Parks

Durbanville Rose Garden

4.3 · 1,149 reviews
Quiet and serene
Durbanville Rose Garden, 33 Drakenstein Rd, Durbanville Hills, Cape Town, 7550, South Africa
Interesting facts
1

It is one of only three international rose gardens in the Southern Hemisphere recognized by the World Federation of Rose Societies.

2

The garden spans 3.5 hectares and contains approximately 4,500 rose bushes.

3

It serves as an official trial site for the South African Rose Society to test new rose cultivars in local climatic conditions.

4

The collection features nearly 500 distinct varieties of roses.

5

The garden is maintained by the City of Cape Town municipality.

Overview

The Durbanville Rose Garden is one of only three rose gardens in the Southern Hemisphere to be recognized by the World Federation of Rose Societies. Situated on a 3.5-hectare site in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, the garden contains over 4,500 individual rose bushes representing approximately 500 different varieties. The grounds are divided into specific sections, including heritage roses, modern hybrids, and climbing varieties. It serves as a testing ground for new rose cultivars under the South African Rose Society's assessment program. The garden is managed by the City of Cape Town and features integrated irrigation systems drawing from local boreholes. Paths are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers throughout the landscaped beds. Picnic lawns are available for public use alongside the floral displays.

Photo spot

The central fountain area which provides a symmetric backdrop of roses.

Insider tips

Visit during the peak bloom season to see the roses at their most vibrant.

Bring a sun hat and sunscreen as the garden features limited natural shade.

Walk the perimeter paths for a comprehensive view of the different rose sections.

What to avoid

Do not visit in mid-winter (July/August) when the bushes are pruned back and lack blooms.

Good to know

The garden is closed for pruning and major maintenance during the winter months.

Etiquette

Do not pick the flowers; remain on designated paths; keep dogs on a leash.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1 hour
Best time to visit
October to November during the spring bloom when the majority of roses are in flower.
Address
Durbanville Rose Garden, 33 Drakenstein Rd, Durbanville Hills, Cape Town, 7550, South Africa
-33.850, 18.643
Get directions
Details
Garden Features4,500 rose bushes and 500 varieties
FacilitiesWheelchair-accessible pathways and picnic lawns

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is October to November during the spring bloom when the majority of roses are in flower..

The central fountain area which provides a symmetric backdrop of roses.

Close by you'll find Sonstraal Dam, Toboggan Family Park (Pty) Ltd., t/a Cool Runnings, Durbanville Nature Reserve.