Benvie farm, located in Karkloof, was established in 1882, by Scottish emigrant John Geekie and is well known throughout South Africa by both the gardening and birdwatching fraternities. Geekie, who was a cabinet maker by profession, also loved trees, and imported seedlings from across the world. Many of the trees which he planted are still standing today, including three giant eucalypts. The trunks of these Mountain ash trees (Eucalyptus regnans) boast massive circumferences of more than 6.8 m , and are a rare sight in South Africa. Today the farms arboretum is managed by Geekie's great grand daughter, and his descendants have continued the family tradition of cabinetry and furniture making at Intingo Furniture.

The hundred and twenty seven year old garden covers an area of about thirty hectares, and consists mainly of large conifers, rhodedendrons and azaleas, all of which is bordered by a typical indigenous mist belt forest. The garden features a walkway, about two kilometers long, directing visitors with a series if signs posted along the way. Here bird watchers stand a good chance of seeing Orange Ground Thrush, Chorister Robin Chat, Olive Woodpecker, Grey Cuckooshrike, Knysna Turaco, White starred Robin and Cape Parrot which use the property as a nesting site. During early summer a variety of migrant species arrive at the farm. Most of these migrant birds belong to the Cuckoo family and include Red chested Cuckoo, Black Cuckoo, African Emerald and Klaas's Cuckoo, as well as many Diderick Cuckoo. Forest Buzzard and Narina Trogon are also sighted regularly in and around the forest.

Another prime spot is reached via a short scenic walk which follows a stream through the forest, where decent sightings of Mountain Wagtail, Narina Trogon, Knysna Turaco and Grey Cuckooshrike can be obtained.During the breeding season which occurs between October and December, a numerous active Orange Ground Thrush nests can be seen here by visitors. Benvie is accessible by appointment and a nominal entrance fee is charged. Resident guides are available on request, and secure parking is available in the Garden as well as toilet facilities. Restaurants can also be found nearby.

Address : D583, Karkloof, off Karkloof Road / York Road
Name of owner : The Geekie Family
Contact : +27 (0) 33 502 9090