Explore stunning gardens at Noordhoek Open Gardens this October

Noordhoek’s much-loved Open Gardens weekend is back for its 11th year, taking place on Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19.

The event will showcase 11 unique and inspiring gardens across the valley, giving locals and visitors the chance to step into some of Noordhoek’s most beautiful private spaces.

However, the weekend is about more than just colourful blooms.

All proceeds go to On the Verge, a non-profit founded by event organiser Kathy Fish.

For the past 16 years, the organisation has worked to transform Noordhoek’s roadside verges into thriving, colourful spaces while also providing work for local community members.

“We live in paradise, and years ago our verges were such an eyesore,” said Ms Fish.

“I remember driving between Robertson and Ashton and noticing their beautiful verges. I mentioned it to a friend, and she said, ‘Stop talking about it and do something.’ That was the spark for On the Verge.”

Ms Fish explains that the Open Gardens has always been their main fundraiser, and the proceeds go directly to keeping the project alive.

“Basically, this is our annual fundraiser. Not only do we have the beautiful gardens that are open to the public on show, but we also make sure all the verge gardens are kept as lovely as possible at the same time. We’ve got about 30 gardens around Noordhoek on the verges, so it’s a tall order.”

On the Verge employs a team of eight, who work tirelessly in the lead-up to the event.

“The guys do their best trying to get everything as gorgeous as possible—pruning, cleaning, weeding, mulching,” said Ms Fish.

“The money raised goes almost exclusively to their salaries. Some team members only have this job for the whole week, so it’s vital for job security. A little also goes to uniforms and tools.”

She notes that the project makes the most of what it has.

“We never buy plants. We rely on donations, make our own cuttings, and collect from people’s gardens when they’re replanting. What we bring back in the trailer always ends up in the verge gardens.”

Over the years, funds have also been used to buy equipment, including two trailers.

“Many years ago, we bought our first trailer to carry a water bowser during water restrictions,” she said.

“About five years ago, we bought a lightweight but long trailer, which we now use to carry all the prunings back from the verges.”

Since then, On the Verge has created 34 gardens, planted hundreds of trees, and cleared invasive alien vegetation.

Residents often spot the group’s bright “We are on the verge today” sign on Wednesdays, when the small team is out planting, pruning or weeding along the roadsides.

According to Ms Fish, the Open Gardens event ensures the work can continue.

“It’s heartwarming to see the younger generation play such an active role,” she adds, pointing to the Scouts and Girl Guides who will once again be helping with entrances and ticket sales at the gardens.

“Their enthusiasm and community spirit remind us why this event matters; it’s about coming together to create something bigger than ourselves.”

Over the past decade, the event has become a Noordhoek tradition, attracting families, garden enthusiasts, and visitors who enjoy the opportunity to explore private gardens while supporting a cause that benefits the entire valley.

Tickets are available at each garden, with all proceeds going directly to On the Verge.

For more information, visit www.noordhoektourism.co.za.