A magical garden has been built in the Midlands, just off the N3 Highway, at the luxurious Brahman Hills Estate and Wedding Venue. The well known Windmills Road Stall and Restaurant is adjacent to the Estate and an entry point to the gardens.
Retaining walls beautifully clad with stone create several terraces and levels to explore. Pergolas and curved archways form tunnels to walk through and stop to pause and enjoy the space and views over the surrounding area. The formal layout makes use of cobble edging, walls and hedges to create the overall structure while the planting, water and pathways add contrasting curves to the garden design.
Stone Retaining Walls with remnants of Snow
We visited the gardens in August after it had snowed the day before and thousands of people traveled to Nottingham Road to take part in the special experience. The Gardens are still relatively new as they were constructed in 2020 during the COVID19 lockdown when the staff were unable to serve guests or do their usual work.
An excerpt from the website explains: “The chef was transformed from a culinary connoisseur to an irrigation specialist as he laid out pipes and set out the watering system. Meanwhile, instead of pouring drinks and waiting tables, the bar staff were in the trenches digging ditches and bringing structure to the flower beds. Even our general manager got in on the garden act and become chief cement specialist mixer and pourer, creating winding pathways that weave through the greenery and curve around into circular focal points built around central landscaped beds or water features. Everyone was hands-on and willing to take on roles outside their respective areas of expertise, and their toil has paid off in spades!” (https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/blog-post/come-and-play-in-our-brand-new-magical-garden-at-brahman-hills)
The team effort has been commemorated with a plaque including all the names of the people involved.
Plaque with the Name of Every Person Involved in Construction of the Gardens
The gardens aim to provide the perfect setting for wedding photographs, engagement shoots, romantic picnics and a unique experience during ones stay at the hotel.
The Chapel
Repetition of Timber Planter Boxes
A large part of the garden has been planted with edible plants, herbs, fruit trees and vegetables to provide homegrown organic produce to be used in the hotel kitchen.
These pictures are taken at the peak of winter (literally snowing) so I am sure in Summer the gardens will look even more spectacular!
For more information see their website Brahman Hills and their Blog Post detailing the garden installation
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