Description
Babylonstoren is a perfect boutique farm hotel within vineyards and orchards in the Drakenstein Valley, between Franschoek and Stellenbosh.
The 14 cottages are found in stunningly converted 17th and 18th century Cape Dutch farm buildings
This small personalized property is ideal for families. Children can run free to explore the gardens, ride on the tractors, walk with the working ducks and collect their eggs. It’s a treasure chest of surprises; a maze, a lake with boats to a surprise water fountain.
Babylonstoren is also great for those with green fingers, with eight acres with over 300 varieties of plants creatively designed. Guests can even help with the harvesting should they so desire or gardeners can take guests on a guided visit of the garden. As well as this it is perfect for those who are keen on organically diverse menus – the seasonal fruit and vegetables are the foundation of the restaurant menu at Babel.
From Babylonstoren wander through the farm’s extensive fruit orchards and vineyards or accompany the duck herd as they wander through the farm harvesting snails. Alternatively borrow a bike and cycle through the vineyards, around the dams and koppie.
Accommodation
14 cottages in converted Cape Dutch farm buildings. There are 8 en-suite one bedroomed guest cottages and 4 en-suite two bedroomed guest cottages which are ideal for families. All the cottages have underfloor heating and most have fireplaces
For families or guests travelling in a small group, Babylonstoren’s historic Cape Dutch home, the five-bedroomed Manor House is available on request only on an exclusive use basis.
Childcare
Children are welcome but there are no specific facilities except babysitting which is available on request.
Attractions kids will love in the Winelands area include Bugz Play Park, the Franschhoek Motor Museum, Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens, the Stellenbosch Toy and Miniature Museum and for a chance to see some of South Africa's abundant wildlife, the Giraffe House, the Cheetah Outreach Facility and Eagle Encounters.
Facilities
Spa, gym, swimming pool.
Activities
Babylonstoren offers complimentary guided vineyard and garden walks and use of the spa facilities, gym. Spa treatments are charged additionally. Other activities in the local area golf, walking and hiking in the surrounding mountains, fly fishing, horse riding and hot air ballooning (only in the summer).
When to travel
This is a wonderful year-round destination, although bear in mind the reverse seasons in the southern hemisphere - you won’t be lying by the pool in June and July, though it will still be warm. Things can get extremely hot during their summer (December-March), with temperatures hovering around 40C.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
The Winelands, South Africa
Babylonstoren lies in the Drakenstein Valley between Franschhoek and Paarl. Surrounded by the Simonsberg, Du Toitskloof and Franschhoek Mountains, Babylonstoren is in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
How to get there
12 hour international flight to Cape Town International Airport. Babylonstoren is some 60km from the city of Cape Town and an easy 45 min drive from Cape Town International Airport. Transfers can be arranged by the hotel.
