Mariannhill Monastery tea garden re-opens
The peaceful tea garden is located in the heart of the 140-year-old Pinetown monastery.
FOUNDED by Trappist monks in 1882, the sprawling Catholic monastery is a well-known Pinetown landmark.
Along with numerous buildings used for religious purposes, the organisation has a candle-making workshop, printing press, tailor, iron works and hospital which are all open to the public. The history of the monastery is interesting for residents and tourists alike, and guided tours can be arranged by appointment.
The tea garden is a favourite destination for patrons looking for a relaxed setting in an unusual environment. Aged red-brick buildings provide a colourful backdrop to the black cassocks of hurrying priests. When walking to the tea garden, you may pass an engaged couple entering the repository to order personalised candles for their wedding ceremony or see a priest performing a blessing on a parishioner’s new car.
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The tea garden is located next to the repository and manager Mpumelelo Mkhize and chef Ntombifuthi Diaho are eager to serve you meals and cocktails from their new menu.
The expanded menu includes the usual fare, but traditional Zulu mains are a welcome addition – inhloko, usu, umleqwa, kota and crispy ox liver.
Since Mariannhill Monastery re-opened to the public after closure due to the pandemic, the tea garden is a welcome addition to the activities and services offered.
TRADING HOURS:
Monday to Friday 07:30 to 17:00
Saturday and Sunday 08:00 to 17:00
LOCATION: 10 Monastery Road, Mariannhill.
CONTACT: 031 700 42889 (office)
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