In South Africa's Cape Town region, a historic plantation named Babylonstoren transports its visitors back to the 17th century, blending the old world's charm with the contemporary comforts of a world-class resort. Established in 1692, this unique destination has been meticulously preserved and developed over the centuries, offering an immersive experience that combines agriculture, gastronomy, winemaking, and hospitality in an exquisite setting.
The sprawling eight-acre farm boasts a mesmerizing variety of fruits, vegetables, indigenous plants, and livestock, along with a bustling bee community and a fascinating prickly pear maze. Located less than forty minutes away from Cape Town, Babylonstoren unveils a different facet of South Africa's Cape Winelands, known for their vineyards. Here, you can savor award-winning wines, farm-to-fork delicacies, and luxurious accommodation, all in one place!
**A Garden of Eatable Wonders**
The Babylonstoren estate is the brainchild of owner Karen Roos and renowned French architect Patrice Taravella, who started this project in 2007. Inspired by Taravella's work in the gardens of Prieuré Notre Dame d’Orsan in France, Roos envisioned a garden of eden filled with edible and medicinal plants.
The result is a breathtaking garden divided into fifteen sections, each with its unique offerings, from fragrant lawns and buzzing bees to friendly ducks and chickens. What's truly extraordinary about this garden is its 300 varieties of plants, all edible or with medicinal value, grown organically in the most sustainable way possible.
The garden's bounty is harvested year-round to supply Babylonstoren's two farm-to-fork restaurants, showcasing the freshest produce in every dish they serve.
**A Taste of Babylonstoren's Wine**
The estate also houses a world-class winery stretching over 178 acres, cultivating thirteen different grape varieties. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in daily tastings featuring five unique wines at a nominal price. If you're a fan of the Babylonstoren wines, consider joining the Babylonstoren Wine Club - a haven for wine lovers that delivers the best reds from the winter and the finest whites from the summer, twice a year.
**Farm-to-Fork Culinary Experience**
Babel Restaurant, situated in an old cowshed, offers a culinary experience that's both simple and sophisticated. The menu features classic favorites, artistically combined to create unexpected blends that linger in your memory.
The Greenhouse Restaurant, nestled at the back of the Babylonstoren garden, serves freshly baked cakes, coffee, tea, and juice, all prepared with the garden's fruits. Both restaurants strictly adhere to a farm-to-fork philosophy, ensuring that every ingredient used is perfectly ripe and in season.
**Revitalizing Spa Treatments**
The Garden Spa at Babylonstoren offers an assortment of treatments, from hydrating body wraps to bespoke facials and a Hammam experience. Fresh herbs like rosemary, lavender, and lemon thyme, picked daily from their gardens, are incorporated into the Spa’s rituals and its cleansing spa food menu.
The treatment rooms are housed in a bamboo pavilion, which also holds a hammam, relaxation room, and a gym. A visit to the Garden Spa promises a rejuvenating experience.of Eatable Wonders**
The Babylonstoren estate is the epitome of a garden paradise. Owned by Karen Roos and brought to life by renowned French architect Patrice Taravella, this enchanting garden is a sight to behold. With fifteen distinct sections, it showcases a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality. Here, you'll find a cornucopia of edible and medicinal plants, grown organically and sustainably. Every inch of the garden is a testament to nature's abundance and the artistry of cultivation.
As you stroll through the garden, you'll encounter a symphony of colors, scents, and textures. From vibrant vegetables and luscious fruits to aromatic herbs and delicate flowers, the diversity is awe-inspiring. And the best part? You can indulge in the garden's offerings. Taste the sweetness of a sun-ripened tomato, savor the tang of a freshly plucked herb, or enjoy the crispness of a just-picked apple. It's a true farm-to-fork experience, where every bite is a celebration of nature's bounty.
**Luxurious Accommodations**
When it's time to retire for the day, Babylonstoren offers luxurious accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the estate. The chic Farm Hotel features one- and two-bedroom cottages nestled beside the fruit and vegetable gardens. Each cottage is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring a lounge area, kitchenette, and bonus amenities like a cozy fireplace and a stocked library. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making you feel right at home in this idyllic setting.
For those seeking a more opulent experience, the Farmhouse boasts nine one-bedroom suites. Here, you'll find an outdoor swimming pool and a spa area complete with a salt room and a sauna. The suites are elegantly appointed, offering a tranquil retreat where you can unwind and rejuvenate.
If you're planning a special event or traveling with a group, The Owner's House is a magnificent option. Dating back to 1777, this stunning property features five bedrooms that can accommodate up to ten guests. With its old-world charm and impressive architecture, The Owner's House is the epitome of luxury and refinement.
**A Dream Destination**
Babylonstoren is more than just a destination; it's a dream brought to life. From the enchanting gardens to the world-class wines, the farm-to-fork culinary experiences to the rejuvenating spa treatments, every aspect of this paradise is designed to delight and inspire. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a gastronomic adventure, or simply a place to unwind and reconnect with nature, Babylonstoren offers an experience that is truly unforgettable.
So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Babylonstoren, where history, gastronomy, and natural beauty intertwine. Lose yourself in the garden's splendor, savor the flavors of the land, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this breathtaking estate. Babylonstoren is waiting to enchant you with its timeless charm and unforgettable experiences.
Contact Details:
Website: www.babylonstoren.com
Email: info@babylonstoren.com
Phone: +27 (0)21 863 3852
Location:
Babylonstoren is located at:
Klapmuts - Simondium Road,
Franschhoek Valley,
Western Cape,
South Africa.