Discover the Transformative Beauty of Brahman Hills in KwaZulu-Natal
Midlands – Picture this: a serene landscape in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, where the morning mist dances with the hills and vibrant wildflowers burst into bloom alongside tranquil cascades. Nestled within this enchanting setting is Brahman Hills—a location that has undergone a stunning transformation from a simple roadside motel into a prestigious five-star destination. It now proudly holds the title of one of the Partner Gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society.
But what led to this remarkable evolution? The captivating journey of Brahman Hills is beautifully chronicled in a newly released coffee table book titled Brahman Hills: The Making of a World-Class Garden. This inspiring work is authored by Iain Buchan, Michele Magwood, and the renowned landscape architect Tim Steyn, with breathtaking photography by Connall Oosterbroek that truly captures the garden’s essence.
The story takes an interesting turn during the challenges posed by the Covid-19 lockdown. As the hotel lay dormant with events and weddings postponed, a spark of creativity ignited innovation among the Brahman Hills team. Guided by the vision of the late Carol Buchan, a fervent advocate for indigenous flora, employees from various departments—including those in the kitchen and housekeeping—came together with a shared goal: to rejuvenate the land.
Through their combined efforts, they enriched the soil, crafted winding pathways, and planted trees, breathing life into what had been an overlooked space. Their determination turned an uncertain future into a nurturing sanctuary that today stands as a symbol of hope, beauty, and resilience. The team’s collective dedication yielded a breathtaking five hectares of botanical wonders, complete with forest trails, vibrant flowerbeds, serene ponds, enchanting grottoes, intriguing sculptures, and buzzing beehives.
“This book is more than just a garden narrative,” Magwood points out. “It encapsulates a legacy of resilience and the remarkable things people can achieve when they unite for a shared dream.” She emphasizes that Brahman Hills: The Making of a World-Class Garden is not only an exquisite collector’s item but also a thoughtful gift that sparks conversations among garden enthusiasts, travelers, and lovers of nature alike.
Scheduled to hit stores and online platforms starting late September, this book invites everyone to delve into the inspiring tale of Brahman Hills. Whether you’re a passionate gardener, a traveling adventurer, or simply someone who appreciates what can blossom from love, loss, and hard work, this delightful gem is one to cherish, share, and discuss.
Where to Find It:
You can find the book available at various retailers, including Exclusive Books, Bargain Books, Wordsworth, Readers Warehouse, Takealot, and Loot.
