Photo: Lana_aka_BADGRL

Now this really is a hidden gem. Most South Africans will know who Margaret Roberts is, because she’s the name synonymous with herbs and scented products, the kind of gifts and lotions all mothers and grandmothers love.

What most people don’t know, though, is that Margaret Roberts has a Herbal Centre, a remarkable place tucked away in the Hartebeespoort De Wildt area, set against the northern slopes of the Magaliesberge. The Centre is a calm, serene space in which to teach people about herbs. Even if you have no interest at all in herbs, though, it’s a wonderfully relaxing spot to visit, and it smells like heaven!

The main focus of the Herbal Centre is, of course, the Herb Garden, a haven of scented herbs where you can walk through the bird garden, the destress garden, the aromatherapy garden and the edible flower garden. You’ll also find the National Lavender Collection with over 30 different types of lavender, and a large collection of basil, rosemary and oreganum. Stop off for some tea and cake in the tea garden, visit the chapel and labyrinth, or stock up on some herbal products at the Margaret Roberts shop. A highly recommended, highly unusual day trip.