Fig Tree Farm, the popular, lively gathering place for families and foodies in KwaZulu-Natal, has added four beautiful Padel courts to the verdant grounds of the original farmstead. The courts opened on 29 June 2024.
Two open courts and two closed courts have been constructed to accommodate play in any weather conditions. The precinct also includes a clubhouse where visitors can rent equipment, use changing rooms, and purchase drinks and snacks. Padel, a hybrid of tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and this facility is set to become a popular meeting place for socializing and playing.
Fig Tree Farm (FTF), was originally established in 1896 and opened to the public in 2020 to provide a safe, open-air space for the Hillcrest community during the Covid pandemic. The farm is a 126-hectare privately owned landscape in Hillcrest. It houses eateries, retail stores, sporting facilities, and commercial flower gardens, serving as a community hub.
The farm also regularly hosts events and music concerts, allowing communities to enjoy
entertainment in a safe, natural environment suitable for all ages. In addition to the new Padel courts, visitors can book spa treatments, shop for beautiful gifts at the retail node, purchase indigenous plants and flowers at the nursery, pick your own flower experience from the commercial flower gardens or explore the trails on foot or by bike. There’s also a driving range, mini golf course, children’s party venue, and more!
Why Build Padel Courts?
The vision is to continue offering opportunities for friends and families to gather and enjoy downtime. FTF has an exceptional location that is safe and offers ample parking. Designed by GAPP Architects & Urban Designers, the courts are set in a rambling arrangement cascading down the hillside, creating interesting spaces between them. Translucent polycarbonate on the roof and sides gives the courts a light and ethereal feel. Josh Montile, Designer at GAPP Architects, says, “The challenge was to design the Padel facility at Fig Tree Farm in a way that aligned with its working farm aesthetic: rough natural materials, weathered textures, and muted tones. These materials provide a distinct contrast to the sleek aesthetic of the glass courts.”
The Padel courts are open seven days a week from 6 am to 10 pm. Bookings can be made on the Playtomic platform. Follow Fig Tree Farm on social media for updates on live music and other events.
About Fig Tree Farm
Established in 1896, Fig Tree Farm is one of the original farmsteads from when Hillcrest was founded as a stopover between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. Set on the gently rolling hills between Hillcrest and Waterfall, Fig Tree Farm is a lively gathering place for families, adventure lovers, and foodies. Visitors enjoy the beautiful grounds, restaurants, retailers, and Padel courts. Find us at Inanda Road, Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal.