An endless walk through multiple types of forests and flora. You wonder if you not dreaming.
1 / 10

Benvie Gardens

4.9
·173 reviews·Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

A hidden gem oasis with breathtaking floral displays, ancient trees, and abundant birdlife, perfect for a tranquil picnic escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Azalea blooming season

Witness a magical spectacle

CrowdMedium
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An endless walk through multiple types of forests and flora. You wonder if you not dreaming.

Benvie Gardens

Best Time

Azalea blooming season

Witness a magical spectacle

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hidden gem oasis with breathtaking floral displays, ancient trees, and abundant birdlife, perfect for a tranquil picnic escape.

4.9
(173 reviews)

"It definitely is paradise. A masterful garden and absolutely gorgeous!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Embrace the Journey

The drive can be long, but reviewers insist it's incredibly worth it for this hidden gem. :car:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Beautiful picnic spots abound, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature. :sandwich:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Magical Azalea Blooms

Magical Azalea Blooms

Hundreds of azalea bushes in full bloom create a breathtaking, colorful spectacle. A truly magical experience.

Reddit
Picnic Perfection

Picnic Perfection

Lush green lawns and beautiful spots make for an ideal picnic setting amidst stunning natural beauty.

Reddit
Ancient Majestic Trees

Ancient Majestic Trees

Discover magnificent old trees with fascinating histories, adding a sense of timelessness to the gardens.

Reddit
Abundant Birdlife

Abundant Birdlife

A haven for birdwatchers, with incredible birdlife, including rare sightings like the Orange Ground Thrush.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Picnic Paradise

Benvie Gardens is a hidden gem, perfect for a relaxing picnic. Pack your basket and enjoy the tranquility. The journey can be a bit long, but reviewers agree it's absolutely worth it for this magical oasis. Reddit

Best Time for Blooms

For the most vibrant displays, aim for the Azalea blooming season. This is when the gardens transform into a colorful spectacle, offering a truly magical experience for visitors. Reddit

Best Times

When
Azalea blooming season
Why
Witness a magical spectacle
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Enjoy peaceful tranquility
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Embrace the Journey

The drive can be long, but reviewers insist it's incredibly worth it for this hidden gem. Reddit :car:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Beautiful picnic spots abound, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature. Reddit :sandwich:

🌸 Visit During Bloom

For peak beauty, aim for the Azalea blooming season for a truly magical experience. Reddit :flowerplayingcards:

🐦 Bring Your Binoculars

An incredible spot for birdwatching, with chances to see rare species. Reddit :bird:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Embrace the Journey

The drive can be long, but reviewers insist it's incredibly worth it for this hidden gem. Reddit :car:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

Beautiful picnic spots abound, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal amidst nature. Reddit :sandwich:

🌸 Visit During Bloom

For peak beauty, aim for the Azalea blooming season for a truly magical experience. Reddit :flowerplayingcards:

🐦 Bring Your Binoculars

An incredible spot for birdwatching, with chances to see rare species. Reddit :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(173 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Benvie Gardens is overwhelmingly praised as a magnificent, magical garden oasis, offering a truly breathtaking and tranquil experience. Visitors rave about the stunning floral displays, especially during the Azalea blooming season, and the well-maintained grounds perfect for picnics. While the journey can be long, the beauty and peace found here make it a highly recommended destination for nature and history lovers alike. Reddit

"What a magnificent place, beautiful picnic spots, lovely clean toilets. A place for the whole family to enjoy and relax. I highly recommend going to see the open gardens. It definitely is paradise. 💜"

Deborah Hurter

"A masterful garden and absolutely gorgeous! The attention to detail in the landscaping is remarkable, with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and well-maintained pathways creating a breathtaking experience. If you don’t mind the drive, this hidden gem is well worth the visit. The peaceful atmosphere, fresh air, and stunning views make it a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Adding to its charm, the garden has a rich history, with magnificent old trees that have stood for generations and a fascinating story of the botanist who planted them. A must-visit for nature and history lovers alike!"

Sean Warnick

"It was quiet the journey getting to the garden but boy was it sooo worth it! From the entrance the trail of flowers was just magical. It can only be described as a magical garden oasis hidden in the middle of pine forests. The gardens are so well maintained, the lush green grass is perfect with so many beautiful spots to picnic. If you're looking for a piece of heaven on earth this is definitely a must visit. A truly off the grid spot, offering peace and tranquility from the hustle and bustle of city life. A once in a lifetime visit."

Kovania

What People Like

Magnificent gardens
Beautiful picnic spots
Peaceful tranquility

What People Dislike

Long journey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Benvie Gardens is described as a bit of a journey, often requiring a significant drive. While specific directions aren't detailed in the reviews, travelers emphasize that the effort is well worth it for the destination's beauty. It's recommended to use a reliable GPS or mapping service for the most accurate route. Reddit

While considered a 'hidden gem' and 'off the grid,' the journey is consistently mentioned as leading to a magical oasis. Planning your route in advance is advisable. Reddit

Given the descriptions of a 'long drive' and 'off the grid' location, traveling by car is likely the most practical option for accessing Benvie Gardens. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The provided reviews mention visiting the 'open gardens' and highlight it as a place for the whole family to enjoy, suggesting it's an accessible attraction. Specific ticketing information is not detailed, but the focus is on the experience of visiting. Reddit

Opening hours are not specified in the reviews. However, the emphasis on picnic spots and enjoying the gardens suggests it's a daytime attraction. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, the positive reviews focusing on the experience and family enjoyment imply that access is straightforward. It's advisable to check for any official ticketing information closer to your visit. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Benvie Gardens is ideal for enjoying beautiful scenery, having picnics on lush lawns, and appreciating the tranquility. It's also a fantastic spot for birdwatching and admiring historical trees. Reddit

Absolutely! Reviewers consistently praise the 'lush green grass' and 'beautiful spots to picnic,' making it a perfect destination for a packed lunch. Reddit

Yes, it's described as a place for the 'whole family to enjoy and relax,' offering a peaceful escape with beautiful natural surroundings. Reddit

The gardens are renowned for their vibrant flowers, particularly the 'hundreds of Azalea bushes in bloom' during the season, alongside lush greenery and majestic old trees. Reddit

With its exquisite, colorful gardens, stunning natural landscapes, and unique flora, Benvie Gardens offers numerous picturesque opportunities for photography. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant Azalea blooms, the ancient majestic trees, and the overall magical garden oasis provide stunning backdrops. Capture the lush greenery and any unique birdlife you encounter. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light for photography, especially when combined with the vibrant colors of the gardens. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the focus on natural beauty and personal enjoyment suggests that casual photography is welcomed. For professional shoots, it's always best to inquire directly with the garden management. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Benvie Gardens is a wonderful destination for families, offering a safe and beautiful environment for children to explore. The lush green grass provides ample space for kids to run around, and the beautiful picnic spots make for a delightful family outing. The magical atmosphere of the gardens can spark imagination and wonder in younger visitors. Reddit

While specific child-focused amenities aren't mentioned, the overall peaceful and tranquil nature of the gardens ensures a relaxing experience for parents. The opportunity to see diverse birdlife might also be an engaging activity for curious kids. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as the 'off the grid' nature suggests limited facilities. Reddit

🌿 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers

For those passionate about nature, Benvie Gardens is a dream come true. The exquisite gardens with their vibrant flowers and ancient trees offer a feast for the eyes. Birdwatchers will be particularly thrilled by the incredible birdlife, with opportunities to spot rare species like the Orange Ground Thrush. Reddit

The tranquility and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal setting for quiet observation and immersion in nature. The 'hidden gem' aspect means you can often enjoy the natural beauty without large crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with the flora and fauna. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Flora of Benvie Gardens

Benvie Gardens is celebrated for its spectacular floral displays, with the Azalea blooming season being a particular highlight. Visitors describe the sight of hundreds of azaleas in bloom as a 'magical experience,' transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. Beyond the azaleas, the gardens boast lush greenery and well-maintained pathways, creating a visually stunning environment. The attention to detail in the landscaping is frequently praised, contributing to the overall breathtaking atmosphere. Reddit

Adding to its charm are the magnificent old trees that dot the landscape, some having stood for generations. These ancient giants not only add a sense of history and grandeur but also provide a beautiful contrast to the more delicate blooms. The combination of meticulously curated flowerbeds and the presence of these venerable trees creates a unique and deeply peaceful garden oasis. Reddit

For those interested in botany or simply appreciating nature's artistry, Benvie Gardens offers a rich experience. The fascinating story of the botanist who planted them adds another layer of depth to the visit, making it a must-visit for nature and history lovers alike. Reddit

A Haven for Wildlife and Tranquility

Beyond its stunning flora, Benvie Gardens is a sanctuary for abundant birdlife. Visitors have reported incredible sightings, with some even achieving long-held goals, such as spotting the Orange Ground Thrush after years of waiting. This makes the gardens a particularly rewarding destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the fresh air, provides a perfect setting for relaxation and quiet observation. Reddit

The peaceful atmosphere and tranquility are recurring themes in visitor feedback. Described as a 'magical garden oasis hidden in the middle of pine forests' and a 'truly off the grid spot,' Benvie Gardens offers a welcome escape from the 'hustle and bustle of city life.' This sense of seclusion and serenity is a major draw for those seeking a restorative experience. Reddit

Whether you're looking to unwind, connect with nature, or simply enjoy a quiet moment, Benvie Gardens delivers. The stunning views and the overall sense of peace make it a perfect spot to relax and recharge. It's a place where the beauty of the natural world can be fully appreciated in a serene setting. Reddit

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