THEN & NOW
From humble beginnings in the 1950s to its current vibrant incarnation, witness the remarkable transformation of our garden at Mo & Rose Guesthouse, reflecting a journey of passion, dedication, and timeless beauty.
THEN…
The inception of our garden traces back to the 1950s when Marthinus Malherbe, a fervent plant collector, cultivated an extraordinary assortment of cactus seeds from the Americas. Molly, inspired by Marthinus's passion, dedicated herself to nurturing these seeds, resulting in the creation of a truly unique garden in South Africa for its time.
As fate would have it, gardens often undergo transformations with changing ownership. Years of neglect took their toll until a Dutch couple, Yvonne and Herman van Bon, breathed new life into the garden when they arrived at Soekershof in 2000. Their dedication led to the resurrection and expansion of the garden, opening its gates to the public for exploration and wonder.
In 2011, Axel and Monika Daniel transformed Soekershof into a boutique guesthouse, complete with an exceptional restaurant helmed by Axel's culinary prowess. Monika's keen eye for design left its mark on the garden layout and interior décor, enhancing the charm of the guesthouse.
…NOW
With new ownership in 2017, Francois and Jeanne van Wageningen, both natives of Robertson, brought their love for the valley and its hidden treasures to Mo & Rose. Their vision included expanding the cacti gardens and implementing sustainable practices such as solar energy. Their commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction is evident in their meticulous attention to detail. Francois, Jeanne, and their children, Madeleine and Ludwig, call Mo & Rose home, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
