Dating back to 1692 when the first vineyards were planted at the farm, the whitewashed buildings of Babylonstoren are steeped in winemaking history. Recently transformed into an elegant hotel offering a chic, yet authentic farmstay experience, Babylonstoren now represents one of the most sought-after rural retreats in Southern Africa.
Days can be spent exploring the gardens and farm by bicycle or joining one of the expert staff for a tour. Set within eight acres of cultivated vegetable crops and orchards, the incredible gardens are at the heart of the farm. They were inspired by the historic Company's Garden in Cape Town, which supplied sailing ships of the Dutch East India Company with fresh vegetables and fruit, during the days when the Cape was a halfway station between Europe and Asia. Guests can join the hotel's bakers to make bread or help the gardeners with the morning harvest. Take time out to relax by the swimming pool or in the Garden Spa, where treatments include traditional hammams, wraps and massages.
The estate’s 13 original guest cottages and suites have been decorated in a contemporary style, with traditional Cape Dutch influences. Two standalone lodges – the nine-room farm manager’s house and the five-bedroom Manor House – provide further options for luxurious, self-contained accommodation within the sprawling grounds. The newest addition to the estate, the light-filled Fynbos Cottages, are set further out on the edge of the vineyards, but benefit from access to a beautifully secluded swimming pool, and golf buggies to navigate the estate with ease.
The farm's restaurants are supplied by the gardens. Breakfasts include the freshest of juices, seasonal fruit, homemade muesli and home-baked breads. The Greenhouse serves vibrant salads, charcuterie and breads from the wood-fired oven during lunchtime. The Bakery opens in the evening for Italian-inspired menus or 'Carnivore Evenings.' Babel is the hotel's signature restaurant and reflects the farm-to-table philosophy. Expect to find such delights as salt-room aged Chianina beef from the farm, or freshly made risottos inspired by vegetables from the garden. Babylonstoren's own fine wines are produced in a state-of-the-art winery - the cellar tours and tastings are not to be missed.
SUITABLE FOR:
- Couples and families
- Gourmands
- Lovers of nature and the great outdoors
- Oenophiles
THINGS TO DO AT THE HOTEL:
- Discover the enchanting surroundings of the estate and the magnificent kitchen gardens
- Feast on memorable farm-to-table cuisine in a wealth of glorious settings
- Retreat to the spa and while away hours with healing treatments and time in the indoor pool and hammam
- Tour the wine cellar or learn about the estate’s production of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil
- Participate in one of the wealth of culinary and botanical workshops
THINGS TO DO NEARBY:
- Discover the surrounding 200 acres by bike
- Go fishing or canoeing in the farm dam
- Hike or take a mountain drive up Babylonstoren Hill
- Hop on the Franschhoek wine tram to discover the wealth of nearby enticing vineyards
