Johnman Music Centre & Garden

One of the last remaining Old Cape gardens, the ‘Camido’ home is at the heart of a cluster of historic houses in Stellenbosch. This refuge for nature and garden-lovers is located in a part of the city where vegetable patches and orchards are now replaced by office blocks and apartment complexes. This small group of historic homes, which also includes a music centre, is managed by the Johnman Trust.

The Johnmans were dedicated to conservation, developing and maintaining their gardens in a way that expressed their love of the natural world and an enthusiasm for home-grown produce. As a result, you can find a fascinating mix of exotic ornamentals, indigenous plants and productive orchards in this paradisiacal garden. The informal style, with its cobbled surfaces and winding dirt pathways complement the verdant foliage and vibrant flowers.

A millstream, which is fed by the neighbouring Eersterivier, is a constant gentle background sound in this peaceful garden, and provides a valuable source of irrigation during the summer months. Visitors to the garden at ‘Camido’ are enchanted by the old fruit trees, rambling roses, jasmine, wisteria and the many indigenous plants that bring this space to life.

How long is a typical visit?

The average visitor spends 1 - 2 hours (Quarter Day) at Johnman.

Narrow, earth pathways.