If you are seeking more than just wine, discover this enchanted escape.
Babylonstoren, a 200-hectare farm established in 1692 in the Drakenstein Valley of the Cape Winelands, is a haven meticulously curated by owner Karen Roos. The luxury of this setting lies in its authenticity and integrity.
Featuring a chic hotel, a 3.5-hectare garden supplying three restaurants and a serene spa, a modern wine-tasting facility, a boathouse with a rowboat, winding dirt roads, and an overall sense of peace, Babylonstoren offers a multifaceted experience.
Here are 15 reasons to visit Babylonstoren today:
Babylonstoren stands out as one of the most beautiful destinations globally, offering a plethora of reasons to visit. From the breathtaking gardens and orchards to the award-winning wine estate and dining options, Babylonstoren caters to all tastes. With charming cottages and luxurious suites, it provides the ideal setting to unwind and escape the daily hustle and bustle. For a distinctive and memorable travel experience, be sure to include Babylonstoren in your itinerary!
Address: Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670
Opening Hours: Daily 9am – 5pm
Phone: 021 863 3852
1. Embark on your journey at the Babylonstoren Garden
Image Credit: Paarl Wellington
The heart of Babylonstoren is its garden, spanning 3.5 hectares surrounded by fruit and vegetable orchards.
The garden is divided into 15 clusters, each featuring various elements like vegetables, fruits, herbs, and more, all grown organically and sustainably. Water from a stream flows through the garden, nurturing a variety of plants and creating a serene atmosphere.
With over 300 edible or medicinally valuable plant varieties, the garden supplies the farm-to-fork restaurants with fresh produce year-round. The garden’s natural stream supports indigenous flora, including wild olives, while the blooming clivia lilies add a burst of color each spring.
2. Indulge in a stay at the Babylonstoren Farm Hotel
Image Credit: Wetu.com
Nestled in a historic 9-acre garden, the Babylonstoren Hotel offers a luxurious retreat in the Simondium area of the Cape Winelands.
Combining luxury with a rural charm, the Babylonstoren Hotel boasts elegant guest rooms converted from original farm buildings. The hotel features nine one-bedroom suites, each with access to an outdoor pool and a spa. The tranquil ambiance is enhanced by facilities like a salt room, vitality pool, and sauna. The rustic yet elegant character of Babylonstoren farmhouse hotel is accentuated by white-washed walls.
Address: Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670
Check-in: From 14h00
3. Unwind at the Babylonstoren Garden Spa
Image Credit: Xpose3d.com
The Garden Spa at Babylonstoren is intricately connected to the garden and its seasonal changes, creating a unique, living spa experience. Set in a bamboo grove with lush greenery and leiwater channels, the spa features a bamboo pavilion housing amenities like a hammam, chill room, hot spa, and gym.
Address: Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670
Opening Hours: Daily 9am – 6pm
Phone: 021 300 3929
4. Experience an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tour
Embark on a new olive oil tour at Babylonstoren, starting with a visit to the balsamic vinegar cellar to learn about traditional production methods. Guests can sample aged vinegars before heading outside to explore the farm’s history. Reservations are required.
Duration: 11h00, 13h00, or 15h00 (60 min)
Cost: R200 per person (includes tasting)
5. Indulge in delectable treats at the Babylonstoren Bakery
Image Credit: Babylonstoren Website
The Babylonstoren Bakery not only offers delicious evening meals but also supplies freshly baked bread to the shop. Savor a family-style meal of artisanal bread, cheeses, and meats at Bakery dinners, served with antipasti, salads, and delectable desserts.
Italian-inspired evenings: Mondays and Fridays, R420 per adult, R200 per child
Carnivore evenings: Wednesdays, R650 per adult, R200 per child (Starts at 18:30)
6. Dine at Babel at Babylonstoren
Image Credit: Paarl Wellington
Babel Restaurant, housed in a historic cow shed, offers a blend of Cape Dutch architecture and contemporary design. Enjoy farm-to-fork dishes in a simple yet stylish setting that reflects Babylonstoren’s ethos of seasonal, fresh cuisine.
Address: Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670
Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 8:30pm
Phone: 021 863 3852
7. Experience an authentic hammam at the New Hot Spa
The new Hot Spa at Babylonstoren includes a range of facilities like an indoor pool, sauna, salt room, and vitality pools. Experience traditional treatments like a hammam in a luxurious setting.
8. Visit the Greenhouse Restaurant
Image Credit: dominiqueinthecity.com
Enjoy a delightful meal at the Greenhouse Restaurant, situated at the back of the Babylonstoren garden. Indulge in a range of snacks and meals, surrounded by the beauty of the garden.
Address: Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670
Opening Hours: Daily 9am – 6pm (summer), 5pm (winter)
Phone: 021 863 3852
9. Hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram
Image Credit: Capetown.citypass.co.za
Explore the wine farms and activities in the Franschhoek region aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram. This vintage-style railway system offers a unique way to discover the area’s wine estates, accompanied by knowledgeable guides.
Address: Corner of Main Road and, Cabriere St, Franschhoek, 7690
Opening Hours: Daily 9am – 5pm
Phone: 021 300 0338
Cost: Purple line R270
Bookings: Activitar.com
10. Delight in a variety of world-class teas
Discover the unique flavors of South African teas like Rooibos and Honeybush, made from indigenous fynbos plants, offering a distinct taste and aroma.
i. Rooibos tea
Experience the organic Rooibos Tea, known for its herbal, fruity flavor and crimson color. This caffeine-free, sugar-free tea is not only delicious but also offers various health benefits.
ii. Honeybush tea
Indulge in organic Honeybush Tea, featuring a herbal-floral flavor with a hint of sweetness. This caffeine-free, sugar-free tea is a soothing and aromatic choice for a healthy lifestyle.
11. Experience a range of flavors with Babylonstoren Wine Tasting
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