Overview
Babylonstoren is a historic Cape Dutch farm located in the Drakenstein Valley near Franschhoek and Paarl. The farm dates back to 1692 when it was established by the Dutch East India Company. Today, it is renowned for its stunning gardens, luxurious accommodations, and award-winning wines.
The farm spans over 494 acres and is famous for its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture. The main attraction of Babylonstoren is its extensive gardens, which are laid out over eight acres and divided into different sections, each showcasing a variety of plants, herbs, fruits, and vegetables.
In addition to its gardens, Babylonstoren also boasts a winery that produces a number of acclaimed wines. The farm’s vineyards are meticulously maintained, and guests can enjoy wine tastings and cellar tours to learn more about the winemaking process.
Rooms
The Farmhouse Suites feature a king-size bed, lounge area, fireplace, and private patio, whilst the Fynbos Cottages offer rustic-chic decor, fully equipped kitchenettes, living areas, private gardens, and outdoor baths or showers. The Mountain View Cottages offer panoramic views of vineyards and mountains, with contemporary furnishings, high ceilings, and private terraces for alfresco dining, and the Garden Cottages boast whitewashed walls, thatched roofs, cozy bedrooms, and private outdoor dining areas.
Finally, the Manor House is an exclusive private residence in a restored historic mansion, featuring spacious suites with antique furniture, original artworks, grand living areas, and formal dining rooms, along with a private garden and pool.
Amenities
Each air-conditioned apartment preserves historic elements such as wooden farm doors, fireplaces, and thick stone walls, while also featuring modern amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, designer bathrooms, and cable TVs, whilst complimentary WiFi is included.
Guests are treated to a freshly prepared breakfast each morning, and they have the option to order a packed lunch to enjoy while exploring the area on complimentary bikes. The property also hosts tea rituals, available by reservation for an additional fee.
Relax at either the indoor or outdoor pool, the latter of which has a sun terrace with picturesque mountain views. Babylonstoren provides free private parking, and shuttle services can be arranged for a fee upon request.
Gallery
Take a look around
A Typical Day
After a delicious farm-to-table breakfast guests can spend the morning exploring the expansive gardens, either on a guided tour or at their own pace, discovering the diverse array of plants and herbs. Alternatively the morning may spent engaging in a workshop on bread-making or beekeeping, offering hands-on learning experiences unique to Babylonstoren.
Midday provides options for a rejuvenating spa treatment using natural botanicals from the farm, or a visit to Soetmelksvlei, the historical farmhouse, to delve into the rich heritage of the area. Guests can enjoy a picnic in the gardens with farm-fresh ingredients or dine at Babel, where the menu is inspired by the seasonal harvest.
In the afternoon, guests can cycle through the picturesque vineyards, visit the farm shop for artisanal products, or relax by the pool. A wine tasting session in the historic cellar showcases Babylonstoren’s acclaimed wines, and the day concludes with a delicious dinner at either Babel or the Greenhouse, followed by a serene evening stroll through the lantern-lit gardens or unwinding by the fire.
Experiences
Guided Garden Walks
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Wine Tasting
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Themed Workshops
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Spa & Wellness
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Kids Activities
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Rates
High Season
High season includes major holidays such as Christmas and New Year, along with the warmest, driest weather of the year, and prices are typically at their highest. The more predictable weather coupled with the range of experiences on offer make it an extremely popular time to visit.