Nature Lover

The Stellenbosch winelands does not only provide the perfect destination for wine connoisseurs, but also creates the perfect platform for adventure enthusiasts to cycle, climb and run. We have highlighted some adventure packed activities for you to do during your stay at Bonne Esperance Guest House.

Nature’s splendour is a gift that cultivates perception and gratitude. That said, gardening is not a rational act, which is likely why it is easier to appreciate the works of others. As we move from winter to spring, we are celebrating all the gardens that are opened to the public – some for a restricted time only. We share a collection of must-see gardens that will reward the senses and deliver much-needed serenity to your soul.

Aspidistra and Bonne Esperance Open Garden

Situated around Bonne Esperance Guest house, an elegant Victorian Villa dating back to 1907, the Aspidistra and Bonne Esperance Garden is a sublime mixture of loose plantings and structured elegance.

The Garden is essentially English in style with a strong focus on heritage plants that includes a Magnolia tree, Pride of India and an buxus border intertwined with indigenous plants. It also boasts the oldest rose bush in Stellenbosch as confirmed by the granddaughter of the original owner, Mr Triblehorn. The garden features an impressive azalea hedge, and also includes many old-fashioned roses. Willie Schmidt, the Pasella garden guru, is the curator and he has planted and nurtured the garden with his characteristic flair.

Visitors can sit on the wrap around veranda and enjoy coffee and cake whilst overlooking the lovely garden. We invite you to be transported back into history with a visit to our heritage garden.

When we think of Stellenbosch, we think of wine, but this town has so much more to offer.
Here are a few of our favourite things to do in and around Stellenbosch.

A perfect combination. Experience the majestic beauty of the mountain passes of Helshoogte, Franschhoek, Viljoen’s and Sir Lowry’s coupled with the winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

The turning of the season is a beautiful time of year to explore all the beauty that gardens in Stellenbosch have to offer. Some of our old favourites are featured below.

Summer is fast approaching, our rainy season is at an end and everything is in full bloom. Why not revel in the bright summer sunshine as you sip a glass of chilled wine and relax around our pool?

Bonne Esperance Guest House is situated within driving distance from some of best golf courses the Western Cape has to offer. Beautiful natural surroundings and rolling vineyards make for the perfect setting for a good game of golf, especially after the great rainy season we have just had.