Discover the iconic Stellenberg Gardens, a place filled with wonder and awe, and a space rich with Cape Town’s heritage.
The Stellenberg homestead in Kenilworth has its roots in the 17th century. It’s considered one of the last remaining houses that has retained the Cape Dutch style.
It is also well known for its gardens, and since its acquisition by the Ovenstone family in the 1950s, its grandeur has been well-preserved.
The Stellenberg Gardens have attracted many, including horticulturalists and gardening experts. They are a must-visit and feature 16 curated garden areas to explore and admire. Let’s discover more below.
The Stellenberg homestead covers a lot of historical ground, so to speak. It has also been passed through the hands of numerous owners. Some of the first owners include Francois van der Stel, who was the owner in 1697. He was the son of the first Governor of the Cape Colony, Simon van der Stel.
Other owners included Christina van Canarij, who was remembered as a successful freed slavewoman. She lived there until 1725. The de Wits owned it from 1742 to 1768, which included Jan de Wit and his son Petrus. It also belonged to Johan Isak Rhenius from 1795, and the Feltham Family purchased it in 1878.
During the British occupancy in the Cape in the 1800s, the Victorian architectural style replaced the local Cape Dutch style. But Stellenberg stands as an architectural testament to the Cape Dutch style because it was never converted due to its previous owners, notably the Feltham family, who reportedly refused suggested changes.
While there have been other owners of the Stellenberg property over the years, the Ovenstone family, Andrew and Sandy, have been active in its upkeep and transformed it into a magnificent space for people to come visit.
The garden is curated and divided into 16 areas, reportedly almost like a reflection of the layout of the rooms in the house. The gardens are inspired by various design styles, and some have also been assisted by prominent designers like David Hicks and Francesca Watson.
According to the Garden Plan, starting from the werf and well and going through the main entrance, these areas are named as follows: the White Garden, the Main Lawns, Parterre, Vegetable Garden, Paradise Garden, the Forest walkway and wandelpad, Herb Garden, Wild Garden, Upper and Lower Stream Garden, Garden of Reflection, Vine Walk with old benches, Walled Garden, Citrus Lime Walk, and the Pool Garden.
It’s advised to view the Stellenberg Gardens website for further information about how you can visit the gardens and find out more about the relevant opening and closing times, fees, and garden tours. While you’re on their website, you can also take a Virtual Tour through the property and gardens. Cape Town is filled with beautiful hidden gems of gardens to explore, relax, and learn about its rich heritage.
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