Babylonstoren
Winery Description
Location and History
Babylonstoren is situated at the foot of the Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley and is one of the oldest working Cape Dutch farms in South Africa. The farm boasts a historic farmyard with a fascinating history tied to its creation and development. The property's landscape is characterised by a garden of wonderment and diversity, set against the backdrop of the unique terroir and climate of the region. With vineyards adjoining luscious orchards, the farm provides an enriching glimpse into the local agricultural landscape. The working farm was opened by Karen Roos, and its commitment to excellence resonates throughout its operations. Featuring traditional Cape Dutch architecture and modern design elements, Babylonstoren exists as a space where history meets contemporary practices, showcasing a dedication to sustainability and community development.
Wine Tasting
At Babylonstoren, guests can enjoy an immersive wine tasting experience in the Tasting Room, which provides beautiful views overlooking the vineyards and iconic Babylonstoren hill. The winery cultivates 13 grape varieties, showcasing the rich diversity of the region. Beginning in 2011, Babylonstoren's wines reflect a unique connection to the earth and the philosophy of simplicity, with each varietal crafted to highlight the essence of its surroundings. Visitors have the opportunity to taste a wide array of wines including Viognier, Shiraz, and the Mourvèdre Rosé, which has gained international acclaim as the Official Rosé of the Chelsea Flower Show. A choice of delicious snack platters can be ordered while you taste your way through the range of wines. Guided cellar tours further enhance the experience, allowing guests to explore the winemaking process and appreciate the innovation behind the wine production. It includes a visit to the subterranean wine tunnel, offering guests a journey through centuries of making and storing wine, as well as a wine tasting with accompaniments from the farm that complement each wine.
Restaurant
The farm’s restaurants all celebrate and incorporate the garden’s seasonal bounty. A farm-to-fork philosophy is at the heart of the food offering, which means that seasonal food is served reflecting their “pick, clean and serve” approach. The menus are guided by what is available in the garden.
Babel Restaurant, situated in a refurbished old cowshed with Cape Dutch gables and modern glass walls, sets the perfect backdrop to savour these seasonal dishes. Fresh fruit and vegetables are harvested daily while the beef comes from the farm’s herd of pasture-reared Chianina cattle. The more relaxed Greenhouse Restaurant offers daytime fare where light, fresh meals can be enjoyed after a stroll through the garden.
The Old Bakery Restaurant is open for dinner and hosts Italian-inspired feasts and Carnivore Evenings on selected nights. The four-course family-style Italian Evening comprises grazing boards from the garden to start, authentic pasta as secondi, and wood-fired pizzas (served by the slice for as long as the fires are burning) for mains. Dolce is always something light and fresh from the farm, served with the farm’s water buffalo gelato. Carnivore Evenings are lively and cheerful with live accordion music, fine red wine and even a bit of dancing! The five-course meaty meal is served at long, communal tables laden with the finest meat in all forms and flavours.
Accommodation
Babylonstoren features an array of accommodation options catering to various preferences and group sizes. Guests can choose from luxurious Farmhouse suites, cosy Garden Cottages, Fynbos Cottages, or spacious Family Houses. Each suite is designed with a blend of comfort and elegance, offering amenities such as king-size beds, marble bathrooms, and cozy fireplaces. The Farmhouse, designed to reflect traditional elements, also houses a library with a unique butterfly collection. The interior design blends contemporary decor with historical aesthetics, enhancing the overall experience. Families can stay in specially designed two-bedroom cottages or the Family Houses that accommodate children, providing a relaxing retreat in a beautiful setting. Each accommodation option ensures guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while immersing themselves in nature. The secluded areas promote tranquility and a sense of well-being, making any stay a memorable one.
Tours and Activities
At Babylonstoren, visitors can engage in a multitude of activities designed to enhance their connection with the land. Guided garden tours provide insight into the rich botanical diversity of the estate, allowing guests to explore and taste the produce. Visitors can get a glimpse of farm operations through various experiences, such as olive oil blending, an interactive Story of Wine museum, or witnessing the essential oil distillery in the Scented Room. Apart from activities offered to day visitors, hotel guests can join daily guided farm walks up the Babylonstoren hill and through the orchards. They can cycle through the vineyards, enjoy bass fishing or canoeing, bake alongside the bakers, or join a guided drive up the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain.
The Garden Spa offers relaxation through various treatments performed in beautiful spaces, within a forest of bamboo. Additionally, workshops covering baking, needlework, gardening, and various artisan skills encourage guests to learn and connect with traditional practices. The interactive Soetmelksvlei farmyard experience allows visitors to step back to a simpler time and engage in historical farm activities. Moreover, the farm is a paradise for families, offering children a chance to participate in typical farm activities and explore nature. Through these experiences, Babylonstoren fosters an appreciation for the land, its produce, and the importance of sustainable practices for future generations.