of the most recent additions. Pets and picnics are not permitted.

The Herbal Garden plays an important practical role on the estate. It features aromatic plants such as thyme, basil, and rosemary, which are used in the Tokara restaurant. Beyond its culinary purpose, the garden supports biodiversity and attracts birds and insects.

The cork oak forest adds texture and shade to the landscape. Throughout the estate, indigenous planting and locally made artworks are integrated into a series of well-maintained walking routes, offering visitors a structured but relaxed garden experience.

Tokara hosts a rare plant fair anually usually in October/November

Tokara Wine and Olive Farm, Helshoogte Pass, Stellenbosch

Coordinates: -33.9180637, 18.9187235

See other gardens in Stellenbosch