Babylonstoren
SOUTH AFRICA
THE PERSONALITIES
Wine lovers and foodies. Families and friends looking for an upscale farm experience.
MOMENTS
Cycling through the vineyard. Relaxing in a garden filled with exotic granadillas, pineapples, and dragonfruit. Smell of ginger, cardamom, and vanilla in the air. Complimentary wine bar.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
Anytime, but October to March is the warmest.
COST
WHY STAY
Babylonstoren, located in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, is a historic farm that offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and luxurious amenities. The estate is centered around an expansive, meticulously maintained garden that forms the heart of the property. Covering over eight acres, the garden is home to a diverse array of fruit orchards, vegetable patches, and fragrant herb beds, all laid out in a visually stunning yet functional design. Guests are encouraged to explore and even pick fresh produce, deepening their connection to the land and its seasonal rhythms.
The architecture at Babylonstoren reflects a harmonious balance between heritage and modernity. The whitewashed Cape Dutch-style buildings are complemented by contemporary structures made from glass and steel, allowing for stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, mountains, and gardens. Every detail, from the reclaimed wood furniture to the minimalist interiors, is thoughtfully curated to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Large windows and open spaces invite natural light and blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, providing a serene and immersive experience.
Babylonstoren’s amenities further enhance its appeal as a wellness and leisure destination. Guests can indulge in farm-to-table dining at the property’s acclaimed restaurants, where dishes are crafted using ingredients sourced directly from the garden. The spa offers a range of treatments inspired by the natural surroundings, while the outdoor pool and hammam provide opportunities for relaxation. For those seeking adventure, the estate features scenic walking and cycling trails that meander through vineyards and along the Berg River. Babylonstoren is more than a retreat—it’s a place where nature and design come together to offer an unforgettable escape.
WHY WANDER
Explore all 200 hectares of the farm. Take the garden tour and see all the fruits and vegetables organically grown at Babylonstoren. Partake in harvesting the fruit or pruning the wines. Take the cellar tour and learn about the winemaking process, which includes wine tasting of course. Hike up Babylonstoren Hill or take a canoe through a river. Take advantage of the complimentary mountain bikes. Visit the Greenhouse for tea and homemade scones in the afternoon.
INDULGE IN
Organic food from the garden. Wine from 13 different grape varieties. Visit the Babel restaurant for contemporary, seasonal dishes. Take a piece of Babylonstoren home with you with something from their Cheese and Bread Shop.
GETTING THERE
Take a taxi or a rented car from the Cape Town Airport.
WILD INITIATIVES
The farm prioritizes organic farming methods, utilizing natural pest control, composting, and crop rotation to maintain soil health and reduce environmental impact. Efficient water management is also crucial, with advanced irrigation systems and rainwater harvesting in place to conserve water in this drought-prone region. Renewable energy plays a significant role, with solar panels providing clean energy for various operations, thereby lowering the farm's carbon footprint. Biodiversity is actively preserved and enhanced, with extensive gardens home to a variety of plant species that attract beneficial insects and birds, creating a balanced ecosystem. Effective waste management practices, including recycling, composting organic waste, and reducing single-use plastics, further minimize the farm's environmental impact. The hospitality offerings at Babylonstoren, including the hotel and restaurants, emphasize sustainability by sourcing ingredients directly from the farm, reducing food miles, and implementing eco-friendly practices. Additionally, Babylonstoren is dedicated to educating visitors and the local community about sustainable farming and living through workshops, tours, and interactive experiences. The conservation of historical buildings and cultural heritage also forms a core part of the farm's sustainability ethos, ensuring that its historical significance is preserved for future generations.
*Images property of Babylonstoren Hotel