Set in the charming Franschhoek wine valley at the foot of Simonsberg is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, Babylonstoren.
With meticulously cultivated gardens, incomparable accommodation, exquisite food & wine, and a tranquil ambiance promoting a sense of wellness & rejuvenation, Babylonstoren is a haven for travellers seeking escape from the hustle & bustle.
*Please note: all information is correct at the date of publication. See individual winery websites for up-to-date info!
Babylonstoren has an array of dining options, including Babel Restaurant, housed in the old cow shed – a delightful mix of Cape Dutch architecture & contemporary glass walls creates the plain but edgy atmosphere that perfectly complements their tasty yet eccentric culinary creations.
The Greenhouse, tucked away between the oaks at the rear of the garden, serves as a refreshment station to guests after a meander through the garden. Sip on a warm, soothing cup of farm-grown honeybush tea accompanied by one of their famous freshly baked scones, a crisp seasonal salad, or a scrumptious artisanal sandwich.
The Bakery, which supplies the farm shop & restaurants with freshly baked breads by day, transforms into a spectacular celebration of La Dolce Vita by night, serving Italian-inspired meals on Monday & Friday nights. Feast on a 4-course set menu (only R420 per adult/R200 per tot) of authentic homemade Italian pasta & wood-fired pizza, rounding the meal off with a delicious dolce & a cup of their famous coffee! On Wednesdays & Sundays, guests are invited to join the dynamic celebration of the beloved braai in a lively event called Carnivore Evenings (definitely not for vegetarians!) complete with live accordion tunes, fine wine & skilled braai masters @R650pp (5-course meal incl. 2 glasses of Babel red & a traditional South African dessert).
A must-visit is Babylonstoren's wine tasting cellar boasting stunning views of the conical Babylonstoren hill, Simonsberg & the Banghoek Mountains with wine tastings starting @R90pp for 7 wines & the option to add flagship wines at an additional cost. Don’t miss out on their olive oil & balsamic vinegar tour @R200pp, an insightful walking tour of their balsamic vinegar cellar & olive production plant where guests get to taste & experience the process from start to finish (includes a tasting)!
The Farm Hotel is a charming farmstay experience, with graceful gables & hearty fireplaces exuding warmth & hospitality. The menu, which changes seasonally, is devised based on what's available for picking in the garden so expect freshly blended juices, homemade muesli, thick farm-style yoghurts, and more, all made from the freshest ingredients.
For guests seeking relaxation, the Garden Spa serves as a sanctuary set within a serene bamboo forest surrounded by a myriad leiwater channels - unwind in the sauna, indoor heated pool or salt room. Take advantage of the countless activities included in your stay, such as daily breakfast, guided garden tours & farm walks, morning harvests with gardeners, bread baking with bakers, cellar tours & wine tastings, and so much more!
Visit their Farm Shop - a genuine reflection of their contemporary leisurely farm lifestyle comprised of numerous sensually stimulating rooms. The Scented Room is a peaceful refuge with lingering scents of farm-harvested botanicals where guests can experience the essential oil extraction process. The Homeware Room showcases their classic farm-inspired living home decor & essentials, each item a reflection of simplicity & functionality. The Lekker Room - a tempting space of irresistible flavours & aromas from roast nuts, to steaming coffee & vegan fudge… the list goes on.
In addition to the abundance of food, wine, & relaxation, Babylonstoren offers daily garden tours, during which guests are encouraged to pick, taste, smell, & touch the diverse array of plants. They also offer special collections tours, a daily guided walk where guests can meet their expert gardeners.
Babylonstoren is also a must-stop destination for those traveling via the Franschhoek tram. With its beauty, fine wine, and wellness offerings, it's a haven for any traveller seeking a true escape.
For Tots
Say hi to the donkeys and geese as you take a stroll through their incredible food garden. Walk through the prickly pear maze, pick some ripe fruit, and take a break swinging on their giant swing or rest in their hidden giant bird nest!
Contact Me – Hilary - at hello@winetots.com for more details on your favourite spots to visit & to book a personalised tour of your own – behind the scenic routes of the Cape Winelands & beyond!
Please register on www.winetots.com to stay up to date with new discoveries and ideas for Wineland adventures.
Click here to check out our previous blog “10 Top Stellenbosch Wineland Restaurants for the Golden Hour”!
Important info:
https://babylonstoren.com/ ; enquiries@babylonstoren.com ; 021 863 3852
Trading Hours: daily from 9am – 5pm
Tasting Room Hours: first come first serve basis daily from 10am – 5pm
*Please check their website for specific opening times