The range of the natural flora of the Western Cape Province of South Africa is testimony to the perfect climatic conditions, which give rise to an astonishing diversity of gardens. South Africa is brimming with horticultural self-confidence; gardeners are taking inspiration from the indigenous planting of the fynbos, while simultaneously adopting European planting ideas. In style, they range from the potager at Babylonstoren (sister garden to The Newt in Somerset) in which everything, from prickly pears to strawberries, is grown organically, to the grand formal Cape Dutch gardens at Stellenberg and Vergelegen.

The plantsmanship throughout is superb, whether in the gardens at Elgin, when they are at their very peak of perfection, or the private gardens in Constantia. To all this, add delicious food and wine and the spectacular landscape of mountains and the green rolling hills of the winelands.