Escape into the Karoo for a weekend feast of country pleasures. Head off to one of the Eastern Cape's most popular country lifestyle experiences for a weekend break this spring. "Your gardens hold their own against the best in the country - like those in Hilton and Balgowan," says South Africa's gardening guru, Keith Kirsten, of the 2008 show.
If you want your green fingers to itch there's a fabulous range of gardens to visit. Stroll through the vast park-like expanses on various local farms and take a peek at clever little secret gardens in the village. You can also meet the amazing township show-gardeners!
Get inspired and bunged up with knowledge about our wonderful world with numerous bird, butterfly, rose and tree watching walks, talks and exhibitions. Mosey through the markets and feast at the many eateries. Chill out to the smooth sounds of live jazz, attend a concert or party hard at the community disco in the town hall.
Travel off the beaten track to the farm gardens and enjoy the adventure of exploring district roads that wind through picturesque landscapes of golden grasslands, indigenous bush and mountains straight from Lord of the Rings. Bedfordians are famous for their hospitality so you can expect a warm welcome and scrumptious food.
Need to know? Don't leave it too late to book accommodation for this popular festival. Many keen festival goers book a year in advance. Find the festival programme and more at www.bedford-gardens.co.za