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Tucked deep in the misty folds of the Karkloof is the beautiful Benvie Garden, which honestly feels like stepping into another world. Towering trees, dappled light, birdsong echoing through forest and lawn. It is the kind of place you plan to visit for an hour and somehow stay all afternoon.
What is Benvie Garden?
Established in 1882 by cabinet maker and tree enthusiast John Geekie, this 30-hectare arboretum has been nurtured by six generations of the same family. John and Jenny Robinson are currently the custodians of Benvie on behalf of the Geekie family.
What began as a dream to recreate a Scottish garden in the Midlands has grown into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most celebrated botanical sanctuaries. Designed as a circular walk, the garden guides you beneath a dramatic canopy of exotic trees sourced from around the world. Seeds once travelled by ship to Durban Harbour, by rail to Merrivale, and finally by ox wagon to the farm Nooitgedacht. Today, those trees stand tall, some over a century old.
Alongside the floral beauty, Benvie is a paradise for birders. The garden and surrounding mistbelt forest are home to Cape Parrots, Orange Ground Thrushes, Knysna Turacos, White Starred Robins and Olive Woodpeckers. Follow the stream into the forest, and you might spot Narina Trogons or Forest Buzzards.
What you need to know
- Where: D583, off Karkloof Road or York Road, Natal Midlands
- When: Spring brings azaleas, Azalea Mollis and clivias in full show. October belongs to the rhododendrons. Hydrangeas and camellias thrive in the cool shade below the giants.
- Cost: Prices on request
- Contact: +27 33 502 9090 | benvie@bluetechsa.co.za
- Directions: From Howick, travel 33 km along Karkloof Road, turn right onto York Road, follow signs for 3km. Do not access from the Greytown side.
What else is in the Karkloof area?
The greater Karkloof region is packed with adventure. You can enjoy:
- The Karkloof Canopy Tour is an exhilarating ziplining adventure.
- Ardmore Ceramic Studio, the luxury African brand.
- The rustic Karkloof Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning.
- The sights and sounds of the Karkloof Conservation Centre.
- Getting active on the Karkloof Mountain Bike Trails.
With so much to see and do in the Karkloof, you could easily turn this one-day outing into a full-on holiday!
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