Missed the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May? Oops-a-daisy! It was definitely one to remember, especially since South Africa’s exhibit won gold and the Best Exhibit and Best New Design awards – no small feat at what is essentially the Olympics for flowers.
The exhibit, created by SA landscape designer Leon Kluge and artist Tristan Woudberg, bursts with fynbos, rare hybrids, and an extraordinary array of proteas, drawing in flower fans from far and wide.
It was a shining example of South Africa’s floral kingdom – one that is certainly worth travelling for.
“Our flowers bloom way beyond the Chelsea Flower Show! August and September are famous for blossoming flora, so book your leave and travel ASAP,” says Antionette Turner, GM at Flight Centre South Africa. “But, if you can’t fit travel in this spring, don’t worry – SA’s biodiversity offers floral displays all year round.”
Flight Centre’s Travel Experts have rounded up 5 incredible flower destinations and events you won’t want to miss in SA:
- West Coast National Park: This area is famous for its spectacular wildflowers that colour the landscape with orange, pink, and white. The park’s Postberg section is a floral paradise with daisies, sporries, and magriets all making an appearance. Book your spot as soon as bookings open in June, as only 20 hikers are allowed per day, and weekend slots fill up fast.
- The Garden Route: This iconic route winds through the fynbos biome, which includes various flowering plants like proteas, ericas, and restios, as well as unique succulents like mesembs. The area boasts the most blossoms from September to November.
- Darling Wildflower Festival: Taking place 20-22 September 2024 at the Darling Sport Club, this festival promises stunning wildflower exhibits, species tables, and lots of activities, including a tearoom, marketplace, plant sales, and wine and beer tasting. Enjoy the festival and explore the town and surrounding blooming fields.
- Nieuwoudtville Nature Garden: If you can’t get away this spring, don’t stress. You can catch rare blooms in March! The Brunsvigia bosmaniae, or March flower, is a rare and beautiful flower that blooms only once a year in March in specific areas of the Northern Cape, including the Nieuwoudtville Nature Garden. The bright pink flowers grow in open flats and rocky outcrops, making it a one-of-a-kind natural spectacle.
- Sterrekopje Farm: Love Leon Kluge? Book a retreat at this haven in Franschhoek. Kluge designed the gardens, which feature herbs, medicinal plants, orchards, and indigenous flora.
Our Travel Experts are here to help you plan a bespoke flower holiday. Visit www.flightcentre.co.za to browse or book your next getaway!
