Nestled at the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountains in the Cape Winelands of South Africa lies (📍) Babylonstoren. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and commitment to sustainability, Babylonstoren offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Let’s have a look at why you should add this historic Cape Dutch farm estate to your travel itinerary.
The farm dates back to 1692 and is less than 40 minutes away from Cape Town.
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Why do you need to visit Babylonstoren?
Babylonstoren has become very popular among locals and internationals. The farm has so much to offer and to be honest, you can spend the whole day here. It is also the perfect place to take those Instagram photos!
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Guided tours
You can step back in time as you wander through the meticulously restored Cape Dutch buildings that date back to the late 17th century. Babylonstoren is steeped in history and has played a significant role in shaping the agricultural landscape of the Western Cape.
Learn about the farm’s storied past through guided tours of the historic buildings, gardens, and vineyards.
Daily tours include garden tours, cellar tours and also olive oil and balsamic tours.
Garden
You will need to pay an entrance fee if you want to access the gardens. This does not include a guided tour.
The gardens spread over eight acres, the gardens are a symphony of colour, fragrance, and texture. The meticulously landscaped beds overflowing with fruits, vegetables, indigenous plants, and fragrant herbs. Take a leisurely stroll through the orchards, vineyards, and vegetable gardens.
There is a daily garden tour that starts at 10h00 in front of the Front Shop which is guided by an experienced gardener. Here you can pick, taste and smell while you walk through the gardens.
Food
Indulge your taste buds with farm-to-fork dining experiences that showcase the freshest seasonal produce sourced directly from Babylonstoren’s gardens. There are two restaurants to choose from where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards.
The Greenhouse
The Greenhouse restaurant is open from 10h00 to 16h00 and is tucked away between oak trees. No reservation is required unless you are a group of 13 or more.
Babel
Booking is essential when visiting Babel. The restaurant is located in an old cow shed with a mix of ape Dutch architecture and contemporary glass walls.
Operating Times:
- They are open for breakfast on Mondays to Sundays from 08h00 to 10h00.
- Lunch can be booked Wednesdays to Sundays from 12h00 to 15h30.
- Dinner is open Mondays to Sundays from 17h00 to 21h00.
Wine
No visit to Babylonstoren would be complete without indulging in their exceptional wines, crafted with passion and expertise from grapes grown in the estate’s vineyards. You can enjoy guided wine tastings and cellar tours, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of varietals.
Wine tasting starts at R80 pp and is next to the Wine Cellar. Here you have the best views of the Babylonstoren hill and the Simonsberg.
You can also do the hop-on hop-off experience with the Franschhoek Wine Tram, as Babylonstoren is one of their stops if you ride the purple line.
Accommodation
Experience the ultimate in luxury and relaxation with a stay at Babylonstoren’s exquisite accommodation. Each accommodation option is thoughtfully designed to provide a serene and comfortable retreat for guests. Immerse yourself in the rustic elegance of Cape Dutch architecture, with modern amenities and luxurious touches that enhance your experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway for two or a family-friendly escape, Babylonstoren’s accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort, style and serenity.
Spa
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul at Babylonstoren’s luxurious spa and wellness center. Nestled amid tranquil gardens and ancient oak trees, the spa offers a range of holistic treatments inspired by the farm’s natural surroundings. Unwind with a restorative massage or indulge in a revitalizing facial. There are many selections of treatments to choose from. They use fresh herbs from their garden in their daily spa rituals. You’ll find the spa in a bamboo pavilion that has a hammam, chill room, hot spa and a gym. You can even buy a friend the perfect birthday gift by buying them a gift card to visit the spa!
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