Enchanting garden with a river in the heart of Newlands

It has a river, picnic spots made out of tree stumps and is a great spot for a photoshoot

Last updated: Tuesday, 12 October 2021

The Upper Liesbeek River Garden, opposite Almond Park and close to Paradise Park, is a little natural haven loved by wedding couples, kids, families and dogs. Its picnic tables and chairs are made out of tree stumps, and it has trails to walk along. It’s a serene escape from the city without even needing to leave it.

 

The Upper Liesbeek River Garden is a natural paradise. Image: Jessie Leverzencie.

ENJOY THE BURBLING BROOK

The Liesbeek River runs through the Garden and it’s serene to sit alongside it. Kids love to wade in its shallow waters. A bridge of large smooth rocks has been placed across the river, and will bring out the inner child in anyone who hops across to get to the picnic spots on the other side.

Relax by the river for a serene break from the city noise. Image: Jessie Leverzencie. 

The 9km long Liesbeek River cuts through the city from Kirstenbosch Gardens, through Newlands, Rondebosch and Rosebank, and ends where it meets the Swartrivier close to Mowbray and Observatory. 

Kids love splashing through the Upper Liesbeek River's shallow waters. Image: Jessie Leverzencie.

PICNIC IN THIS PEACEFUL FAIRY GARDEN

Various trails that cut through the garden lead you to picnic spots that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a real-life fairy garden. 

Enjoy the natural beauty as you stroll through the Garden. Image: Jessie Leverzencie.

The tables and chairs are tree stumps, and each area has been neatly designated so one group can occupy a specific area. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a picnic.

The picnic spots are enchanting and fairytale-like. Image: Jessie Leverzencie.

Choo choo, here comes the train. Kids can also enjoy the play train, made from wooden logs, at the Upper Liesbeek River Garden.

Kids enjoy playing on this train made out of logs. Image: Jessie Leverzencie.

STOP BY FOR AN AESTHETIC PHOTOSHOOT

Did you know that people have their wedding pictures taken here? This aesthetic location is a great spot for taking photos and the natural surroundings make for a picturesque backdrop.

A couple getting their wedding portraits taken at The Upper Liesbeek River Garden. Image: Megan Isaacs.

BE SURE TO PRESERVE THE NATURAL BEAUTY

The Upper Liesbeek River Garden is a community initiative for rehabilitation, conservation and maintenance of this natural area. It is a spot much loved by the community, so be sure to help preserve its natural beauty when you visit. (Please dispose of any litter, and bring bags along to dispose of your dog’s waste). 

Donations to help maintain the Upper Liesbeek River Garden can be made via SnapScan - the donation QR code can be found in the Garden. For further enquiries and donations please contact: info@rivergarden.org.za. 

The Upper Liesbeek River Garden is a community initiative to help preserve the natural beauty of the Liesbeek River. Image: Jessie Leverzencie.

Riverside Road, Newlands | Cape Town | info@rivergarden.org.za

HOW TO GET THERE

1. From the south, follow the M3 to Newlands (in the direction of Newlands Forest and the CBD). 

2. Continue on the M3 and turn left onto Fernwood Avenue (at the traffic lights).

3. Drive down Fernwood Avenue and turn left down Almond Street.

4. Follow Almond Street down until the road meets Riverside Road. 

5. On the corner, on your right you will see a jungle gym and small field, this is Almond Park. Opposite the road, adjacent to Riverside Road is the Upper Liesbeek River Garden.

By Jessie Leverzencie

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