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A country garden will provide a visual and sensory experience when it is opened to the public next month.

In 1879 a young school teacher arrived at Samaria, purchased land, built a house (‘Drumrosie’), married and raised seven children.

He and his wife developed a beautiful garden, and some of their trees — including two magnificent oaks, an Atlantic cedar, a spectacular lemon-scented gum and a cypress — remain as central features in the current garden, part of which is now a 2.6ha property named ‘Oak Hollow’ at 35 Spinney Lane, Samaria.

Tucked away against the slopes of Mount Samaria, the garden has benefited from the love and attention of a number of owners over the years. Purchased 10 years ago by the current owners, the garden has been revitalised and nurtured with new plantings.

The many garden beds include Australian natives, rare plants, perennials, roses and succulents. There are feature stone terraces, an attractive pond area and a potager vegetable garden.

Subtle landscaping, rock walls, meandering paths and lawn areas offset the colourful garden beds, while the sheltered position ensures protection from storms and frosts.

‘Oak Hollow’ is a true country garden — a peaceful, private place visited regularly by a diverse variety of birdlife and native animals.

It has rarely been open to the public, but this year all are invited to visit and share the beauty of this garden.

■‘Oak Hollow’ will be open Saturday and Sunday, November 10 and 11, and November 17 and 18 from 10am until 5pm. Morning and afternoon teas will be available, and there will be plants and gardening items for sale. Cost is $5 per adult, with no charge for children under 10 years.